Ashland, Ore.-based Blackstone Audio has acquired Audio Editions, the Auburn, Calif., direct-to-consumer audiobook retailer. Audio Editions will remain fully operational in its Auburn location, retaining its current staff.
According to a statement from Josh Stanton, Blackstone president and CEO, "the two companies are a natural fit, sharing similar business practices and company cultures that mesh well." Blackstone said it plans to update Audio Editions’ website and offer digital downloads to patrons.
Audio Editions currently offers over 50,000 audiobook titles from all major publishers, in cassette, CD, and MP3-CD. In addition to publishing over 10,000 audiobook titles, Blackstone has its own retail site, Downpour.com. Downpour also sells audio titles from other publishers.
Grady Hesters, owner of Audio Editions, will stay on as a consultant.
