About
Find out key information about the 2026 Marketing & Publicity Conference.
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What is M&P?
The Bookseller’s annual Marketing & Publicity Conference, fondly known as M&P, is a one day conference for marketing and publicity professionals throughout the publishing industry. Consisting of talks, panels and surgeries on everything from brands to bookshops, events to AI. Industry experts from the world of books and outside the industry gather to share their expertise and opinions on the sector’s most pressing topics.
Who is M&P for?
Whether you are just starting out in publishing or a director at a big five publisher, M&P offers unique and tailored training for all marketing and publicity professionals working across the book trade. From campaigns assistants, marketing executives to publicity directors and head of comms - M&P is the place to be for everyone working in comms roles.
You'll leave feeling re-energised and refocused, equipped with actionable takeaways to create smarter campaigns.
When is M&P?
M&P 2026 will be held at Southbank Centre, Waterloo on Monday 29th June. The conference is also livestreamed online for those who are not able to attend in person. All ticket holders will receive on demand access to the conference talks and panels for three months post event to enjoy at your leisure.
Why should I attend?
M&P is the only conference which is especially curated for marketing and publicity professionals within publishing. It creates an exclusive space to share ideas and create solutions for the industry’s most pressing topics from new markets to media, audience expectations to AI.
By taking just one day away from your desk, you will forge new connections and deepen existing bonds with colleagues spanning the sector thanks to our networking breaks and drinks reception.
Gain insights from leading industry experts through expertly curated panels, case studies and talks and participate in Q&As to specifically enhance your skills and empower you to apply new strategies effectively.
M&P’s purpose is to support and empower marketers and publicists so that after the conference you leave empowered with actionable tools to improve your work.
Our Indie Scheme
At The Bookseller, we recognise the vital role that independent voices, such as small press, charities, festivals, libraries and booksellers, play in shaping our industry. That’s why we offer an exclusive discounted rate available to small press and independent organisations working in comms roles.
In addition, we work with the Bookseller’s Association and The Reading Agency to help booksellers and librarians take a day away to contribute their unique findings to the conference.
We value the work independent companies do and believe their attendance at the conference is vital because they:
Lead with Passion
Creating meaningful, high-quality campaigns. We want to amplify their work through smarter marketing and publicity strategies.
Utilise Cost-Effective, Impactful Marketing
Leaner budgets encourage a more strategic and creative approach. At M&P, delegates learn practical, results-driven tactics to maximise efforts without breaking the bank.
Help Shape Industry Trends
With innovative grassroots approaches their insights are crucial to the broader conversation of pushing the industry forward.
Deserve Access to the Best Publicity Tools & Insights
At a smaller company employees wear many hats, so we want to ensure they have access to cutting-edge marketing techniques, digital strategies, and PR insights to level the playing field.
To discuss an indie rate please contact gaby.pitts@thebookseller.com
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Support marketing & publicity throughout the book trade by sponsoring M&P.
If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, and wish to see our media pack, please contact gaby.pitts@thebookseller.com.
