Regency Media – Australasia’s 50-year-old, locally owned electronic media manufacturing, distribution and licensing business – has announced its acquisition of publisher, Five Mile, and its entry into Australian book publishing.
Under Regency Media ownership, Five Mile will continue the strategic course set by Tash Besliev, Niki Horin and Jade Wood, who will be joined by Laurance Wilson (sales), Amy Freund (editorial), Andy Warren (design) and James Blackman (production).
The start-up list for this new iteration of Five Mile includes long-standing brand partners: The Wiggles, ABC Kids, Octonauts, Miraculous and others. The publisher will also continue its programs with key creators Trace Moroney and Sally Rippin.
“I’m excited to be entering publishing at this point. Having been through similar challenges the industry faces in the Home Entertainment Industry, I hope we can make some significant change in books,” says Fiona Horman, founder and managing director of Regency Media.
“Five Mile is a big part of Australian publishing history,” says Besliev, “and an important part of its future. Publishers like Five Mile are essential to keep our industry connected to all audiences. Our commitment to publishing relevant, accessible and affordable content is unwavering.”
Five Mile, its brand partners and key creators would like to thank retailer partners across the ANZ book industry for their ongoing support.
“The Wiggles are delighted that Regency Media have acquired Five Mile which will ensure the ongoing publication of entertaining and educative content for The Wiggles pre-school audience,” says Paul Field, Managing Director of The Wiggles.
“I am extremely excited and honoured to be considered part of the most progressive, passionate, professional and dynamic publishing team ever known,” says best-selling author/illustrator, Trace Moroney.
“I’m looking forward to continuing my relationship with the Five Mile team,” says best-selling author Sally Rippin.
The publisher commences trading from today and is based in new offices in Fitzroy, Victoria.
