NEW YORK / AREA 53 —
Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. (AAWS) has announced an upcoming price increase for its literature, including English, Spanish, and French books, booklets, and pamphlets. The new pricing, approved at the December 2025 meeting of the A.A. World Services Board, will take effect on February 1, 2026.
The Changes at a Glance
The adjustment follows a "prudent fiscal planning" approach to ensure long-term stability for the General Service Office (GSO). The increases are categorized as follows:
- Books: Most items categorized as books (item numbers beginning with B, SB, or FB) will increase by $3.00 per item.
- Other Literature: Booklets, pamphlets, and other literature items will see a 15 percent increase (with standard rounding).
- Literature Sets: Prices for sets will reflect the $3.00 increase for each book included in the set.
- Exception: The A.A. Facsimile First Printing of the First Edition (B-0) will remain at its current discounted price and is the only exception to the book price increase.
Why Prices Are Changing
A.A., like many organizations, has been significantly impacted by economic shifts following the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the "cost of goods sold"—which includes production, materials, warehousing, and shipping—has risen dramatically.
Historically, these costs represented about 31% to 34% of sales. In recent years, they have fluctuated between 42% and 56%, leading to an annual revenue loss exceeding $1.8 million. Because the GSO is supported by both literature sales and voluntary contributions, this adjustment is necessary to continue providing services to the fellowship.
What This Means for Groups
Groups and members are encouraged to review their literature needs before the February 1 deadline. Updated pricing will be reflected in the A.A. Online Store as soon as the increase goes into effect.
The AAWS Board expressed gratitude for the fellowship's understanding, noting that they continue to diligently monitor and reduce expenses where possible, remaining mindful of every "nickel in the basket."
For more details, visit www.aa.org.