The Bird Interview: Luiz Schwarcz

The Bird talks to Luiz Schwarcz, Founder and CEO of Companhia, about the company's new partnership with Penguin.

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Last week, John Makinson announced the news that Penguin has deepened its partnership with Companhia das Letras, the most highly regarded publishing house in Latin America, by acquiring a 45% stake in the company. Companhia was established 25 years ago by Luiz Schwarcz and in that time, Luiz and his team have built the company into what can only be described as the best publishing company in Brazil. Penguin has been working closely with them for several years now—back in 2009 both companies made history after partnering to launch the Penguin Companhia classics publishing joint venture—it was the first time an English language publisher had published classics in Portuguese.

The Bird caught up with Companhia founder and CEO Luiz Schwarcz this week to talk about the history behind the partnership, what it means for Companhia and what Penguin can look forward to as it enters the Brazilian book market.

What are your thoughts on Penguin's new stake in Companhia das Letras? Let us know on NEO.