The programme, strategically timed to coincide with The London Book Fair, ensures that delegates will have an enriched experience not only of the Congress but also a curated agenda throughout the book fair itself.

Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) is the official Gold Sponsor for the 31st International Publishers Congress.

Arnaud Nourry and Alaa Al Aswany will speak on Sunday 10 April, as part of a day focusing on discussing the business of global publishing. This will be followed by a Gala dinner on Sunday night in the heart of London’s historic palace district. Monday’s Congress programme will look at the wider issues around publishing progress and opportunities in a consumer-led world. Delegates will be given the option for their third day to attend the Research & Scholarly Publishing Forum, “What Works?” Education Conference or a more general seminar programme within the book fair itself.

Programme for IPA Congress delegates:
• Saturday 9 April:
Day 1: Networking reception

• Sunday 10 April:
Day 2: Global Publishing Now: The Business

• Monday 11 April:
Day 3: Quantum: Publishing & So Much More

• Tuesday 12 April:
Day 4: The London Book Fair, Research & Scholarly Publishing Forum or “What Works?” Education Conference

The International Publishers Congress delegates will also have a VIP experience of the book fair itself as well as the opportunity to attend other seminar sessions, a cocktail reception in Britain’s flagship bookstore and invites to cinema screenings and author events across London.

Richard Charkin, Executive Director, Bloomsbury and President of the IPA said:
“After a spectacular Congress in Bangkok in 2015 we are looking forward to our Congress in London. Not only is it my home town and the home of Bloomsbury Publishing. It’s also home to many of the world’s greatest publishing houses. Do join us in Europe’s most multicultural, most global and most vibrant city.”

Jacks Thomas, Director of The London Book Fair said:
“The world will join together next April in celebrating Shakespeare and Cervantes on the 400th anniversary of their deaths, highlighting the power and endurance of the written word. So it is fitting that the book industry will also gather together in April in Olympia to debate current issues at the 31st International Publishers Congress.”

Richard Mollet, Chief Executive of the Publishers Association said:
“We are looking forward to welcoming the international publishing community to London next year for what is going to be an exciting, relevant and dynamic Congress. With policy issues critical to publishing, such as copyright and freedom to publish under threat, it will provide an important reminder of the vital contribution our industry makes to society, culture and the economy.”

To find out more information and to register:
www.londonbookfair.co.uk/ipacongress

Media enquiries: Please contact Dani Freeman Midas PR, Tel: 020 7361 7860, Daniel.freeman@midaspr.co.uk
www.londonbookfair.co.uk