Book fair sees crowds but uneven sales

The 15th Feria de Editores (FED) in Argentina celebrated its anniversary with a significant increase in public attendance, drawing nearly 40,000 visitors compared to 30,800 last year. However, the event, which featured over 300 exhibitors, experienced uneven sales, with some reporting improvements or stable results while others saw declines of up to 15%.

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It is exciting to see the public's interest. We are proud to create projects like the bookseller award or to give away more than seven thousand free books, this year with the theme of work, or to dispatch hundreds of kilos of books free of charge to bookstores across the country so that small and medium-sized publishers can reach further. The FED is a project that is the result of the collective work of the entire sector. We know it has a lot to improve, but we also know that every year it takes a step forward.

Organizers noted the "exciting" public interest and highlighted initiatives like the bookseller award and the distribution of over seven thousand free books on the theme of work. They also emphasized the FED's role in supporting small and medium-sized publishers by facilitating book shipments across the country. Despite acknowledging areas for improvement, organizers expressed pride in the event's annual progress.

Many exhibitors resorted to promotions and discounts, particularly on the final day, to stimulate sales. Some publishers, like Guido Indij of Interzona, Factotum, and La Marca, reported a 15% increase in sales, largely driven by new releases. The Rosario-based publisher Beatriz Viterbo saw a notable 27% rise in sales, with its editor, Carolina Rolle, expressing satisfaction despite the challenging economic climate for independent publishing.

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We are very happy. Although it is not easy to sustain an independent publishing house in this context, the FED promotes a very sensitive exchange in relation to books.

Other publishers also reported positive trends. Leticia Martin of Qeja celebrated surprising sales improvements compared to the previous year, contrasting it with lower sales in bookstores. Raúl Carioli of Prometeo mentioned selling two hundred copies of essays on Saturday alone. Vanesa Hernández of La Crujía noted consistent year-on-year sales growth, attributing it to a wider selection of titles and prices below 30,000 Argentine pesos.

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Sales improved, surprisingly, and we surpassed those of 2025. In bookstores, we are selling less than ever.

Despite the mixed sales figures, the Feria de Editores continues to be a vital platform for literary exchange and a testament to the collaborative efforts of the publishing sector. The event's growth and the dedication of its participants underscore its importance in the Argentine literary landscape.

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We have more titles and prices below the 30,000 peso barrier.