Bonnier Books UK won in two categories at this year’s Independent Publishers Guild’s Independent Publishing Awards.
The company was recognised for its inclusion and representation initiatives with the Alison Morrison Diversity and Inclusivity Award. Just minutes later, the team were called to the stage once more to receive the Zebralution Audio Award (shared alongside Belle Media Books) for the acclaimed audiobook of Minnie Driver’s Managing Expectations.
Rik Ubhi, editorial director of Heligo Press – the new business and smart-thinking cited by the judges as one of the company’s key I&R achievements of the last twelve months – addressed the audience to say: “Thanks to the IPG for this award and for its commitment to highlighting these issues. Publishing is for everyone, and that promise has to lie at the heart of everything we do. I’m so proud of Bonnier Books UK as we work to spotlight new voices, reach underserved audiences, and push for genuine inclusion and representation both within the company and within the sector. But this is an industry-wide effort – and I want to pay tribute to the other companies on this shortlist and in this room for the work being done as we make progress together and strive to open doors and broaden perspectives.”
Laura Makela, head of audio at the Zaffre Publishing Group added: “It’s not every audiobook that you find yourself working with an Oscar-nominee, and we were so lucky to have an author this engaged and committed to bringing her story to life with such skill and gusto. Al Pacino impressions and all… Audio is booming. And when you look at the incredible range of work on this shortlist, you can see why.”
The awards took place at the OXO Tower on London’s Southbank, hosted by Piccadilly Press author Konnie Huq.
Bonnier Books UK became a member of the Independent Publishers Guild in 2022.
