Worthy Publishing has announced the company acquisition of Freeman-Smith, a specialty publisher of inspirational gift books, devotionals and custom publishing projects. Freeman-Smith will operate as an imprint of Worthy, and will continue to be headed by company co-founder Ron Smith. Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

"Freeman-Smith has a history of successes," said Byron Williamson, president of Worthy Publishing. "Through our acquisition of Freeman-Smith, Worthy Publishing has gained immediate market share as well as the ability to produce top-quality specialty products for both our authors and our corporate partners."

Founded in 2000, Freeman-Smith has produced several hundred books, including the best-selling "Prayer" and "Food, Fitness and Faith" series. Additionally, the publisher has published two titles in partnership with Big Idea featuring Veggie Tales characters. Freeman-Smith also created products for Howard Books' best-selling "Hugs" series.

"We've become known for creating high-quality books in a short amount of time," said Smith, named publisher of the Freeman-Smith imprint. "We will continue to publish exclusives for our partners as well as gift and specialty product that will be distributed through Worthy's normal channels."

Freeman-Smith's titles will be distributed through EMI Christian Music Group (EMI CMG), Worthy's distribution partner. Formerly president of Word Publishing and the Thomas Nelson/Word Publishing Group and who later founded Integrity Publishers, Williamson launched Worthy Publishing earlier this year.

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