A Worcester-based small presser has reached the regional final of an industry award, with a potential national accolade also in the offing.
3dtotal Publishing has been shortlisted in the Midlands category of the British Book Awards 2024 Small Press of the Year.
The small presser stands alongside 54 other independents competing within nine geographical regions across both the UK and Ireland.
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The small presses, each with a turnover of less than £5 million, initially compete for the regional crown, followed by the overall prize, which will be presented at the British Book Awards ceremony.
Taking place on Monday, May 13, the awards ceremony is set to be held at Grosvenor House in London.
The awards, sponsored by CPI Books, celebrate independent presses distinguished for their innovative publishing during a time of rising costs and economic instability.
3dtotal Publishing joins the elite list of finalists for the first time, which also includes past winners Jacaranda Books Art Music and Magic Cat Publishing, and 2021 Overall Winner Sweet Cherry.
Philip Jones, editor of The Bookseller and chair of the judges, said, "I’m always incredibly happy to see the breadth of Small Press publishing across the UK and Ireland.
"These presses have ridden out the pandemic peaks and troughs, and have emerged into the new age stronger than ever with some first-class publishing backed by an acute understanding of who they are and how to find their customers.
He added: "The vast majority of publishers on this shortlist reported list and sales growth, alongside many successful funding applications, with investment put into both authors and their businesses.
"Publishing remains in safe hands – many of them.”
In response to the announcement, CPI Books managing director Tanya Dunbar said: "CPI is proud to sponsor the Small Press award again this year.
"The small publishers are an essential and creative part of the publishing ecosystem, and we are delighted to be part of their continuing success story."
The regional winners of the Small Press of the Year award will be announced on Monday, March 11.
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