The publishing industry in Washington showcases a vibrant mix of companies driven by innovation and creativity. This sector includes everything from traditional book publishers to digital platforms and self-publishing services. Many companies focus on specialized markets, crafting unique offerings like educational materials, children's books, or genre fiction. Interestingly, the rise of e-books and audiobooks has appreciably changed the distribution models. With technology at their fingertips, businesses in Washington are increasingly using digital channels to reach global audiences, shaping the future of reading and engagement.

The listed companies feature a blend of sizes, from small teams to sizable enterprises, mostly headquartered in Seattle. Ranging from those founded in 1901 to as recently as 2014, these companies focus on various niches like self-publishing, hybrid models, and direct sales. Notably, firms like Kindle Direct Publishing and Sasquatch Books illustrate the spectrum of services, catering to different authors and audiences while contributing to a rich local culture.

Continue reading to explore the top publishing companies in Washington.

Top 19 Publishing Companies Companies in Washington

1. Kindle Direct Publishing

• Website: kdp.amazon.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 51%, India 12%, Brazil 6%, Other 31%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kindle-direct-publishing

Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), founded in 2007 and based in Seattle, Washington, is a self-publishing platform owned by Amazon. It enables authors to publish and distribute their books in both digital and print formats, reaching millions of readers worldwide. KDP offers authors the ability to retain control over their content, design, pricing, and marketing strategies. The platform supports various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children's books, and allows for the publication of serialized stories through Kindle Vella. KDP authors can earn royalties of up to 70% on eBook sales and up to 60% on print books, with additional earnings available through Kindle Unlimited. The platform has become a vital resource for independent authors seeking to establish their presence in the publishing industry without the constraints of traditional publishing houses.

2. Sasquatch Books

• Website: sasquatchbooks.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sasquatch-books

Sasquatch Books, based in Seattle, Washington, has been a prominent book publisher since its inception in 1986. The company specializes in a range of genres, including children's literature, food, gardening, and nature, among others. With a team of 28 employees, Sasquatch Books is dedicated to showcasing the talents of local authors, artists, and chefs, particularly those from the Pacific Northwest. Their children's imprint, Little Bigfoot, focuses on creating engaging and beautifully illustrated books for young readers. Sasquatch Books also operates the Spruce Books imprint, which produces visually appealing journals and workbooks aimed at fostering self-knowledge and emotional intelligence. The company is committed to community engagement, supporting local bookstores and organizations that promote literacy and reading culture. Their titles are distributed through Penguin Random House Publisher Services, ensuring a broad reach for their publications.

3. becker&mayer!

• Website: quartoknows.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bellevue, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: becker%26mayer

becker&mayer! is a publishing company based in Bellevue, Washington, and has been operational since 1978. It is part of The Quarto Group, which specializes in a wide range of books across various genres, including arts, crafts, cooking, and children's literature. The company serves consumers, educators, and organizations by providing quality reading materials and educational resources. Operating through multiple imprints, becker&mayer! offers both physical and digital products, ensuring accessibility to a broad audience. Their catalog includes innovative and engaging titles that appeal to different age groups and interests, reflecting their commitment to fostering creativity and learning. With a workforce of around 19 employees, becker&mayer! maintains a focused approach to publishing, emphasizing quality and relevance in their offerings.

4. Girl Friday Productions

• Website: girlfridayproductions.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: girl-friday-productions

Girl Friday Productions is a private publishing company based in Seattle, Washington, founded in 2006. The firm specializes in hybrid and custom publishing services, providing a full suite of offerings that include editing, design, marketing, and distribution. With a team of experienced professionals, Girl Friday Productions supports authors in bringing their works to market effectively. The company has produced thousands of books, many of which have achieved bestseller status and received industry awards. They pride themselves on fostering strong relationships with their clients, ensuring that authors have control over their projects while receiving expert guidance. As a majority women-owned business, they emphasize values such as innovation, representation, and community engagement, actively participating in initiatives that support local organizations and promote diverse voices in literature.

