Audioteka

Audioteka is an audio content provider that established an early presence in the Polish audiobook market. Founded in 2008 by Marcin Beme, the company emerged from his personal interest in listening to audiobooks during long drives and his professional experience in technology and media production. Beme, a graduate in economics, math, and computer science, identified a gap in the market for a dedicated digital audiobook platform in Poland, inspired by the American service Audible.com.

The company's primary business revolves around a mobile application and website that serves as a platform for distributing and selling audio content. Audioteka operates on a hybrid revenue model. Customers can purchase audiobooks individually, receiving perpetual access to the files. Alternatively, the company generates recurring revenue through its subscription service, "Audioteka Klub," which provides users with unlimited streaming access to a vast catalog for a monthly fee. There is also a credit-based subscription, "Audioteka Plus," where a monthly fee provides a credit for any audiobook, which the user then owns permanently. This model caters to both heavy listeners and occasional buyers.

The service offers a library of over 40,000 titles, with a significant focus on Polish-language content, but also includes materials in German, Czech, Lithuanian, and Slovak. The product portfolio extends beyond traditional audiobooks to include audio series, podcasts, audio documentaries, guided meditations, and news programs. A key differentiator for Audioteka is its investment in high-production value original content, referred to as "superproductions." These feature large casts of well-known actors, specially composed music, and detailed sound effects, exemplified by their production of George R.R. Martin's "Game of Thrones," which involved over 100 actors. This focus on proprietary, high-quality content serves as a significant draw for users.

A major milestone in the company's history was its acquisition by Wirtualna Polska Holding. The process began in September 2022 with the purchase of a 60% stake and was completed in August 2023, with the total valuation reaching nearly €17 million. This acquisition integrated Audioteka into a larger media group, aiming to diversify revenue streams for Wirtualna Polska and expand Audioteka's reach. Prior to the acquisition, founder Marcin Beme had stepped down as CEO in 2020. The company has also expanded internationally, operating in 23 countries.

Keywords: audiobook, audio content, subscription service, audio series, podcast platform, digital publishing, superproductions, Polish audiobooks, mobile application, audio entertainment, spoken-word entertainment, digital media, content streaming, Wirtualna Polska Holding, Marcin Beme, audioserials, audio documentaries, Polish literature, European audio market, e-learning, digital storytelling, mindfulness audio