Label certification program continues to help the book industry improve supply chain efficiency

New York, NY (May 12, 2009) -- The Book Industry Study Group, Inc. (BISG) announced today the official certification of Random House, Inc. under its Product Label Certification Program (PLCP). Launched in March 2008, the PLCP is as an industry-wide BISG initiative that supports the standardization of labels used to direct the movement and identify the contents of shipping containers. As a Certified Label Provider, Random House joins previously-certified company Simon and Schuster in a commitment to improve the efficient movement of products throughout the book supply chain.

"Participation in industry-wide certification programs is an important step toward improving the effectiveness of today's book supply chain," said BISG Executive Director Michael Healy. "We're pleased to welcome Random House as a Certified Label Provider under BISG's Product Label Certification Program and encourage additional publishers and suppliers to join them."

Any originator of single title cartons for distribution through the book supply chain can apply for certification under the PLCP. To apply, publishers and suppliers must submit Product Labels to the BISG office for examination by GS1-approved barcode suppliers, who compare the labels against specific criteria laid out in BISG's Guidelines for Shipping Container Labeling. More information on the program can be found on the BISG website.

Media Contact:
Karen Forster
Associate Director
Book Industry Study Group
646-336-7141
karen@bisg.org
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About the Book Industry Study Group, Inc. (BISG)
The Book Industry Study Group, Inc. (BISG) is the U.S. publishing industry's leading trade association for policy, standards and research. The mission of BISG is to create a more informed, empowered and efficient book industry. Membership consists of publishers, manufacturers, suppliers, wholesalers, retailers, librarians and others engaged in the business of print and electronic media. Learn more about BISG at www.bisg.org.

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