International (Biblica) — InterVarsity Press (IVP), a leading publisher of
thoughtful Christian books, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a
definitive agreement to acquire Biblica Books, the book-publishing arm of
Biblica Worldwide.
In the acquisition, which is expected to close by the end of the calendar
year, IVP will obtain 170 current and nearly 30 new Biblica Books titles. This
includes Operation World, the definitive global prayer guide that's now in its
seventh edition.
The acquisition agreement between IVP and Biblica was made possible when
Biblica recently made a strategic decision to narrow its focus solely to the
Bible. A search for the right strategic partner with which to place their
book-publishing portfolio led them to IVP.
"The addition of Biblica Books is a significant strategy for IVP. This will
help us further serve and equip the church in its witness of grace and truth in
the world," says Bob Fryling, publisher of InterVarsity Press. "With this
acquisition, IVP becomes an even stronger publisher for biblical and
missions-oriented resources. We are grateful for this expansion opportunity."
The two publishers readily agreed that IVP is in a very strong position to
effectively carry forward the vision of Biblica Books. Through its
missions-focused publishing program and networks such as the Urbana Student
Missions Conferences, plus its broad reach in both trade and academic markets,
IVP will now be publishing an even greater selection of books to help
Christians throughout the church better fulfill their kingdom calling.
Scott Bolinder, president of global publishing for Biblica, says that "there
could not be a better fit for our authors and their wonderful content that
makes up our unique book-publishing portfolio. The mission of IVP and Biblica
resonates deeply with seeing lives around the world transformed through the
Bible and biblical resources. We are delighted with the outcome of this
transition and the potential to continue working closely as partners in global
ministry."
IVP plans a strong sales and marketing focus for current Biblica Books
titles starting in January 2012. This will include "Operation World," as well as
the recent release, "The Future of the Global Church" by Patrick Johnstone. The
official launch of the new line of Biblica Books at IVP will begin in March
2012.
