Scaling up open access publishing through transformative agreements: Results from 2019 to 2022

Abstract

Key Points The Biochemical Society's transformative Read & Publish (R&P) agreements follow an all‐inclusive and unlimited model (developed in collaboration with other society publishers) that cover all titles, both hybrid and fully open access (OA), and does not place caps on article numbers. This case study shows that these R&P agreements have significantly boosted OA uptake in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. It also shows that the agreements are most effective in regions where there is adequate funding, high research output and a willingness from institutions to engage collectively (through consortium agreements). Where these conditions do not exist alternative models will be needed to complement R&P—in our case we plan to implement Subscribe to Open from 2025 onwards.