Two of the Christian publishing world’s most established names are joining forces after UK based SPCK Group acquired US publisher Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., creating what the companies describe as the world’s leading independent Christian publisher of theology, biblical studies and Christian trade books.
The deal, announced on 2 September, brings together organisations with more than 300 years of combined publishing history and a backlist of more than 5,000 titles.
Under the agreement, SPCK will provide sales, marketing and distribution for Eerdmans titles in the UK and other international markets, while Eerdmans will provide the same services for SPCK Group books in the United States and Canada.
Anita Eerdmans, the third generation of her family to lead the company, is stepping down from Eerdmans Publishing to become president of the newly formed Eerdmans Foundation.
She said leaving the family business was "certainly no light decision", but described the new arrangement as a positive step for the publisher.
"Together, the new entity will allow Eerdmans to be successful for another 100 years," she said.
William Bergkamp, who has served as Eerdmans' senior vice president since 2024, will become president and publisher. He will continue to lead the Eerdmans team in the US and report to SPCK Group chief executive Sam Richardson.
Bergkamp said the acquisition would allow Eerdmans to operate at greater scale while maintaining its commitment to Christian authors and readers. "The future of Eerdmans, as part of SPCK Group, is very bright," he said.
SPCK Group has previously expanded its portfolio through the acquisitions of IVP UK and Lion Hudson. The enlarged group will bring together a wide range of Christian publishing imprints, including SPCK Publishing, Form, IVP UK, Apollos, Lion, Lion Cub, Candle, Starshine, Publicaciones Leon, Eerdmans, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, Pillar and Here Below.
Sam Richardson described SPCK and Eerdmans as "like-minded publishers" that would be "stronger together". He said the partnership would create new opportunities for authors, readers and publishing partners across the UK, US and international markets.
Eerdmans editor-in-chief James Ernest, who is stepping down from his executive vice president role and plans to retire once his successor is appointed, described the development as "providential"
Founded in 1698, SPCK is one of the oldest Christian publishing organisations in the world. Eerdmans was established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1911 and has remained largely family led throughout its history..
