Pearson Italia
Pearson Italia is the Italian branch of Pearson PLC, providing university textbooks, digital learning platforms (MyLab, Mastering, Pearson+), AI-powered study tools, and English language certifications to universities, schools, and learners across Italy.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2007
- HeadquartersTurin, Italy
- Headcount251–500
- GTM typeB2B and B2C
- OfferingSoftware
What Pearson Italia does
Pearson Italia is the Italian operating branch of Pearson Benelux BV (a Dutch private limited company wholly owned by Pearson PLC, the London-listed global education group, ticker PSON). Operating as a secondary office (Sede Secondaria Italiana) headquartered in Milan, the company provides educational content, digital learning platforms, and English language certifications to the Italian market across higher education, K-12, and English language learning segments. Its higher education portfolio includes MyLab and Mastering digital learning platforms, eTextbooks delivered through the Pearson+ platform, and institutional tools such as Pearson Text Builder (custom eText creation from ~500 Italian and 75,000+ international titles), Pearson RUN (university LMS integration), and All Access (annual unlimited institutional licensing). The English language portfolio spans courseware (My Disney Stars and Heroes, Wider World, Speakout), Pearson English Readers graded readers, and certifications (PEIC, PTE Academic, Versant 4-Skills, PEIC Young Learners) delivered through the Edexcel Limited partnership.
The company monetizes through a mix of revenue streams: one-time textbook licenses (physical and digital), recurring subscription fees for digital platforms and All Access institutional licenses, and transactional exam fees for English certifications (priced €60-€230 per candidate across CEFR levels). Go-to-market relies on a national field-sales force of regional university consultants, e-commerce via the Pearson Store (he.pearson.it), book distribution through Messaggerie Libri SpA, K-12 distribution through the Sanoma Italia partnership, and a network of certified test centres managed by Certcomp for PEIC exams. AI capabilities are integrated across the product portfolio, including the generative AI-powered Pearson AI Study Tool, AI-proctored Versant assessments, adaptive Study Prep, and AI-driven recommendation in All Access. The company holds ISO 9001 (since 2001) and ISO 22301 (since 2019) certifications, and operates with 251-500 employees across Italian regions.
Pearson Italia firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Pearson Italia
- Legal name
- Pearson Benelux BV, Sede Secondaria Italiana
- Website
- https://it.pearson.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2007
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 251–500 employees
- Short description
- Pearson Italia is the Italian branch of Pearson PLC, providing university textbooks, digital learning platforms (MyLab, Mastering, Pearson+), AI-powered study tools, and English language certifications to universities, schools, and learners across Italy.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Pearson Italia industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Educational Publishing
- NAICS
- Educational Services (611), Exam Preparation and Tutoring (611691), Language Schools (611630), Educational Support Services (61171)
- SIC
- Services-Educational Services (8200), Miscellaneous Publishing (2741)
- akta.pro primary industry
- General ESL/EFL Coursebooks & Integrated Skills Series (EDAGAHAA)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Language Proficiency Exam Prep (CEFR, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE) (EDANACAD), Integrated Language + Academic Skills (EAP) Bridging Programs (EDAIAJAF)
Keywords
Where Pearson Italia is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Turin
- HQ country
- Italy
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices4 records
Markets served
Pearson Italia business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B and B2C
- Offering type
- Software
- Cost components
- Personnel, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Marketing or Sales, Operations
Revenue model
- Higher Education Textbooks: Sale of physical and digital textbooks for university courses through catalogs and platforms like he.pearson.it. Content is created and curated in collaboration with academic authors and experts.
- Digital Learning Platforms: Subscription-based access to MyLab, Mastering, and other digital platforms providing exercises, assessments, and learning tools integrated with textbooks.
- English Language Certifications: Revenue from English language testing and certification services including PEIC (Pearson English International Certificate), PTE Academic, and Versant tests. Offered in partnership with Edexcel Limited.
- eTextbooks and Digital Content: Sale of digital textbooks and learning materials through Pearson+ platform with AI Study Tool integration.
