Press room

The digital book has yet to take off in France (only 1% of the market share), whereas it represents 15% of book sales in the U.S. and 10% in Britain. Therefore, each of the actors in the book chain must take measures to better anticipate the consequences for the financing of books and the ways in which to read books in this ongoing transformation. 

In these three exclusive policy briefs, the Centre d’analyse stratégique suggests the following to develop the digital book while preserving the value of the book chain and the French editorial diversity:

• More attractive prices: consumers want a strong discount compared to paper books. A balance must be found between a low price that enhances the attractiveness of the digital book and the need to economically preserve the book sector.

• Better rationalization of  distribution: Three French distribution platforms exist at the moment. This can be confusing for booksellers and readers, which helps Amazon sine it currently has the most extensive assortment. A unique platform for distribution should be created.

• True interoperability: digital books should be available on all reading devices.

• The booksellers are now in a fragile situation that prevents them from making the change towards the digital book. One objective should be to support the policy of a multi-channel strategy: traditional bookstores selling in stores and on the web in order to prevent the web giants to steal costumers.

• Authors should have confidence in the digital marketplace. A change in copyright agreements specifying the terms for digital exploitation should be considered.

Finally, the Centre d’analyse stratégique has also included a reflection on the library in the digital age.

Press Contacts:

Jean-Michel Roullé, Head of Communications
jean-michel.roulle@strategie.gouv.fr
Tél. : +33 (0)1 42 75 61 37

Jonathan Lorrillard, Communications Officer
jonathan.lorrillard@strategie.gouv.fr
Tél. : +33 (0)1 42 75 60 39