With the uncertainty surrounding European Union Deforestation Regulations now put to rest, and the tariff issue quiet for the moment, the mood was one of quiet confidence at the Book Manufacturers Institute’s annual meeting held November 8–9 at the Don CeSar Hotel in St. Pete Beach, Fla.

For starters, despite industry consolidation and rising costs, BMI’s finances are “healthy and strong,” reported BMI president Bill Rojack, who is also VP of the paper supplier Midland.

There was little talk about the supply chain concerns that have retailers worried about receiving books on time for the holidays. For the most part, printers have been able to meet the demand for books, and some said any delays would most likely be due to shipping issues rather than a printing backlog.

The day ended with a look at the mergers and acquisition landscape in the printing industry. Jim Russell of New Directions Partners said despite the acquisitions that have already occurred, the printing business still largely remains “a fragmented industry.”

According to Russell, while the number of deals slowed down in 2024, they picked up again in 2025 and remain strong this year. He said there are more buyers than ever and they are interested in creating companies that will not only operate more efficiently, but will be “sticky” in terms of offering services that go beyond merely printing books.

BMI Meeting Covers Range of Issues