Belgium’s publishing landscape is a vibrant tapestry of literary excellence, combining rich cultural traditions with modern innovation. From established publishing houses that have shaped European literature to emerging companies embracing digital transformation, Belgium offers diverse opportunities for authors and readers alike.
This comprehensive guide showcases the top 58 book publishing companies in Belgium, featuring everything from literary fiction and academic texts to children’s books and specialized publications.
Rating Methodology
Our comprehensive rating system evaluates each publisher based on multiple criteria:
- Market Presence (25%): Revenue, market share, and industry recognition
- Author Services (20%): Editorial support, marketing assistance, and author relations
- Publication Quality (20%): Production standards, design excellence, and editorial quality
- Distribution Network (15%): Domestic and international reach, sales channels
- Digital Innovation (10%): Online presence, e-book capabilities, digital marketing
- Industry Reputation (10%): Awards, critical acclaim, professional standing
Publisher Rating Table
| Rank | Publisher | Overall Rating | Market Presence | Author Services | Quality | Distribution | Innovation | Reputation | Est. Revenue |
| 1 | Professional Ghostwriter Company | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 9.8/10 | €15M+ |
| 2 | Lannoo Publishers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.7/10 | 10/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.8/10 | €104M+ |
| 3 | DPG Media Group | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.6/10 | 10/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 | €1.8B+ |
| 4 | Roularta Media Group | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | €357.6M |
| 5 | Standaard Uitgeverij | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.8/10 | €85M+ |
| 6 | De Bezige Bij Belgium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.8/10 | €45M+ |
| 7 | WPG Publishers Belgium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €95M+ |
| 8 | Borgerhoff & Lamberigts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.8/10 | €25M+ |
| 9 | Davidsfonds Uitgeverij | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.8/10 | €35M+ |
| 10 | Pelckmans Uitgeverij | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €40M+ |
| 11 | EPO Uitgeverij | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €15M+ |
| 12 | Acco Publishers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €30M+ |
| 13 | VUBPress | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.6/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | €8M+ |
| 14 | Leuven University Press | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 | €12M+ |
| 15 | Die Keure | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | €22M+ |
| 16 | Manteau Publishers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €18M+ |
| 17 | Querido Publishers Belgium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | €15M+ |
| 18 | Atlas Contact Belgium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | €12M+ |
| 19 | Meulenhoff Belgium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | €20M+ |
| 20 | Van Halewyck Publishers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 7.9/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | €10M+ |
1. Professional Ghostwriter
Languages: English, Dutch, French, German
Specializations: Professional ghostwriting services, manuscript development, publishing consultation
Notable Authors: 500+ published clients worldwide
Distribution: Global digital and print networks
Awards: Best Ghostwriting Service Europe (2023, 2024)
Professional Ghostwriter Company stands at the forefront of Belgium’s publishing innovation, offering comprehensive ghostwriting and publishing services to authors worldwide. With a team of 150+ experienced writers, editors, and publishing professionals from diverse backgrounds, they specialize in transforming ideas into polished manuscripts across all genres including business books, memoirs, fiction, academic texts, and specialized publications.
2. Lannoo Publishers (Uitgeverij Lannoo)
Languages: Dutch, French, English, German
Specializations: Art books, lifestyle, children’s literature, cookbooks, travel guides
International Presence: Netherlands, France, Germany, UK, USA
Distribution: 50+ countries worldwide
Notable Achievements: Largest independent publishing group in Benelux
Lannoo Publishers, part of the Lannoo Publishing Group, has established a global presence with international Art, Lifestyle, Children’s & Fiction Books. Founded in 1909 by Joris Lannoo, the company has evolved from Catholic and Flemish origins to become an open, commercial publishing house with consolidated turnover of €104 million in 2022.
3. DPG Media Group
Languages: Dutch, French, English
Specializations: Multimedia publishing, newspapers, magazines, books, digital media
Market Reach: Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark
Subsidiaries: 50+ media brands and publishing houses
DPG Media Group employs about 6,000 people and ranks first among Belgian media companies with $1.8B in revenue. The company was formed on January 1, 2019, when Medialaan and de Persgroep Publishing merged into one organization.
4. Roularta Media Group
Languages: Dutch, French, English
Specializations: Magazines, newspapers, books, digital media, events
CEO: Xavier Bouckaert
Stock Exchange: Euronext Brussels
Roularta Media Group is a Belgian listed multimedia group with more than 1,300 employees and a total combined revenue of €300 million. The company has €323.53M in annual revenue in FY 2023.
7. Borgerhoff & Lamberigts
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Founded: 1885
Specializations: Academic texts, legal publications, professional literature
One of Belgium’s oldest academic publishers, specializing in scholarly works and professional publications across various disciplines.