- Institutional Licensing (All Access): Annual quotas and unlimited licenses for comprehensive institutional access to digital titles and platforms, providing equity access to all students.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level A1 |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level 2 (A2) |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level 3 (B1) |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level 4 (B2) |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level 5 (C1) |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | PEIC Online Level 6 (C2) |
| Transaction based/ take rate | Pay-as-you-go | Versant by Pearson English Certificate 4-Skills |
| Subscription | Annual | All Access Institutional License |
| Subscription | Pay-as-you-go | Carta Giovani National Discount |
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels6 records
Marketing channels7 records
Pearson Italia product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Pearson Italia is the Italian arm of global education publisher Pearson, providing physical and digital textbooks, eTextbooks, and digital learning platforms (MyLab, Mastering, Pearson+, Pearson Text Builder) for higher education institutions, alongside English language learning courseware, graded readers, and internationally recognized English proficiency certifications (PEIC, PTE Academic, Versant) for schools, universities, and individual learners across Italy.
Product overview
Pearson Italia is the Italian arm of the global Pearson education group, offering a multi-segment portfolio spanning higher education (university textbooks, digital platforms, AI-powered study tools), English language learning (courseware, graded readers, language certifications), and institutional partnerships. The higher education offering is anchored by the MyLab and Mastering digital platforms (customizable exercises and assessments), augmented by the newer AI Study Tool and Study Prep — both leveraging generative AI — and supplemented by Pearson Text Builder for custom eText creation, Pearson RUN for university content libraries, and All Access for unlimited institutional licensing. The eTextbook and Pearson+ platform serve as the delivery layer for digital content. The English language portfolio includes the Connected English Learning Program (Wider World, Speakout, My Disney Stars and Heroes), the Pearson English Readers graded reading series, and language certification products (Versant 4-Skills, PEIC, PTE Academic, PEIC Young Learners). AI capabilities are primarily embedded in the study tools and assessment products, while partnerships with VitalSource and EDUNEXT extend reach into library distribution and institutional digital learning networks.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- MyLab: Digital learning and assessment platform for university students
- Mastering
- Pearson+
- Pearson AI Study Tool
- Study Prep
- Learning Catalytics
- Pearson English Readers
- Versant
- Pearson English International Certificate (PEIC)
- Pearson English International Certificate Young Learners
- PTE Academic
- RUN - Reaching University Needs
- Pearson Text Builder
- All Access
Products and services
- MyLab Digital learning and assessment platform that allows customization of exercises and evaluations, enabling personalized learning, concept consolidation, and deeper understanding for university students.
- Mastering Active and immersive learning platform for STEM students, featuring authoritative content and customizable digital tools to master key concepts.
- Pearson AI Study Tool AI-powered study assistant that combines generative AI with authoritative Pearson content to provide step-by-step explanations, personalized summaries, and on-demand learning support, transforming student errors into learning opportunities.
- Study Prep Adaptive study platform offering short targeted videos, practice exercises, and AI-powered support 24/7 to help students prepare for exams by uploading study schedules and tracking progress.
- eTextbook Digital textbooks with integrated study tools on Pearson+ that allow students to choose their preferred learning method, combining text, audio, video, and interactive exercises.
- Learning Catalytics Interactive, responsive classroom engagement system that promotes discussion, peer learning, and active participation in university settings.
- Pearson RUN (Reaching University Needs) Digital learning environment project offering university content libraries — structured in Teaching, Learning, and Testing packages — accessible directly on the university platform, across STEM, Humanities, Business, and Economics disciplines.
- Pearson Text Builder (PTB) Custom eText creation tool allowing university instructors to select and combine content from the Italian and international Pearson catalog (approximately 500 Italian and 75,000 international titles) into a single personalized digital product.
- All Access AI-based learning platform model offering unlimited access to digital titles and platforms under an annual license covering an institution's full course catalog, with analytics on student engagement.
- Pearson+ Digital platform hosting eTextbooks and related study tools, enabling students to access and navigate the full catalog through a single login for a seamless learning experience.
- Pearson English Readers Gradually leveled English reading series (graded readers) including Disney and Marvel adaptations, classic literature, and original titles, aligned to CEFR and GSE standards, spanning over 200 titles across primary and secondary school levels.
