FBF25: Reinventing Ecosystems for Profitable Growth

November 12, 2025 at Munich, Germany (2 days, 12-13 November)

The Future Book Forum is now in its 10th year, and I will be hosting it again, joined by a live audience, and many more publishers joining online from across the world. 12 years ago Joerg Engelstaedter and I got together to help the book publishing industry reinvent its future. Each year we have progressively focused on crucial issues and opportunities by which we can all innovate and grow.

Back in 2014 we started by envisioning possible futures, which we then tested with consumer insights and emerging business models in the next years. In 2017 we sought to define the DNA of a book – from the physical form, to its content, and limitless deliveries. Growth became a key ananda, particularly smarter growth, fuelled by data analytics, consumer power, and sustainable innovation.

Ecosystem Thinking

Ecosystems proliferate in every sector, typically built around customers rather than products, bringing together multiple partners and technologies, physical and digital, to do more for customers, and help every business to reach further, and grow faster.

Here are some standout examples of industries transformed by ecosystem business models, illustrating both new growth opportunities and enhanced consumer experiences:

Technology: Apple’s Ecosystem

Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem spans hardware, software, services, and retail. By creating seamless connections between devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs, Apple ensures that consumers are locked into its ecosystem. Services like the App Store, iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Pay not only enhance user experience but also generate significant recurring revenue streams. For instance:

• Consumers benefit from effortless synchronization across devices and personalized services.
• The App Store provides developers access to millions of users, creating new business opportunities.

Automotive: Tesla’s Energy Ecosystem

Tesla has redefined the automotive industry by expanding its ecosystem beyond electric vehicles (EVs). It includes energy solutions like solar panels, Powerwall home batteries, and charging stations. This ecosystem creates revenue streams through energy products and subscription services. Consumers benefit from:

• Access to sustainable, integrated energy solutions.
• Enhanced EV ownership experience with an extensive global charging network.

Entertainment: Disney’s Brand Ecosystem

Disney leverages its vast intellectual property portfolio across multiple platforms: movies, TV shows, theme parks, merchandise, and streaming services (Disney+). This interconnected ecosystem maximizes revenue potential by cross-selling products and services. For consumers:

• Disney provides immersive storytelling experiences across different mediums.
• Fans enjoy exclusive content and collectibles tied to beloved franchises.

Healthcare: Philips Connected Health Ecosystem

Philips employs an ecosystem model to integrate connected health devices, data analytics, and cloud platforms. Their strategy enables better patient care while generating recurring revenue through digital tools and subscriptions. For instance:

• Hospitals and healthcare providers benefit from real-time analytics and connected equipment.
• Consumers enjoy personalized healthcare solutions, such as wearable health monitors.

Retail: Amazon Marketplace and Prime Ecosystem

Amazon revolutionized retail with its marketplace, empowering businesses to sell products to a global audience while building consumer loyalty through services like Prime. Prime members receive benefits like faster shipping, exclusive deals, and streaming access. Key outcomes:

• Vendors tap into Amazon’s vast customer base and fulfillment services.
• Consumers experience convenience and exclusivity through integrated shopping and entertainment services.

These ecosystems show how interconnected networks, innovation, and customer-centric strategies can drive new revenue streams while enriching experiences for participants and users alike

Ecosystems in Book Publishing

Imagine an ecosystem model for the printing and publishing industry that seamlessly integrates technology, sustainability, and collaboration—transforming both the business of companies and the experience for consumers.

1. Business Transformation for Companies:

• Collaboration and Efficiency: Companies could form interconnected networks where data, resources, and expertise flow freely. For example, publishers, printers, and distributors could use shared digital platforms for better communication, leading to reduced production cycles and minimized waste. This enables cost savings and faster delivery.
• Localized Production: Leveraging decentralized, on-demand printing hubs globally minimizes shipping distances and reduces environmental impact. Gelato’s model is a great example of this.
• Digital-First Strategies: Embracing AI-driven predictive analytics helps participants understand consumer trends, optimize inventory, and launch tailored campaigns. Enhanced insights mean smarter decisions and greater market adaptability.
• Sustainability Goals: Companies could align with eco-friendly practices, such as recycled materials and low-energy production, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

2. Consumer Experience Revolution:

• Personalization: AI-driven recommendation systems allow consumers to discover books based on individual tastes, habits, or even social context. Snackz.ai’s approach demonstrates the power of personalization in enhancing engagement.
• Interactive Formats: Augmented reality (AR) or enhanced e-book formats could make reading more immersive and enjoyable, blending storytelling with multimedia experiences.
• Speed and Access: On-demand production ensures that consumers can receive their books and publications faster, with access to both mainstream and niche titles from anywhere in the world.
• Community Building: Platforms like Heloola demonstrate how fostering vibrant, global communities of readers can enhance the joy of sharing and discussing content—making reading social, dynamic, and interactive.

