Legend Times, the UK-based group of independent publishing companies, has acquired the majority shareholding in University of Buckingham Press

Founder and former Managing Director of University of Buckingham Press (UBP), Christopher Woodhead, has led the press since 2005 and will step aside after the handover. The university will continue to own 25%.

UBP will continue to grow its wide range of book titles in additional to its journal publications.

Legend Times’ initial focus will be a growth of new frontlist titles as well as creating new opportunities for UBP’s strong backlist though connecting it with its expanding international sales and distribution infrastructure.

Founder and former Director of University of Buckingham Press, Christopher Woodhead said: “I am delighted that UBP has joined the Legend Times stable. This will enable UBP to expand and develop whilst leaving its close relationship and links with the University and academic sector intact.”

Tom Chalmers, founder and Managing Director of Legend Times, commented: “We are incredibly excited by the acquisition of UBP. Over the last five years I have become increasingly aware of the huge opportunities within the constantly evolving academic sector as well as being passionate about promoting the UK’s widely-respected university brands. As Legend Times expands, UBP immediately felt like a perfect fit for the next stage in our planned development and growth.

“Christopher has done a fantastic job working in conjunction with The University of Buckingham to build a strong list and publishing company. With that foundation in place, we are very much looking forward to creating an exciting future for UBP.”