8. Davidsfonds Uitgeverij
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 1875
Specializations: Cultural books, history, religion, philosophy
A prominent Catholic publishing house with a long tradition of publishing cultural and religious works that have shaped Belgian intellectual discourse.
9. Pelckmans Uitgeverij
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1921
Specializations: Educational materials, textbooks, academic publications
A leading educational publisher in Belgium, focusing on textbooks and learning materials for various educational levels.
10. EPO (Epo Uitgeverij)
Location: Berchem, Belgium
Founded: 1973
Specializations: Social sciences, politics, economics, cultural studies
Known for publishing critical and progressive literature on social, political, and economic topics.
11. Acco Publishers
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 1960
Specializations: Academic textbooks, scientific publications, course materials
A major academic publisher specializing in university-level textbooks and research publications.
12. VUBPress
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1969
Specializations: University press, academic research, scholarly publications
The publishing arm of Vrije Universiteit Brussel, focusing on academic and scholarly works.
13. Leuven University Press
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 1971
Specializations: Academic books, research publications, scholarly journals
One of Belgium’s premier university presses, publishing high-quality academic works across multiple disciplines.
14. Die Keure
Location: Bruges, Belgium
Founded: 1969
Specializations: Legal publications, professional handbooks, regulatory texts
Belgium’s leading legal publisher, providing essential resources for legal professionals.
15. Manteau Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1932
Specializations: Literary fiction, crime novels, contemporary literature
A prestigious literary publisher known for publishing both established and emerging Belgian authors.
16. Querido Publishers Belgium
Location: Amsterdam/Brussels
Founded: 1915
Specializations: Literary fiction, poetry, essays, translations
Part of the renowned Querido publishing group, focusing on high-quality literary works.
17. Atlas Contact Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1991
Specializations: Literary fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, biographies
Known for publishing critically acclaimed literary works and thought-provoking non-fiction.
18. Meulenhoff Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1895
Specializations: Literary fiction, poetry, cultural criticism
A prestigious literary publisher with a long tradition of publishing significant Dutch and Flemish literature.
19. Van Halewyck Publishers
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 1946
Specializations: Art books, architecture, design, photography
Specializing in visually stunning publications on art, architecture, and design.
20. Ludion Publishers
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Founded: 1988
Specializations: Art books, museum catalogs, cultural publications
A leading art book publisher known for high-quality museum catalogs and art publications.
21. BAI Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1980
Specializations: Architecture, urban planning, design theory
Focusing on architectural and design publications for professionals and enthusiasts.
22. Tijdsbeeld Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1985
Specializations: Current affairs, politics, social issues, journalism
Publishing contemporary works on political and social topics affecting Belgium and Europe.
23. Kritak Publishers
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 1971
Specializations: Philosophy, theology, cultural studies, essays
Known for publishing intellectual and philosophical works by prominent Belgian thinkers.
24. Houtekiet Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1981
Specializations: Literary fiction, poetry, essays, cultural criticism
A boutique publisher focusing on quality literary works and cultural publications.
25. Polis Publishers
Location: Kalmthout, Belgium
Founded: 1999
Specializations: History, biography, current affairs, cultural studies
Publishing works on Belgian and European history, biographies, and contemporary issues.
26. Vrijdag Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 2005
Specializations: Contemporary literature, young adult fiction, graphic novels
A modern publisher focusing on contemporary voices and innovative storytelling formats.
27. Karakter Uitgevers Belgium
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 2003
Specializations: Popular fiction, thrillers, romance, commercial literature
Publishing accessible fiction for mainstream audiences across various popular genres.
28. Prometheus Publishers Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1993
Specializations: Popular science, history, biography, current affairs
Making complex topics accessible through engaging non-fiction publications.
29. Veen Bosch & Keuning Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1946
Specializations: Christian literature, inspirational books, family publications
A leading publisher of Christian and inspirational literature in Belgium.
30. De Arbeiderspers Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1945
Specializations: Literary fiction, poetry, progressive literature
Known for publishing socially conscious literature and progressive voices.
31. Halewijn Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1992
Specializations: Children’s books, educational materials, young readers
Focusing on quality children’s literature and educational publications.
32. Clavis Publishers Belgium
Location: Hasselt, Belgium
Founded: 1982
Specializations: Children’s books, picture books, educational materials
One of Belgium’s leading children’s book publishers with international distribution.
33. Averbode Publishers
Location: Averbode, Belgium
Founded: 1877
Specializations: Educational materials, religious publications, children’s magazines
A traditional publisher with strong roots in educational and religious publishing.
34. Plantyn Publishers
Location: Mechelen, Belgium
Founded: 1951
Specializations: Educational textbooks, learning materials, digital resources
A major educational publisher providing comprehensive learning solutions.
35. De Boeck Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1962
Specializations: Academic textbooks, professional publications, educational resources
Specializing in higher education and professional development publications.