This model would create an industry ecosystem that champions innovation, values sustainability, and focuses on delivering delightful experiences to consumers while optimizing businesses.

Examples of Ecosystems in Books

The printing and book publishing industries have seen the rise of several ecosystem models that foster collaboration, efficiency, and innovation. Here are a few examples:

1. On-Demand Production Ecosystems

• Gelato: Gelato connects local printing hubs worldwide to produce and distribute customized products. This ecosystem reduces waste, shortens delivery times, and supports local businesses. Publishers can print smaller runs of books closer to their target audiences, minimizing inventory risks while consumers receive their orders more quickly and sustainably.
• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): KDP offers self-published authors access to on-demand printing and distribution networks, enabling writers to sell their work globally without upfront costs. It integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s marketplace, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for authors, printers, and readers.

2. Collaborative Platforms and Networks

• IngramSpark: This platform acts as a hub for authors, publishers, and retailers. It provides printing, distribution, and marketing services within a single ecosystem. Publishers and independent authors can reach thousands of booksellers and libraries globally through IngramSpark’s network.
• Wattpad: Wattpad is a storytelling platform that connects writers, readers, and publishers. Its ecosystem allows writers to share stories, get feedback, and even secure publishing or film deals. Publishers can discover fresh talent, while readers interact with stories in a vibrant, community-driven space.

3. Digital-First Ecosystems

• Snackz.ai: Leveraging AI, brings a tech-driven approach to publishing by optimizing book discovery. Authors and publishers can tap into its recommendation algorithms to increase their reach, while readers enjoy personalized suggestions tailored to their tastes.
• Scribd: Scribd offers a subscription-based ecosystem for accessing digital books, audiobooks, and other media. It integrates publishers, authors, and consumers into a single platform where content is monetized through recurring revenue streams.

4. Sustainable Ecosystem Initiatives

• PaperLabs: Focused on sustainability, PaperLabs integrates eco-friendly printing practices with collaborative supply chains. Publishers and print shops participate in a shared ecosystem that emphasizes reducing environmental impact.
• HP SmartStream Mosaic: This solution supports dynamic, digitally printed packaging and book covers. By connecting designers, printers, and publishers, it creates an ecosystem that enhances creativity and consumer appeal while minimizing waste.

Future Publishing Ecosystems

Book publishers have immense potential to innovate and thrive by adopting connected, intelligent ecosystem business models. Here’s how they could reinvent their operations to unlock new revenue streams and drive profitable growth:

1. Create Integrated Consumer Platforms

• Develop a reader-centric ecosystem that combines personalized book discovery (like AI-driven recommendations), book clubs (digital and physical), author-reader interactions, and exclusive subscription services. This fosters deeper reader engagement and loyalty, much like Amazon Prime.
• Add features like gamification, rewards for reading milestones, or interactive storytelling experiences to capture younger audiences and drive recurring revenue.

2. Form Strategic Alliances Across the Value Chain

• Partner with tech companies for smart publishing solutions that leverage data analytics to optimize production, marketing, and distribution.
• Collaborate with local printers for sustainable, on-demand production, reducing shipping costs and enabling hyper-localized service—similar to Gelato’s model.
• Expand partnerships with independent authors, offering flexible publishing agreements and shared royalties, creating value for self-publishers and diversifying revenue streams.

3. Incorporate Multimedia and Cross-Platform Experiences

• Explore multimedia formats like augmented reality (AR) books or enhanced e-books that integrate soundtracks, videos, and interactive visuals for immersive storytelling.
• Collaborate with film and gaming industries to create cross-platform ecosystems, adapting popular books into movies, games, or interactive apps.

4. Embrace AI and Big Data

• Leverage AI for consumer analytics to better understand reader preferences, forecast trends, and guide editorial decisions.
• Use AI tools to streamline marketing strategies, creating highly targeted campaigns and personalized content.

5. Build Community-Driven Models

• Establish platforms like Heloola that combine social features (online book clubs, discussion forums) with curated content. These ecosystems turn reading into a shared experience, boosting engagement and repeat purchases.
• Promote user-generated content and collaborations between readers and authors, creating a dynamic space where users feel like contributors to the ecosystem.

