Adapting to Change: What Couperin.org’s Stance Signals for the Future of Scholarly Publishing in France
In recent years, the French consortium Couperin.org has played a pivotal role in reshaping the scholarly publishing landscape in France. Representing more than 250 academic and research institutions, Couperin has chosen on several occasions not to renew national license agreements with major scientific publishers such as Elsevier and Springer Nature. These decisions grounded in concerns over pricing, transparency, and alignment with national open science priorities are not just local events; they reflect broader shifts in the global publishing ecosystem.
Understanding the Drivers Behind Couperin’s Position
Couperin’s actions are often rooted in principled negotiation. High subscription costs, a lack of transparency in usage data, and publishing models that fall short of France’s open science objectives have all contributed to failed or stalled agreements. For example, Couperin ended negotiations with Elsevier in 2018 after years of unresolved discussions. More recently, Springer Nature’s “Publish & Read” model was declined due to misalignment with the publishing output and budgetary expectations of French institutions.
Other publishers, including Wiley, Taylor & Francis, and the American Chemical Society, have similarly encountered protracted negotiations or only partial uptake of their proposed deals. These are not isolated disagreements they are part of a growing demand for greater equity, transparency, and value in scholarly communications.
When National Agreements Falter: What Happens Next?
For publishers, the end of a national-level deal can present operational and reputational challenges. However, the absence of a broad agreement doesn’t necessarily equate to disengagement. Many French institutions remain open to direct conversations particularly when approached with transparency, flexibility, and a genuine understanding of their needs.
In these circumstances, publishers may need to rethink how they interact with the market. Building localized, institution-level relationships becomes not just a contingency plan, but a strategic approach. Engagement can continue through webinars, custom proposals, or targeted outreach focusing on how to meet evolving institutional priorities.
Navigating Complexity with Local Insight
France’s research environment is shaped by its public funding model, evolving national policy, and a strong emphasis on open science. Publishers looking to maintain a presence must recognize that success depends not only on what they offer but how they engage.
Understanding the policy frameworks institutions operate within, being sensitive to language and communication norms, and tailoring approaches to individual institutions are increasingly important. Market presence today requires more than availability it demands cultural and operational alignment.
Looking Beyond the Deal: Toward Sustainable Engagement
What Couperin’s actions reveal is a wider call for innovation in how scholarly content is accessed, priced, and valued. Publishers that can adapt by engaging at multiple levels and embracing more open, transparent models are better positioned for long-term success in France and beyond.
This evolving landscape invites all stakeholders publishers, institutions, and intermediaries alike to consider more collaborative and flexible models. National deals remain important, but sustainable impact comes from meaningful relationships built over time, grounded in mutual understanding.
As the French example shows, disruption in one area can be an opportunity to recalibrate, refocus, and realign strategies for a more equitable and responsive publishing ecosystem.
This article draws on insights from KGL Accucoms’ work with publishers and academic institutions across Europe.
If you would like to discuss the French market or have any questions, please feel free to contact us:
Estelle Saevarsson, Regional Sales Manager, KGL Accucoms
Estelle.Saevarsson@kwglobal.com