The Bookseller.com

25th July 2008

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'Strict' embargo for R&J titles

07.12.07 Anna Richardson

"Richard & Judy" organisers have set a strict industry-wide on-sale date for next year's 10 Book Club titles, after retailers failed to release the line-up on the same day last year.

Retailers across the board have agreed on 27th December—almost two weeks before the first Book Club title is reviewed. The date also marks the start of the national Channel 4 publicity campaign to promote the titles.

R&J marketer Alastair Giles confirmed that on-sale dates varied among retailers last year. "We were probably not strict enough on when they could start [selling the titles]".

Last year's confusion is said to have stemmed from supermarket stock change requirements, which meant that books were in store in supermarkets earlier than other outlets. But Giles stressed that this year's move was to ensure the "best mutual date for everyone". All retailers, including the supermarkets, "came up with the most sensible date".

"Richard & Judy" returns to Channel 4 on 7th January. The first Book Club title will be reviewed on 9th January.

Media Anna Richardson richard and judy