The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) has completed a detailed review of the school textbook market, which serves nearly 8 million students and 1 million teachers each year. The investigation examined how publishers, retailers, and regulations affect prices, choice, and innovation in both paper and digital educational resources.
Market Overview
The AGCM found that the market is highly concentrated. Four major publishers—Mondadori, Zanichelli, Sanoma, and La Scuola—control more than 80% of the sector. Families spend an average of €580 for lower secondary school and €1,250 for upper secondary school. While prices for new books are rising in line with inflation, the cost of textbooks remains a significant burden for families, particularly given uneven support across regions.
Discounts and Competition
Current laws limit discounts on school books to 15% of the cover price, reducing competition and keeping prices high. The AGCM noted that collective agreements between publishers and retailers could improve discount opportunities and benefit consumers if managed appropriately.
Digital and Open Resources
Despite reforms introduced in 2012, digital resources are underutilized. Most classes still use paper books, and only 16% of digital licenses are actively used. The investigation highlighted issues such as restrictive licensing, poor platform compatibility, and limited access for second-hand or shared use. Major publishers have expressed willingness to improve these conditions, potentially allowing longer access, printing of digital content, and reduced costs.
Open-source educational resources (OER) and school self-publishing could also help families save money and encourage innovation, but current regulations and lack of incentives limit their growth.
Next Steps
The AGCM has sent a formal report to the Ministry of Education and Merit with recommendations for improving competition, transparency, and accessibility in the sector. While no formal antitrust sanctions have been imposed, the Authority reserves the right to continue monitoring the market and may take further action if necessary.