For writers looking to maintain control over the creative and financial aspects of their book, self-publishing in the UK is an increasingly popular option.
Self-publishing allows authors to retain ownership of their work, manage the entire publishing process, and earn a higher share of royalties compared to traditional publishing. In the UK, several self-publishing platforms and companies offer authors the tools, support, and distribution networks necessary to bring their books to readers.
Below is a list of top self-publishing companies and platforms in the UK, organized by the services they provide and the type of author they cater to.
Table of Contents
- Should You Self-Publish?
- How to Self-Publish
- Full-Service Self-Publishing Companies
- Print-On-Demand (POD) and Distribution Platforms
- E-Book Publishing Platforms
- Hybrid Publishing Options
- Ready to Publish Your Book?
Should You Self-Publish?
Self-publishing can be an excellent option for authors who want full creative control, faster publication timelines, and higher royalties. However, it also requires authors to handle or outsource tasks such as editing, design, marketing, and distribution.
Self-publishing suits authors who are entrepreneurial, have a clear vision for their work, or want to maintain full rights over their books.
To decide if self-publishing is the right path for you, consider your goals, budget, and ability to manage the publishing process. It’s important to weigh the advantages of creative freedom against the responsibilities of self-managing production and promotion.
How to Self-Publish
Once you’ve decided to self-publish, the next step is choosing the right platform. There are various types of self-publishing options available in the UK, ranging from full-service companies that handle everything from editing to marketing, to DIY platforms that allow authors to manage the entire process themselves.
The steps to self-publishing generally include:
- Editing: Polishing your manuscript to ensure it’s professional and ready for readers.
- Book Design: Creating a cover and interior layout that matches the industry standards.
- Formatting: Preparing your manuscript for digital or print formats.
- Distribution: Getting your book listed on major retailers like Amazon, Waterstones, and Barnes & Noble.
- Marketing: Promoting your book to your target audience.
Full-Service Self-Publishing Companies
Full-service self-publishing companies handle everything from editing and design to marketing and distribution. These options are ideal for authors who want professional support throughout the publishing process.
Matador (Troubador Publishing)
Who it’s for: Writers looking for professional, full-service self-publishing.
About: Matador offers comprehensive self-publishing services, including editing, design, marketing, and distribution. Authors can publish both in print and digital formats, with distribution to major UK and global retailers. Known for their transparent pricing and high-quality production, Matador is ideal for authors who want a hands-on partner in the publishing process.
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The Book Guild
Who it’s for: Authors seeking a hybrid publishing model with elements of traditional publishing support.
About: The Book Guild combines self-publishing services with traditional publishing support, offering professional editorial, design, and distribution services. They are selective in the projects they take on and work closely with authors to create high-quality, marketable books.
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New Generation Publishing
Who it’s for: Authors seeking customizable self-publishing services.
About: New Generation Publishing provides a range of services from basic editing and formatting to full-service packages that include marketing and distribution. Their flexibility allows authors to choose the services they need, making it a great option for those with specific requirements.
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Print-On-Demand (POD) and Distribution Platforms
Print-on-demand services allow authors to publish physical books without upfront printing costs. These platforms handle printing and distribution, only producing books when they’re ordered, reducing financial risk.
Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)
Who it’s for: Writers looking for an easy-to-use platform for eBook and print-on-demand publishing.
About: Amazon KDP is one of the most popular self-publishing platforms worldwide. It allows authors to publish eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks, with distribution through Amazon’s global marketplace. The platform is free to use, and authors retain full control over their content and pricing.
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IngramSpark
Who it’s for: Authors looking for global print and eBook distribution, including brick-and-mortar bookstores.
About: IngramSpark offers print-on-demand services with distribution to thousands of retailers, including independent bookstores. It’s ideal for authors who want more than just Amazon distribution and are looking to reach a wider audience.
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Lulu
Who it’s for: Writers wanting flexibility in both print and digital self-publishing.
About: Lulu is a popular platform for authors who want to self-publish print books, photo books, and eBooks. With its global distribution network and user-friendly tools, Lulu gives authors flexibility in publishing both digital and physical copies of their books.
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E-Book Publishing Platforms
E-book publishing platforms offer authors easy access to global eBook markets. They allow you to publish and sell digital copies of your book on popular online retailers.
Smashwords
Who it’s for: Authors looking to publish and distribute eBooks across multiple platforms.
About: Smashwords is a popular platform that allows authors to publish eBooks and distribute them to major retailers like Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. It’s known for its wide reach and user-friendly publishing process, making it a great choice for authors focused on eBooks.
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Kobo Writing Life
Who it’s for: Writers seeking direct eBook publishing with distribution through Kobo’s global platform.
About: Kobo Writing Life is Kobo’s direct publishing platform, allowing authors to publish eBooks and distribute them globally through Kobo’s store. Kobo is popular in international markets, making it an excellent option for authors looking to expand their reach beyond the UK.
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Hybrid Publishing Options
Hybrid publishing offers a middle ground between traditional and self-publishing, combining the creative control of self-publishing with some of the services typically provided by traditional publishers.
Whitefox
Who it’s for: Authors seeking premium, bespoke publishing services.
About: Whitefox offers a hybrid publishing model, providing high-quality editorial and design services with traditional distribution networks. They are ideal for authors of nonfiction, particularly business books and memoirs, who are looking for a professional publishing experience.
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Troubador (Matador Hybrid)
Who it’s for: Writers who want the benefits of traditional publishing alongside the control of self-publishing.
About: Matador’s hybrid publishing service offers the quality of traditional publishing with the author input and control typical of self-publishing. They provide a comprehensive package of editing, design, and distribution services, including access to brick-and-mortar stores.
Visit their site
Ready to Publish Your Book?
Self-publishing offers incredible flexibility and control for authors, but it also requires careful planning and decision-making.
Whether you’re looking for full-service support, print-on-demand services, or an easy way to publish your eBook, these Canadian self-publishing platforms provide a wide range of options to help bring your book to life.
Not sure which option is right for you? Book a consultation with us to get expert advice on self-publishing, marketing, and distribution strategies that will help your book reach its full potential.
Article by Leandre Larouche
Leandre Larouche is a writer, coach, and the founder of Trivium Writing.