6. Focus on Sustainability

• Develop eco-friendly publishing ecosystems with recycled materials, carbon-neutral processes, and localized production hubs. Appeal to eco-conscious readers and meet growing sustainability demands.

7. Diversify Revenue Streams

• Offer educational content for schools and universities, such as interactive learning materials and access to exclusive libraries.
• Create tiered membership options, enabling subscribers to enjoy perks like early access to new releases, behind-the-scenes insights, or signed copies.

By creating a well-connected ecosystem, publishers can enrich the customer experience, strengthen relationships with authors and distributors, and seize opportunities to monetize creativity in new ways.

Expanding further on how book publishers can leverage ecosystem business models for transformation:

1. Global Ecosystem Partnerships

Publishers could create a global network of partners, integrating:

• Distributors: Collaborate with platforms like Amazon and local bookstores to ensure books reach a diverse audience.
• Printers: Utilize sustainable, localized printing hubs like Gelato to lower costs and environmental impact while reducing delivery times.
• Tech Innovators: Partner with AI companies for smart tools that optimize marketing, reader engagement, and production.

For example, publishers might form alliances with global e-learning companies to offer curated collections of books for educational courses, opening a lucrative revenue stream.

2. AI-Driven Consumer Insights

Investing in AI could help publishers analyze reader preferences, purchase patterns, and content engagement data. Here’s how:

• Trend Identification: Predict upcoming genres or themes that will resonate with readers.
• Targeted Marketing: Craft campaigns that speak directly to specific demographics, enhancing sales potential.
• Dynamic Content Creation: Generate tailored recommendations or customized book collections based on real-time insights.

This could lead to more meaningful connections between books and readers, boosting satisfaction and repeat purchases.

3. Community-Led Ecosystems

Publishers could foster reader communities to create a more interactive experience:

• Launch digital platforms like Heloola that host virtual book clubs, Q&A sessions with authors, and reader feedback opportunities.
• Offer rewards for community engagement, such as exclusive discounts, early access to upcoming releases, or custom editions.

These communities would strengthen customer loyalty and create advocacy, driving word-of-mouth growth.

4. Flexible Publishing and Distribution Models

• Develop an omnichannel publishing strategy that merges physical and digital offerings.
• Leverage blockchain technology for direct and transparent royalty payments to authors, encouraging talent acquisition and retention.
• Provide new subscription models, like unlimited access to niche genres or curated content bundles.

Publishers could also diversify into audiobooks and multimedia narratives, expanding formats to reach non-traditional readers.

5. Sustainable Practices and Branding

Sustainability is becoming an expectation rather than a choice:

• Adopt green printing technologies, recycled paper, and carbon-neutral processes to attract eco-conscious readers.
• Promote sustainability as part of the brand identity, turning it into a competitive advantage.

6. Ecosystem Monetization Opportunities

Through an interconnected model, publishers can tap into multiple revenue streams:

• Membership Fees: Offer premium tiers for content access and exclusive benefits.
• Data Analytics Services: Monetize anonymized insights from reader data to third-party marketers or libraries.
• Advertising Revenue: Create targeted ad spaces for related industries within digital reading platforms.

These strategies could help publishers evolve from a book-centric model into a value-driven experience provider, ensuring long-term profitability.

Future possibilities for book ecosystems

Here’s a vision of what the future of publishing could look like, powered by advanced ecosystems:

1. Personalized Reading Hubs

Imagine a platform called “LitConnect,” where readers have their own personalized dashboard:

• For Readers: Tailored book recommendations based on mood, interests, and social preferences, powered by AI. Integration with virtual reality (VR) lets readers explore immersive book settings (e.g., stepping into a fantasy world while reading).
• For Authors and Publishers: Advanced analytics show real-time reader engagement data. Authors can host live VR readings, generating revenue through ticket sales and merchandise.

2. Global Sustainable Networks

Picture a scenario where a reader orders a book through a platform like “EcoReads”:

• For Readers: The book is printed in a local printing hub using eco-friendly materials and delivered within hours. The cost is competitive, and buyers can track the production’s carbon footprint.
• For Publishers: A collaborative ecosystem with shared printing facilities lowers costs and allows publishers to maintain a sustainable and scalable distribution network.

3. Multimedia Story Ecosystems

Imagine a publishing company, “StoryVerse,” that specializes in turning books into interconnected multimedia experiences:

• For Readers: Books come alive with enhanced e-book features—integrated audio, visual, and even interactive puzzles. If a user enjoys a novel, they can unlock its companion AR game or an accompanying short film within the same ecosystem.
• For Publishers: Expanded monetization opportunities through subscriptions to the ecosystem and cross-selling formats like games, merchandise, and events.