5. Booktrope

• Website: booktrope.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Angel), $1.2M, April 2015
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: booktrope

Booktrope, founded in 2010 and based in Seattle, Washington, is a publishing company that specializes in a collaborative model for book production. The company offers a range of titles across various genres, including fiction, self-help, and history. Booktrope's approach allows authors to engage directly with a team of professionals, including editors and marketers, to enhance the quality and reach of their publications. They provide downloadable PDF versions of their books, catering to readers who seek both entertainment and personal development resources. Booktrope received $1.2 million in funding in 2015, which indicates initial investor interest in their model. However, the company has not reported any significant developments or funding since then, which may impact its standing in the competitive publishing industry.

6. Blurb

• Website: blurb.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%, Australia 5%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), July 2014
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: blurb

Blurb, founded in 2004 and based in Seattle, Washington, is a self-publishing platform that empowers creators to design, print, and distribute books, magazines, and other printed materials. The company offers a range of products, including photo books, trade books, magazines, and notebooks, catering to authors, photographers, and small businesses. Blurb provides various design tools, such as BookWright and plugins for Adobe software, allowing users to create high-quality, customizable publications. The platform also facilitates global distribution through its own bookstore, Amazon, and Ingram, enabling creators to reach a wide audience. Blurb's focus on print-on-demand services minimizes upfront costs and inventory risks, making it an attractive option for independent authors and small publishers. With a workforce of around 181 employees, Blurb continues to play a significant role in the self-publishing industry, offering resources and support to help creators bring their visions to life.

7. Redemption Press

• Website: redemption-press.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Enumclaw, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Canada 10%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: redemption-press

Redemption Press, founded in 2014 and based in Enumclaw, Washington, is a private hybrid publishing company dedicated to serving Christian authors. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including manuscript reviews, coaching, and marketing strategies, aimed at empowering authors to publish their works while retaining creative control. With a team of around 31 employees, Redemption Press emphasizes a collaborative approach, treating authors as partners in the publishing process. They have developed a community-oriented platform, including Redemption Press University, which provides educational resources and coaching for aspiring and established writers. The company has published numerous books and has a growing reputation within the Christian publishing niche, focusing on quality and author satisfaction.

8. Shelf Awareness

• Website: shelf-awareness.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: shelf-awareness

Shelf Awareness is a private company based in Seattle, Washington, founded in 2005. It operates as a newsletter service that delivers curated book reviews and industry news to both readers and book trade professionals. The company offers two distinct e-newsletters: one for general readers, which highlights the best new book releases each week, and another for book trade professionals, providing daily insights and updates. With a team of around 33 employees, Shelf Awareness has established itself as a key resource for discovering new titles and staying informed about the book industry. The service is received by over 690,000 readers, including customers from numerous partner bookstores across the United States. This extensive reach underscores its influence in the book market, despite not being a traditional publishing house.

9. Libro.fm

• Website: libro.fm
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: libro.fm

Libro.fm, founded in 2013 and based in Seattle, Washington, is an audiobook retailer that offers a wide selection of digital audiobooks. The company operates on a membership model, allowing customers to purchase audiobooks either through a subscription or as individual purchases. This flexibility enhances the listening experience across various devices. Notably, Libro.fm distinguishes itself by supporting independent bookstores, enabling customers to choose a local bookstore to benefit from their purchases. This initiative not only promotes local businesses but also fosters a sense of community among readers and listeners. As a Social Purpose Corporation, Libro.fm is committed to balancing social and financial goals, which is reflected in their operations and partnerships with over 3,000 bookstores. Their platform features curated recommendations from booksellers, playlists, and a wide array of genres, catering to a broad audience. With a focus on customer experience and community support, Libro.fm is actively involved in the audiobook industry, making it a relevant player in the publishing sector.

