Kobo announces ‘triple digit’ growth numbers

Kobo says it has seen a marked increase in eBook and eReader sales over the past year.

The company says eBook downloads by 400 percent while eReader sales were up by 160 percent.

In the UK and Europe the company is locked in a three-way battle with Amazon’s Kindle and Apple’s iBook for customers and sales.

Books sold by Kobo use Adobe’s DRM system making them compatible with other brands of eReaders and the availability of apps means customers can read books across most major mobile and computer platforms.

“We’re thrilled to introduce Kobo’s open eReading platform and the Kobo ‘Read Freely’ philosophy to new countries around the world,” says Michael Serbinis, CEO of Kobo.

“It’s become increasingly clear that the world of eReading is the way of the future and as technology continues to break down geographic borders, Kobo is excited to lead the charge into new markets and continue to shape the future of the multi-billion dollar eReading industry.”

The company was recently purchased by Japanese retail giant Rakuten and has partnership deals with major high street retailers such as WHSmith.

“Strong eReader growth is projected by IDC for the European market; with sales increasing over 400% to 9.6-million devices expected in market by 2015. We expect Kobo’s trajectory for international growth and user adoption to quickly meet and exceed market projections,” said Serbinis.

“We have set the standard for helping our consumers engage in reading in new and meaningful ways, while delivering on our promise to help retailers, authors and publishers take advantage of this emerging market. In two years, we’ve done what others couldn’t in ten.”

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