Melbourne University Publishing has embarked on a partnership with Simon & Schuster Australia for its sales and distribution in Australia and New Zealand after 12 years with United Book Distributors (UBD).

The new arrangement begins in February 2025. Orders for new releases and backlist titles can continue to be sent to UBD until 28 March 2025.

MUP Board Chair Professor Warren Bebbington said Simon & Schuster have long been a leading English-language publisher. ‘They have a growth strategy for Australia, and we are very pleased MUP will be part of it.’ He also thanked Penguin Random House and United Book Distributors for their work with MUP over an extended period. ‘We had 12 years of real support and stellar service, and we wish them well.’

Simon & Schuster Australia CEO Dan Ruffino said, ‘We're delighted to be partnering with MUP as they embark on an exciting new chapter under the publishing leadership of Foong Ling Kong. Our national and local field sales teams can’t wait to get their hands on the list and present it to booksellers across the country.’

Harper Entertainment Distribution Services (HEDS) will work to ensure there is minimal disruption to service and continuity of supply.

UBD will stop issuing Returns Authorisations (RAs) on 31 January 2025 and will process returns for all RAs issued by UBD until 28 March. HEDS will not accept returns invoiced by UBD.