4. AI-Curated Author Collaborations

Picture a platform called “AuthorSync” that connects authors worldwide:

• For Authors: Writers collaborate on stories curated by AI, which identifies complementary writing styles. These collaborations result in unique novels or anthologies published on-demand.
• For Readers: Fans participate by voting on plot developments or characters, creating a highly engaging, community-driven storytelling experience. Limited-edition copies, featuring fan-contributed artwork, become prized collectibles.

5. Education and Knowledge Ecosystems

Imagine “LearnBook”—a platform integrating books into learning systems globally:

• For Readers: Students and lifelong learners access curated reading lists tied to their educational goals, with interactive elements like quizzes or study groups.
• For Publishers: Partnerships with academic institutions drive steady demand for digital content. Publishers can offer premium access to archives, research tools, or virtual seminars with renowned authors.

These future scenarios illustrate how publishing could evolve into vibrant, tech-enabled ecosystems, making reading more interactive, sustainable, and profitable for everyone involved.

More detailed examples from other sectors

Apple Ecosystem

Core Idea: Seamless integration across products, services, and third-party developers.

• User-Centric Hub: Apple’s focus is on user experience across devices like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and more. The tight interconnection among products encourages brand loyalty.
• Partner Integration:
  • App Store: Third-party developers build apps for iOS, creating value for users.
  • Media & Subscriptions: Partnerships in content delivery (e.g., Apple Music, Apple TV+).
  • Smart Home Devices: Apple’s HomeKit enables collaboration with IoT device makers.
  • Health Partnerships: Integration with health tech and medical data tracking apps (e.g., fitness companies integrating with Apple Watch).
• Key Technologies: iOS, iCloud, Apple Pay, Siri, and advanced hardware & software interlinking.

Outcome: Apple retains users within its closed but high-value ecosystem. By building sticky user experiences and opening parts of its ecosystem to partners (while maintaining control), Apple has built one of the world’s most valuable business ecosystems.

Google Ecosystem

Core Idea: Use of data and services to create a ubiquitous ecosystem touching personal and professional life.

• User-Centric Hub: Free services like Google Search, Android OS, Gmail, YouTube, and Google Maps serve billions daily.
• Partner Integration:
  • Google Play Store: Developers provide apps and games on Android, Google’s open mobile OS.
  • Google Ads & Marketing Tools: Digital advertising partners monetize users across platforms.
  • YouTube Creators & Advertisers: Content creators, brands, and marketers build thriving businesses within YouTube.
  • Smart Tech: Nest products, Pixel hardware, and IoT devices connect with Google Assistant and smart partners.
• Key Technologies: Android (OS), Google Cloud, Ads, and AI capabilities (e.g., Google Gemini).

Outcome: Google connects users, partners, and developers through open platforms while creating sticky ecosystems driven by AI, advertising, and technological accessibility.

Condé Nast Ecosystem

Core Idea: A digital-first content ecosystem with global media brands driving fashion, luxury, and lifestyle culture.

• Content Hub:
  • Platforms like Vogue, The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, and GQ produce high-quality content in fashion, culture, and lifestyle.
  • Digital transformation enables mobile-first access to articles, video content, and social experiences.
• Partner Integration:
  • Luxury Brands and Advertisers: Luxury fashion houses and brands leverage editorial and advertising collaborations.
  • Fashion Events: Partnerships for experiences like Met Gala (Vogue) and major fashion weeks globally.
  • Creators: Photographers, models, journalists, stylists, and content creators collaborate with Condé Nast.
• Key Technologies:
  • AR/VR-based immersive content for editorial stories.
  • Digital and data tools to create tailored content and advertising for readers.

Outcome: Condé Nast builds an ecosystem that ties together audiences, creators, luxury brands, and immersive content experiences to define fashion and culture globally.

Spotify Ecosystem 

Core Idea: A music and audio platform with tools for creators, advertisers, and users to thrive.

• Content Hub:
  • Streaming of music, podcasts, and audiobooks for listeners worldwide.
  • Discovery tools (like playlists and “Spotify Wrapped”) drive user engagement.
• Partner Integration:
  • Artists and Labels: Music producers, record labels, and independent artists share their music.
  • Podcasters: Partnerships with creators to build an extensive podcast ecosystem.
  • Technology Partners: Integration with smart devices (e.g., Alexa, Apple CarPlay) and tools for creators like Spotify for Artists.
• Key Technologies:
  • Personalization: Algorithms for curated playlists and content discovery.
  • Anchor: Tools for podcasters to create and distribute audio content.

