Octopus Publishing Acquires Photo Publishing House Ilex

By Dianna Dilworth 

ilexOctopus Publishing Group, a division of the Hachette Book Group, has acquired Ilex Press, a publisher of illustrated international reference books, in a deal whose terms were not disclosed.

Mostly publishing art and photography titles, Ilex “exists to address the new creative needs which are constantly being unveiled by the fast moving pace of the modern media, digital technology and popular culture,” according to the publisher’s website.

As of this month, Ilex will become an imprint of Octopus Publishing Group. The acquisition includes backlist titles such as a number of bestsellers from international photographer and writer Michael Freeman. According to Octopus, Ilex titles will be distributed from the LBS warehouse at Littlehampton.

“We have long-admired the Ilex list for its quality and creativity,” stated Alison Goff, Chief Executive of Octopus. “The titles Ilex publish are essential reference for anyone working in the field of new media design and we look forward to working with the many talented authors and photographers on the list.”