10. Bluefire Productions

• Website: bluefirereader.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bluefire-productions

Bluefire Productions, LLC, founded in 1999 and based in Seattle, Washington, is a private company that specializes in digital publishing solutions. With a team of 11-50 employees, Bluefire focuses on software development for ebook distribution and reading technologies. Their flagship products, Bluefire Reader and Cloudshelf Reader, serve businesses and institutions in the publishing and education sectors, providing mobile applications, cloud services, and content protection solutions. Bluefire has licensed its technologies to over 120 organizations across 30 countries, including notable names like Adobe and Penguin Random House. The company is also a co-founder of the Readium Foundation, which promotes open-source software for digital publishing. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their development of accessible EPUB3 digital publications that support multimedia content. Bluefire Productions aims to empower organizations to leverage digital reading technologies, making them a relevant player in the publishing industry.

11. WendyLynn & Co.

• Website: wendylynn.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 24%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: wendylynn-%26-co.

WendyLynn & Co. is an illustration agency based in Seattle, Washington, established in 2002. The company specializes in children's book illustrations, representing a range of illustrators who provide high-quality artwork for publishers and authors. With a focus on enhancing the visual storytelling experience, WendyLynn & Co. connects clients with skilled artists, ensuring that the illustrations resonate with young readers. The agency has built a reputation over its 22 years of operation, showcasing portfolios of various illustrators and their works. Although it does not engage in direct publishing, its role in the industry is significant, as it supports the creation of visually appealing children's literature. The agency operates with a small team, emphasizing personalized service and a curated selection of talent.

12. Pediment Publishing

• Website: pediment.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Battle Ground, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pediment-publishing

Pediment Publishing, based in Battle Ground, Washington, has been a family-owned entity since its inception in 1997. The company specializes in producing high-quality books and collectibles, including wall art and puzzles, with a particular focus on themes related to sports and history. Their product range caters to consumers who have a passion for these subjects, allowing them to celebrate their interests through beautifully crafted items. Pediment operates an online store, making it easy for customers to browse and purchase their offerings. Over the years, they have built a reputation for quality and customer service, as reflected in numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers. Their publications often highlight significant sports events and historical narratives, contributing to their niche in the publishing industry.

13. Trillium Publishing

• Website: trilliumpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Shoreline, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: trillium-publishing

Trillium Publishing, founded in 2003 and based in Shoreline, Washington, is an educational publishing company dedicated to developing instructional materials and curricula primarily for K-12 literacy and other subjects. With a team of 11-50 employees, they work closely with educational institutions and organizations to create engaging content that aims to improve learning outcomes. Their services include content development, editing, and instructional design, showcasing their expertise in enhancing educational strategies. Over the years, Trillium has expanded its focus beyond K-6 literacy to include K-12 literacy, math, social studies, science, and social-emotional learning, producing a variety of print and online materials. Their collaborative approach and commitment to long-term client support highlight their role as a valuable partner in the educational publishing industry.

14. HerCampus UW

• Website: hercampus.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Brazil 9%, Canada 9%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hercampus-uw

HerCampus UW, part of Her Campus Media, is a media company based in Seattle, Washington, that was founded in 2009. The company specializes in producing online content tailored for college students and young adults. They provide a wide range of articles and resources that cover various topics, including wellness, lifestyle, and college experiences. With a workforce of approximately 104 employees, HerCampus UW has established a significant presence in the digital publishing industry. The company operates a network of campus chapters across numerous universities, allowing them to engage directly with their target audience. This grassroots approach not only enhances their content's relatability but also fosters a community among college students. HerCampus UW's focus on creating content that resonates with young adults positions them as a relevant player in the publishing sector, particularly in the digital space.

15. Premier Media Group

• Website: premiermedia.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tacoma, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: premier-media-group_4

Premier Media Group, founded in 2001 and based in Tacoma, Washington, is a private media company that specializes in publishing lifestyle and business magazines. The company operates several notable publications, including '425 Magazine', 'South Sound Magazine', and 'Northwest Travel & Life'. These magazines are designed to serve local businesses and organizations, helping them enhance their brand visibility and connect with influential consumers in the South Sound and Eastside regions. With a dedicated team of around 30 professionals, Premier Media Group emphasizes editorial excellence and aims to foster organic growth for its partners. Their publications are well-regarded in their respective markets, with a focus on community engagement and storytelling that resonates with local audiences.