Outcome: Spotify connects content creators (artists, podcasters) to users, allowing for monetization while providing advertisers and technology partners a space to engage users.

Disney Ecosystem 

Core Idea: A vertically integrated content and entertainment powerhouse.

• Content Hub:
  • Disney+: Streaming platform with Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
  • Disney’s vast publishing (books, comics, merchandise) supports film, TV, and IP expansion.
  • Theme parks, theaters, and retail are physical extensions of the content experience.
• Partner Integration:
  • Content Collaborators: Film production studios, animation teams, and IP owners.
  • Licensing Partners: Disney collaborates with fashion (H&M, Adidas), toy companies (LEGO, Hasbro), and publishers for product tie-ins.
  • Tech Partners: Partnerships for streaming tech, AR/VR experiences, and games.
• Key Technologies:
  • Disney+ platform for global content delivery.
  • AR/VR innovation in theme park rides and Disney experiences.

Outcome: Disney’s ecosystem revolves around owned IP (e.g., Marvel, Star Wars), merging content, merchandise, publishing, experiences, and digital platforms into a cohesive business.

Vogue Ecosystem 

Core Idea: Combining fashion, media, and business insights to connect luxury fashion with readers, brands, and partners.

• Content Hub:
  • Vogue Business focuses on luxury fashion insights, sustainability, and consumer behavior analysis.
  • Media platforms deliver reports, articles, and video content tailored to B2B fashion industry professionals.
• Partner Integration:
  • Luxury Fashion Brands: Content sponsorship and campaigns for major fashion houses.
  • Industry Events: Partnerships with trade shows, conferences (e.g., Copenhagen Fashion Summit for sustainability).
  • Fashion Creators: Journalists, photographers, researchers, and designers collaborating for niche fashion content.
• Key Technologies:
  • Data-driven tools to track industry trends (e.g., sustainability, consumer analytics).
  • Multimedia content such as augmented fashion runway experiences.

Outcome: Vogue Business acts as a digital ecosystem connecting businesses, advertisers, creators, and readers with the future of luxury fashion.

Medium Ecosystem

Core Idea: A platform connecting content creators, publishers, and readers in an ad-free environment.

• Content Hub:
  • Medium provides a publishing platform where writers, independent journalists, and organizations post articles and stories.
• Partner Integration:
  • Writers and Publishers: Independent and professional writers create monetizable content.
  • Readers: Subscription models for readers provide a steady revenue stream.
  • Tools and Developers: Integrations for content writing, design, and distribution tools.
• Key Technologies:
  • Paid subscriptions that allow direct creator monetization.
  • AI-driven curation to deliver personalized content.

Outcome: Medium offers a collaborative ecosystem for creators to focus on producing quality content while leveraging readers for engagement and monetization.

Bandcamp Ecosystem 

Core Idea: Empower independent music artists with tools to distribute, monetize, and connect with fans.

• Content Hub:
  • Bandcamp allows musicians to self-publish and sell albums, tracks, and merchandise directly to fans.
• Partner Integration:
  • Musicians and Bands: Direct-to-fan sales without label interference.
  • Merch Partners: Seamless sale and shipping of artist merchandise.
  • Discovery Tools: Curators and bloggers partner to spotlight music on Bandcamp Weekly.
• Key Technologies:
  • Streaming, purchasing, and revenue-sharing tech to empower independent artists.

Outcome: Bandcamp enables an artist-focused ecosystem, giving musicians direct control over their revenue, distribution, and audience connection.

Wattpad Ecosystem

Core Idea: A platform connecting storytellers, readers, publishers, and media partners.

• Content Hub:
  • Wattpad provides a space for writers to publish original stories that readers consume for free.
• Partner Integration:
  • Content Creators: Aspiring writers and creators build audiences on Wattpad.
  • Film/TV Studios: Stories from Wattpad often turn into screen adaptations (e.g., Netflix, Hulu).
  • Traditional Publishing: Partnerships with publishers to adapt Wattpad stories into books.
• Key Technologies:
  • Machine learning identifies popular stories with breakout potential.
  • Social reading features drive engagement between writers and readers.

Outcome: Wattpad bridges the gap between amateur creators and professional media while building an interactive storytelling community.

FBF25 Keynotes and Speakers