WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12
registration desk & exhibits open at 8:00am
join us for coffee & pastries with exhibitors from 8:00am-9:00am

#PubWest2025

9:00am-10:15am

Welcome and Scholarship Presentation

Keynote Presentation: Financial Strategies and Safeguards through Data and Digital Optimization in Today’s Publishing Landscape

Join Amy Barrett-Daffin (C&T Publishing) as she leads an invigorating discussion with Mary McAveney (CEO of Abrams Books). We'll talk about smart forecasting, strategic methods of calculating print runs and balancing inventory, addressing cash flow, coping with cyber security, and finally, innovative ways to make your business pay. Mary's diverse background in marketing, data analysis, and strategic planning will help us all expand our publishing worldview.

10:15am-10:45am

Take a Brief Break 

Concurrent Workshops

Maximizing Efficiency and Profitability in Book Publishing

Are you looking to optimize your financial strategies, enhance operational efficiencies, and ensure the long-term success of their publishing business? Then join this session moderated by Tom Helleberg (Mountaineering Press)!

• Workflow Efficiencies: Hear about outside-the-box ways to rethink your procedures to improve finances.

• Print Buying: Understand the intricacies of print buying and strategies to avoid leaving money on the floor of the warehouse. This segment will cover cost-effective print strategies and inventory management practices.

• Distribution: Explore efficient distribution methods that ensure timely delivery and cost savings. Discover how to streamline distribution channels to maximize reach while minimizing expenses.

• Financial Connections: Learn how to link the title budget to the overall income statement. This part of the session will provide practical examples and techniques to align budgeting processes with financial goals and performance metrics.

Finance for Non-Finance People: Understanding the Income Statement
Are you looking to get a better handle on your company's finances without getting bogged down by complex financial jargon? Join Victoria Sutherland (Foreword Reviews) as she moderates this comprehensive session designed specifically for non-finance professionals in the publishing industry. In this session, you will learn how to:

• Break Down the Income Statement: Gain a clear understanding of the key components of an income statement and how they relate to your publishing business. 

• Understand your Operating Expenses: Discover what constitutes operating expenses and how to manage them effectively to improve your bottom line.

• Learn about Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Learn how to calculate and control COGS, including costs related to printing, binding, and distribution.

• Identify the Significance of Sales & Marketing Expenses: Understand the significance of sales and marketing expenses and how to allocate your budget efficiently to maximize returns.

11:45am-12:00pm

Rittenhouse presentation

Lunch with Exhibitors

1:30pm-2:45pm

Concurrent Workshops

Print On Demand vs. Offset Printing: Which Wins?
Join us for an insightful dueling discussion as we delve into the key factors influencing cost structures in book printing. Our experts will compare the flexibility and scalability of print on demand with the efficiency and volume benefits of offset printing. Learn about the impact of each method on production costs, turnaround times, and quality control as you get tools to make informed decisions and optimize your printing strategies. Moderated by the Executive Director of BMI, Matt Baehr. 

University Press Listening Party
Academic and university press members (past, present, and future) gather for an hour of conversation about the perspectives and needs of this unique group. Moderated by Jane Ferreyra (University of Nebraska Press), and Leigh McDonald (University of Arizona Press).

2:45pm-3:00pm

Take a break and connect with our exhibitors!

Concurrent Workshops

Mastering Cash Flow Management for Book Publishers
Understanding and managing cash flow is crucial for the success and stability of any publishing business. This session is designed to equip book publishers with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain a healthy cash position. Moderated by David Hetherington (Books International).

In this session, you will learn:

• Cash vs. Accrual Accounting: Explore the differences between cash and accrual accounting methods. Understand how each method impacts your financial reporting and decision-making processes. Learn which method is best suited for your business and how to transition if necessary.
  
  
• Maintaining a Healthy Cash Position: Discover practical strategies to ensure your publishing business always has sufficient cash on hand. We'll cover techniques for managing receivables and payables, optimizing inventory levels, and planning for seasonal fluctuations in cash flow.

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Innovative Financing Strategies for Book Publishers
In the evolving landscape of book publishing, finding new and innovative ways to finance your projects is crucial for success. This session will explore creative financing options beyond traditional methods and crowdfunding/fan-based financial models. 

Whether you're a small independent publisher or a larger entity looking for new funding avenues, you will gain practical knowledge and hear about real-world examples of how innovative financing can propel your publishing projects to new heights. Moderated by Leah Hernandez (Muse Press).

Speedy Spiels On: The Best Dollar You Ever Spent
8 Speakers, 5 minutes each, speaking to the topic: THE BEST DOLLAR YOU EVER SPENT, anyhow, any way they choose. The perennial conference favorite Speedy Spiels is back to share innovative ideas on how to save money and increase profits. Moderated by Jane Ferreyra (University of Nebraska Press).

4:45pm-5:15pm

Book Design Awards Presentation