Digital publisher Podium Audio buys Bookstat

LA-based digital publisher Podium Audio has bought data subscription service and analytics platform Bookstat for an undisclosed sum. 

Bookstat tracks all online book purchases in physical, e-book and audiobook formats. It claims to be the only industry data service to track all online book purchases at the retail point of sale regardless of publisher type. 

Podium says it will invest in the platform to further develop the subscription service’s product capabilities and real-time data insights. Founder Paul Abbassi will remain with the company, working in conjunction with Podium management as a technology consultant and continuing to lead Bookstat’s development and expansion. 

Abbassi said: “Bookstat was launched five years ago to serve the publishing industry by addressing a glaring blind spot in the available market data on digital and online book sales and our customer base has grown rapidly. 

“I’m proud of the product we’ve built and am thrilled to be partnering with the entire Podium team for the next exciting chapter in Bookstat’s evolution, which gives us even more room to expand and accelerate the platform for both existing customers and new ones.” 

Scott Dickey, Podium c.e.o., added: “We have had the great opportunity to work closely with Paul Abbassi over the past three years, developing a strong understanding and use case for the power of the Bookstat service. Partnering with Paul and increasing the investment in new capabilities, including new territories, will bring great value to Bookstat’s existing customers while also attracting new subscribers to the platform."