Krause Publications: A History of Specialized Publishing
Krause Publications established itself as a powerhouse in the world of niche publishing, specializing in hobbyist periodicals and comprehensive reference guides. Over several decades, the company expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions and a commitment to detailed cataloging, eventually becoming a key imprint within larger media conglomerates.
Growth and Expansion
The company's growth trajectory accelerated in the 1990s. In 1992, Krause expanded its outdoors coverage by acquiring Deer & Deer Hunting and Turkey & Turkey Hunting magazines from Stump Sitters, Inc. This was followed in 1997 by the acquisition of non-automotive book titles from the Chilton Company, further diversifying its literary portfolio.
By June 2002, Krause Publications was acquired by F&W Publications (later known as F+W). At the time of this merger, Krause was a prolific publisher with 46 periodicals and nearly 750 books in print. F+W maintained the Krause name as an imprint to preserve its brand equity in specialized markets.
Relocation and Corporate Transition
In April 2018, the company relocated its operations to Stevens Point, Wisconsin. However, this move preceded a period of significant corporate instability for the parent company.
In June 2019, the assets of F+W were sold via bankruptcy auctions, leading to the fragmentation of the Krause legacy. The book publishing assets and the Krause brand were acquired by Penguin Random House. Meanwhile, the magazine portfolio was split among various entities; for instance, Numismatic News was acquired by Active Interest Media.
The Fate of the Standard Catalog of World Coins
One of the most notable legacies of Krause was the Standard Catalog of World Coins, a definitive reference for coin collectors. The 2019 edition featured both XX and XXI century editions. While Penguin Random House published the 2020 edition of the XX Century Standard Catalog of World Coins, the XXI century edition was never released.
Additionally, the outdoors assets, including Deer & Deer Hunting, were acquired in June 2019 by Media 360 LLC, based in Waupaca, Wisconsin, under the leadership of President Brad Rucks and Vice President Daniel Schmidt.
Key Facts
- 1992: Acquired Deer & Deer Hunting and Turkey & Turkey Hunting magazines.
- 1997: Acquired non-automotive titles from the Chilton Company.
- 2002: Acquired by F+W (then F&W Publications) with 46 periodicals and ~750 books.
- 2018: Moved operations to Stevens Point, Wisconsin.
- 2019: Assets split via bankruptcy auction; Penguin Random House took the brand and books.
| Asset Category | Acquiring Entity |
|---|---|
| Krause Brand & Book Assets | Penguin Random House |
| Numismatic News | Active Interest Media |
| Deer & Deer Hunting / Outdoors Products | Media 360 LLC |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did F+W acquire Krause Publications?
F+W (then known as F&W Publications) acquired Krause Publications in June 2002.
What happened to the Standard Catalog of World Coins?
Penguin Random House published the 2020 edition of the XX Century volume, but the XXI century edition was not released.
Who currently owns the Deer & Deer Hunting assets?
These assets were acquired in June 2019 by Media 360 LLC of Waupaca, Wisconsin.
How many publications did Krause have in 2002?
At the time of its acquisition by F+W, Krause was publishing 46 periodicals and had nearly 750 books in print.
Which company acquired Numismatic News?
Numismatic News was acquired by Active Interest Media during the 2019 bankruptcy auctions of F+W.