Resilient Print Revenues in Open Access Book Publishing Amid Digital Growth

ROCKVILLE, MD — January 16, 2025 — The latest report from Simba Information, Open Access Book Publishing 2024-2028, offers an in-depth analysis of the evolving open-access (OA) publishing landscape. The study highlights a surprising trend: despite the digital-first nature of OA models, print sales of open-access titles have remained robust, defying traditional assumptions about their viability in a digital-dominated market.

Key insights into open access and print sales:

• Revenue from print: Open-access monographs generated an average of $17,000 in revenue, with print sales accounting for the majority. Approximately 30% of titles reviewed earned more than $10,000, underscoring the continued financial importance of print alongside digital distribution.
• Sustainable funding models: Mixed revenue streams—including book processing charges (BPCs), library member fees, grants, and institutional support—have enabled publishers to stabilize their OA initiatives.
• Market growth: The open-access book market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8%, reaching $127 million by 2028. While output dipped from 18,000 titles in 2022 to 14,300 in 2023, the market’s long-term trajectory remains positive.

The findings presented in Open Access Book Publishing 2024-2028 by Simba Information underscore the financial viability of print within the open-access model while shedding light on the factors driving its continued success.

“This trend reflects the complex ways open-access publishing intersects with traditional book markets,” said Martha Scharping, a research analyst at Simba Information. “Print remains a critical component of academic publishing, even as digital formats transform access and dissemination.”

The enduring relevance of print editions in an increasingly digital landscape can be attributed to several interconnected dynamics. Enhanced visibility through open-access availability significantly boosts demand, particularly within academic and institutional contexts. Additionally, the preferences of scholars, established institutional practices, and innovative approaches such as print-on-demand collectively reinforce the value and appeal of physical copies.

Together, these elements, as detailed in the Simba Information report, illustrate how print and digital formats coexist and complement one another in the evolving academic publishing ecosystem. As funding models adapt and digital tools expand accessibility, print's continued presence highlights the importance of hybrid strategies in sustaining scholarly communication.

About Simba Information

Simba Information, a part of The Freedonia Group, is widely recognized as the authoritative source for market intelligence in the media and publishing industries. The company’s extensive information network delivers thoughtful, objective perspectives on the people, events and alliances shaping the industry. In addition, Simba Information assists clients and the press with analysis of publishing and media industry trends. Reports can be purchased at freedoniagroup.com/simba-information.

Media Contact: [email protected]
Report Purchases: [email protected]