Active Interest Media, the parent of Soundings Trade Only, has acquired The Taunton Press, a consumer media and book publisher based in Newtown, Conn.
“AIM and Taunton are closely aligned on several important fronts. While the symmetry of many of our core markets is obvious — woodworking, gardening and homebuilding — there are many other similarities,” AIM CEO Andrew Clurman said in a statement. “Strategically, like AIM, Taunton has been aggressively pursuing the creation of new digital products, memberships and online learning to better serve their audiences. Most importantly, Taunton shares with AIM a commitment to growing and promoting both the communities we serve and our fantastic teams dedicated to that mission.”
With this acquisition, AIM is making several organizational changes.
• Brian VanHeuverswyn was named chief operating officer. His responsibilities include leadership of consumer marketing, technology, and the Home Arts, Homebuilding, Writer’s Digest, and Collectibles brands.
• Gary DeSanctis was named chief revenue officer. He will have responsibility for all AIM revenue derived from advertising, sponsorships and marketing services.
• Adam Smith joined the company as chief financial officer and is charged with leading finance, planning and the accounting team with additional oversight for human resources.
• Other additions include the appointment of Taunton’s Erica Moynihan to senior vice president of marketing. Also joining AIM from Taunton is Rob Yagid, who was named senior vice president, content, AIM Home Group.
“AIM will be an excellent home for Taunton,” said Andrea Roman, board chair of The Taunton Press. “The two companies share a dedication to producing high-quality information and inspiring enthusiasts for hands-on living. AIM’s leadership, scale and resources will provide a strong foundation for the next generation of Taunton’s growth, and the combined organization will provide new opportunities for our employees.”