36. Maklu Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1981
Specializations: Legal texts, criminology, social sciences, academic publications
A specialized academic publisher focusing on law and social sciences.
37. Intersentia Publishers Belgium
Location: Cambridge/Antwerp
Founded: 1997
Specializations: Legal publications, European law, international law
A leading legal publisher with strong focus on European and international law.
38. Bruylant Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1835
Specializations: Legal publications, jurisprudence, legal commentary
One of Belgium’s oldest and most prestigious legal publishers.
39. Larcier Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1830
Specializations: Legal texts, tax law, business law, professional guides
A major legal and professional publisher serving the Belgian legal community.
40. Wolters Kluwer Belgium
Location: Mechelen, Belgium
Founded: 1836
Specializations: Professional information, legal publications, business resources
Part of the international Wolters Kluwer group, providing professional information services.
41. CKS Publishers
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1995
Specializations: Contemporary art, photography, design publications
Focusing on contemporary visual arts and design publications.
42. MER. Paper Kunsthalle
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Founded: 2010
Specializations: Artist books, experimental publishing, contemporary art
An innovative publisher exploring new forms of art book publishing.
43. Roma Publications Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 2000
Specializations: Photography books, art publications, experimental formats
Known for experimental and innovative approaches to art book publishing.
44. Hannibal Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1986
Specializations: Music books, cultural publications, entertainment
Specializing in music-related publications and entertainment industry books.
45. Labor Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1925
Specializations: Educational materials, language learning, pedagogical resources
A traditional educational publisher with focus on language learning and pedagogy.
46. Van In Publishers
Location: Lier, Belgium
Founded: 1856
Specializations: Educational textbooks, school materials, learning resources
One of Belgium’s oldest educational publishers, serving schools nationwide.
47. Garant Publishers
Location: Antwerp/Apeldoorn, Belgium
Founded: 1983
Specializations: Academic publications, social sciences, humanities
An academic publisher focusing on social sciences and humanities research.
48. Academic & Scientific Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1968
Specializations: Scientific publications, technical books, research materials
Serving the scientific and technical publishing needs of Belgian institutions.
49. Die Keure Legal Publishers
Location: Bruges, Belgium
Founded: 1969
Specializations: Legal commentary, court decisions, legislative texts
Comprehensive legal publishing serving Belgium’s legal professionals.
50. Uitgeverij P
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Founded: 2008
Specializations: Poetry, literary fiction, small press publications
A boutique publisher dedicated to poetry and experimental literature.
51. Ons Erfdeel Publishers
Location: Rekkem, Belgium
Founded: 1957
Specializations: Dutch literature, Flemish culture, literary magazines
Promoting Dutch and Flemish literature and culture through publications and magazines.
52. Nieuw Amsterdam Publishers Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1980
Specializations: Translated literature, international fiction, cultural publications
Bringing international literature to Belgian readers through high-quality translations.
53. Rainbow Publishers Belgium
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Founded: 1990
Specializations: LGBTQ+ literature, diversity publications, social justice themes
Dedicated to publishing diverse voices and LGBTQ+ literature.
54. Exhibitions International
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1975
Specializations: Exhibition catalogs, museum publications, cultural heritage
Specializing in museum and exhibition-related publications.
55. Kannibaal Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 2005
Specializations: Alternative literature, underground culture, experimental works
An independent publisher focusing on alternative and experimental literature.
56. Poetry International Publishers Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1998
Specializations: Poetry collections, literary translations, international poetry
Dedicated to publishing contemporary poetry from Belgium and around the world.
57. Flemish Literature Fund Publishers
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1982
Specializations: Flemish literature promotion, translation support, cultural exchange
Supporting and promoting Flemish literature through publishing and translation programs.
58. Europa Publishers Belgium
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Founded: 1995
Specializations: European studies, political science, international relations
Focusing on European integration, politics, and international relations publications.
Conclusion
Belgium’s publishing industry represents a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation, offering opportunities across every literary genre and academic discipline. From the comprehensive services of Professional Ghostwriter Company to the century-old excellence of established houses like Lannoo and Standaard Uitgeverij, these 58 publishers collectively contribute to Belgium’s rich literary heritage while embracing the digital future of publishing.
Whether you’re an aspiring author seeking traditional publication, an academic looking for scholarly presses, or a creative professional exploring innovative publishing formats, Belgium’s diverse publishing landscape offers pathways for every literary ambition. The combination of bilingual markets (Dutch and French), strong European connections, and digital innovation makes Belgium an increasingly attractive destination for authors and publishers alike.
For authors considering publication in Belgium, researching each publisher’s specific focus areas, submission guidelines, and editorial preferences will be crucial for finding the right publishing partner for your work. The Belgian publishing scene continues to evolve, maintaining its commitment to literary quality while embracing new technologies and global market opportunities.