What is the Future of Regional Cookboks Part 2.

In my last post I outlined the three major challenges going on in the world of publishing. Today let's take the first issue, consolidation of the brick and mortar bookstores--only one national chain, and discuss it.

Yes it is true that there is only one national brick and mortar outlet for books. Despite this fact the only limitation to your opportunities for sales outlets is between your ears. One of the great features of publishing a "community" cookbook is involving partners within the community in a variety of ways.

Many organizations have had great success in soliciting non-bookstore businesses to stock and sell their books. From Wright's Gourmet House in Tampa to Get a Grip Tennis in Pensacola there are a ton of retail businesses willing to support your worthy cause or book if approached properly. We all know that "placement" is one of the 4 P's of a successful marketing effort so put the proper amount of time and effort into identifying these key retailers that can partner with you and make it easy for your customers to buy your book.

In addition to local retailers it is also imperative today to have your book available online. Do you have a dedicated web site for your book? Can your customer's order the book from your site or at least be directed to Amazon.com or CookbookMarketplace.com? Is there an e-pub version available through Amazon, B & ;N, Kobo or Apple?

Each opportunity for maximum placement must be worked and kept up with from an initial sales call to regular customer service. How much attention have you given to the subject of placement for your book?