Simon & Schuster Joins the Viacom Entertainment Group

Viacom has announced its decision to integrate its Simon & Schuster publishing operation with the Viacom Entertainment Group (VEG). And while Viacom expects the move to positively impact Simon & Schuster, the question remains: What will its impact be on booksellers?

According to Adam Rothberg, vice president and director of corporate communications for Simon & Schuster, it will be business as usual.

"We will continue to publish the breadth and depth of our list," said Rothberg, adding: "I do not foresee any sales force changes as a result of the move."

Viacom does expect the integration to enhance Simon & Schuster's market position, however. "By closely aligning our publishing and our entertainment operations, we expect to generate more revenue-enhancing opportunities for both, and to strengthen Simon & Schuster's position at the forefront of its industry," announced Mel Karmazin, president and chief operating officer of Viacom, in a prepared statement on January 31.

The VEG includes the Paramount film and television studio, the Famous Players Canadian exhibition chain, Famous Music Publishing, and the Paramount Parks theme park operations. Simon & Schuster's operations will remain headquartered in New York City.