|
I don't really understand the point of this article. With only minor editing, it could be about any big company.
Companies will always seek to make the most profit they can. Often this involves eliminating the competition and paying as little tax as possible.
I know some find some of Amazon's business practices unsavory. Personally, I've never been on the sharp end of that (apart from the boneheaded $2 Surcharge they apply to most e-books for international customers).
As a self-publisher, I know that Amazon are the most "friendly" retailer to work with. By that, I mean they don't actively work to reduce the visibility of our books, and give as an even playing field to take on the work from the large publishers (unlike, say, Apple and Barnes & Noble).
For that, I am grateful. But I'm not naive enough to think they are doing this out of the goodness of their heart. I'm fully aware that just because my interests and Amazon's interests might be aligned for now (poking the Big Six in the eye), that could well be different in the future.
But I am happy with their self-publishing platform: it's easy to use, has great functionality, and allows me to reach customers around the world - all for free.
And as a reader, they have the best online store out there, bar none.
|