16. Sound Publishing, Inc.

• Website: soundpublishing.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Everett, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sound-publishing

Sound Publishing, Inc. is a family-owned media company based in Everett, Washington, founded in 1987. It operates as the largest community news organization in Washington State, with a portfolio that includes 43 publications across Washington and Alaska. The company serves a broad audience, reaching over 3.5 million digital viewers and distributing more than 392,000 newspapers each week. Sound Publishing is dedicated to providing reliable news and information, emphasizing the importance of independent journalism in fostering informed communities. In addition to its print publications, the company offers digital marketing solutions and commercial printing services, making it a comprehensive media agency. Their commitment to quality journalism is reflected in their numerous industry awards, including 121 accolades in 2022 alone. Sound Publishing also actively supports local businesses through marketing grants and initiatives, reinforcing its role as a vital community resource.

17. Everett Herald

• Website: heraldnet.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Everett, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2013
• Founded year: 1901
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-daily-herald-of-everett-washington

The Everett Herald, operating under the brand HeraldNet, is a news publisher based in Everett, Washington. Established in 1901, it has been a cornerstone of local journalism for over a century, providing residents and businesses in Everett and Snohomish County with timely news, sports updates, and community information. The company offers both print and digital subscriptions, ensuring accessibility to its content across various platforms. The Herald is part of Sound Publishing, which owns more than 40 newspaper titles in Washington state, and is a subsidiary of Black Press Ltd. This affiliation allows the Everett Herald to maintain a robust presence in the local media landscape while benefiting from the resources of a larger organization. The company is committed to supporting local journalism initiatives and engages with its audience through newsletters and community-focused reporting, reinforcing its role as a trusted source of information in the region.

18. Seattle magazine

• Website: seattlemag.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: seattle-mag

Seattle magazine is a private media outlet based in Seattle, Washington, founded in 1966. It specializes in publishing content that highlights the culture, food, and events of Seattle, serving both local residents and visitors. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, including travel, dining, and local happenings, making it a significant resource for anyone interested in the city. With a dedicated team of around 20 employees, Seattle magazine has maintained its relevance in the publishing industry through its print and online platforms. The magazine also engages its audience through podcasts and event listings, showcasing its commitment to community involvement and local storytelling.

19. Seattle Weekly

• Website: seattleweekly.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: seattle-weekly

Seattle Weekly is a private media company based in Seattle, Washington, established in 1976. It specializes in delivering local news, cultural commentary, and event coverage tailored to the Seattle area. The company engages its audience through a variety of platforms, including its website, where it publishes articles, hosts podcasts, and distributes newsletters. Seattle Weekly serves a niche market of consumers interested in staying informed about local happenings, arts, and culture. With a small team of around 19 employees, it operates under the umbrella of Sound Publishing and Black Press Media, which enhances its reach and resources within the local media landscape. Despite not having reported any recent funding, Seattle Weekly continues to maintain its presence and relevance in the competitive media industry.

Publishing Companies Insights: Key Companies in Washington

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Kindle Direct Publishing	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2007	Private
Sasquatch Books	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1986	Corporate
becker&mayer!	Bellevue, Washington, United States (USA)	201-500	1978	Private
Girl Friday Productions	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2006	Private
Booktrope	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	2010	Venture Capital
Blurb	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	2004	Venture Capital
Redemption Press	Enumclaw, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Private
Shelf Awareness	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Libro.fm	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Family Owned
Bluefire Productions	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
WendyLynn & Co.	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	1-10	2002	Private
Pediment Publishing	Battle Ground, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1997	Family Owned
Trillium Publishing	Shoreline, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2003	Private
HerCampus UW	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private
Premier Media Group	Tacoma, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2001	Private
Sound Publishing, Inc.	Everett, Washington, United States (USA)	201-500	1987	Family Owned
Everett Herald	Everett, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	1901	Corporate
Seattle magazine	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	51-200	1966	Private
Seattle Weekly	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1976	Private

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