Commissioned publishing involves producing a book on behalf of an organisation, trust, club, business, or individual. These projects are typically initiated to mark a milestone, document a history, or create a permanent record of work, people, or impact.

Unlike standard trade publishing, commissioned projects are developed to an agreed brief, scope, and timeline, often linked to anniversaries, events, or funding cycles. The commissioning body retains oversight of the content and distribution, while we manage the publishing process from planning through to delivery.

Our commissioned publishing work spans a wide range of sectors and project types. This includes:

• Organisational and corporate histories

• Centenary and anniversary publications

• Industry and sector histories

• Club, association, and community books

• Family and business legacy projects

Each project is assessed and scoped individually, with the approach tailored to the material, audience, and intended purpose of the book.

Commissioned projects are collaborative and carefully structured. We begin by understanding your objectives, timeframe, and the material available, then develop a clear publishing plan.

Our role may include editorial planning, copy-editing and proofreading, design and typesetting, image handling, print management, and delivery. We provide detailed proposals, transparent costings, and realistic timelines, and manage the project through to completion.

Clients work directly with our publishing team throughout the process, ensuring clarity, consistency, and accountability.

We have extensive experience producing high-quality hardback and paperback books, particularly illustrated titles designed for longevity. Production specifications are developed to suit each project and may include premium papers, specialist binding, and finishes appropriate to the brief.

Printing is managed through trusted local and international suppliers, selected based on quality requirements, scale, budget, and delivery timelines.

Many commissioned books are produced to fixed deadlines, such as centenary celebrations, launches, or key events. Early engagement is strongly recommended, particularly for research-heavy or image-rich projects.

Timelines are developed in consultation with clients and take into account editorial complexity, approvals, design, printing, and freight. We are experienced in managing projects to immovable deadlines and planning accordingly.

If you are considering a commissioned or custom publishing project, we recommend getting in touch once you have a general sense of your objectives and timeframe. An initial discussion allows us to advise on scope, feasibility, and next steps.

Enquiries relating to our trade publishing programme are handled separately and can be found here.