Bonnier Books acquires 45% of Strawberry Publishing in Norway

Bonnier Books acquires 45% of the Norwegian book publisher Strawberry Publishing AS, which will continue to operate under the Strawberry Publishing brand.

In November 2020, Bonnier Books announced the acquisition of 70% of Strawberry Publishing AS. The Norwegian competition authority had objections to the acquisition. The parties have chosen to change the ownership distribution so that Bonnier Books now becomes a minority owner. Strawberry Publishing AS consists of the publishers Strawberry Publishing and Bastion Forlag, both of which operate in the Norwegian book market in the genres of fiction, non-fiction and children’s and youth literature.

─ Publishing is about working with the best authors and publishing fantastic books. To do it in the best possible way, peace and quiet is needed, so when it proved difficult to get a majority ownership of Strawberry Publishing approved, we have instead agreed on this minority solution, says Håkan Rudels, CEO of Bonnier Books.

─ The book industry is undergoing major changes and operating in that terrain, it suits us perfectly to be fast and offensive, while we prepare for a digital future. Bonnier Books is our dream partner ─ they have the weight, history, and publishing muscles we need to continue our growth and compete in the Norwegian book industry, says Petter Stordalen, co-owner of Strawberry Publishing.