Bath-based independent publishing firm Crimson is to publish the iconic Time Out Guides across the world after securing a deal with Time Out Group.
Under the agreement, Crimson will also distribute all new Time Out Guides and the previously produced range of books, which total more than 50 titles.
Time Out Guides give invaluable information for independent travellers and tourists visiting cities across the world from Athens to Vancouver, with an emphasis on their entertainment, bars, restaurants, shopping, art and nightlife.
Time Out said the deal was part of its growth from a traditional print-based publisher into a global media group.
Crimson Publishing, which employs 16 people, produces a wide range of titles including the Pathfinder walking guides, Pocket Bibles – gift books giving practical tips and advice on hobbies and pastimes such as baking and gardening – Trotman education and careers books and White Ladder, an imprint covering parenting and family health.
The Time Out Guides deal extends its portfolio into international travel for the first time.
Managing director Andy Riddle said: “With its local expertise, Time Out helps millions of visitors to cities around the world get the most out of their travels.
“Together, we will offer a great collection of city guides, covering an exciting range of destinations that will sit neatly alongside Time Out’s websites, apps and magazines. We will start sharing more detailed plans with retail customers over the coming weeks.”
Time Out Digital CEO Noel Penzer added: “We are delighted to partner with Crimson for our book publishing programme.
“This partnership ensures our brand’s visibility and presence in travellers’ bookshelves while at the same time it allows us to focus on Time Out’s continued transformation from a traditional media company to a global multi-media business.
“As soon as we started discussing the way forward with Crimson, it became clear that there was an exciting future for our Time Out Guides. Time Out seeks to inspire and enable people to experience the best of a city so it’s great that our audience will continue to benefit from our expert take on city travel in book form which we know they like to use alongside our curated digital content and magazines.”
