Fremantle Press has opened a dedicated audiobook room at its new headquarters at 10 Parry Street, partnering with Osborne Park-based technology firm Stott Hoare to tap into the growing demand for audio content.
State-of-the-Art Recording Facilities
The new audio room is equipped with microphones, audio recording gear, a large screen, and a dedicated laptop as part of a major IT overhaul supported by global tech giant Microsoft. The facility has already been used by authors and community members to record podcasts, interviews, and chapter readings.
CEO Highlights Accessibility and Education
Fremantle Press CEO Alex Allan emphasised the importance of the partnership as interest in audio content surges. Many of the publisher's adult fiction titles have been licensed to global and local audiobook producers. “The impact for the WA community has the potential to be huge — unlocking stories for current and future generations by making them more accessible than ever,” she said. “We want to turn our attention to accessibility and education. How can we make our local stories and rich cultural history available to more listeners — especially kids in schools who may need an audio edition to help them engage?”
Stott Hoare CEO on Reaching New Audiences
Stott Hoare CEO Jim Loader expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “Making books more accessible gives children more opportunities to be inspired and discover how they can make a positive impact on the world.”
The collaboration underscores a broader trend in publishing, where audiobooks are becoming an increasingly important format for reaching diverse audiences, particularly younger listeners and those with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
