Worthy Media arm buys local specialty publisher

Worthy Publishing, the company launched early this year by Christian media veteran Byron Williamson, has acquired Franklin-based specialty publisher Freeman-Smith.

Freeman-Smith was founded 11 years ago and has published the Prayer and Food, Fitness and Faith series. The company also has two Veggie Tales titles published in partnership with Big Idea Entertainment and has created products for Simon & Schuster’s popular HUGS series. Co-founder Ron Smith will continue to run the imprint under the Worthy Publishing umbrella.