- Versant by Pearson English Certificate 4-Skills AI-proctored English proficiency test covering all four language skills (listening, reading, writing, speaking), completable in one hour or less from home or any institution.
- Pearson English International Certificate (PEIC) Internationally recognized English language certification assessing four skills (listening, reading, writing, speaking) aligned to CEFR, offered in partnership with Edexcel Limited and accredited by Ofqual, with results valid for life.
- PTE Academic Fully computer-based academic English test certifying proficiency level, accepted by universities and colleges worldwide, assessing all four language skills through a real-world communicative approach.
- Pearson English International Certificate Young Learners Fun and engaging English certification for students aged 8-13, available at four levels (Firstwords through Breakthrough) assessing listening, reading, writing, and speaking, aligned to CEFR.
- Connected English Learning Program Integrated English language learning solution combining courseware (My Disney Stars and Heroes, Wider World, Speakout), assessments, and certifications powered by the Global Scale of English for young, teen, and adult learners.
- Mondly by Pearson Mobile language learning app featuring cutting-edge AI technology to build learner autonomy and drive engagement through AI-powered conversational practice.
- Beyond Labz Virtual and immersive science labs for Chemistry, Physics, and Biology that allow students to gain practical experience in a safe and realistic online environment.
- Versant English Test Remote English assessment system using AI-based proctoring (webcam, microphone, and browser monitoring) to ensure exam integrity, with results delivered digitally.
Quantifiable outcome
- 98% of Pearson eTextbooks have audio functionality for accessibility
- +1 more outcomes
Companies that use Pearson Italia
Customer profileNamed customers13 records
Segments4 records
Ideal customer profiles4 records
Pearson Italia technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration2 records
AI capability10 records
Feature8 records
Pearson Italia partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- EDUNEXTcoreCollaboration to support more flexible digital learning models and foster new knowledge-sharing opportunities within a network of universities and institutional partners.
- Società Italiana di eLearning (ISYDE)coreSupport for Italian Symposium on Digital Education (ISYDE) and promotion of digital and media education for universal and inclusive access to higher education and lifelong learning.
- Edexcel LimitedcorePartnership with UK's largest academic qualifications body for providing internationally recognized English language certifications (PEIC, PTE Academic) recognized in Italy by MIM.
- VitalSourceminorOne of the world's leading ebook distributors, offering university libraries the possibility to subscribe to customized collections of digital books from Italian and international catalogs for library lending.
- SIMA (Società Italiana di Marketing)minorCollaboration for exclusive collection of refereed and selected monographs in digital Pearson eText or print format, promoting innovative ideas from young researchers.
- Università degli Studi di Milano - Dipartimento di Studi StoricicoreCollaboration since 2016 for creating a book series, a journal, and three textbooks, directed by Prof. Antonino De Francesco.
- Società Italiana di StatisticaminorInitiatives and collaborations to promote development of statistical sciences through conferences, publications, and partnerships with related organizations nationally and internationally.
- Università di Modena e Reggio EmiliaminorPatronage of Media Education per la Scuola online specialization course providing essential tools for Media Education and Distance Learning.
- Associazione Italiana DislessiacoreStoria ad Alta Accessibilità project: three digital products inspired by inclusion and Universal Learning themes, providing equal learning access opportunities. Approved by AID.
- Politecnico di MilanominorMOOC (Massive Open Online Course) collaboration for teachers: Designing Learning Innovation, integrated with the book Progettare l'Innovazione Didattica.
- Sanoma ItaliacorePartnership for distribution of school products (primary and secondary) through Sanoma Italia website and network, including editorial proposals and teacher resources.
- CertcompcoreOfficial distributor of PEIC exams in Italy, managing test centre network and exam administration for Pearson English certifications.
Scale indicators5 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Pearson Italia competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Hoepli: Long-standing Italian publisher of university textbooks and reference works; directly competes with Pearson's higher-education catalog in Italy.
- Educational Testing Service (ETS): Owner of the TOEFL family of English proficiency tests; competes with Pearson's PTE Academic, PEIC, and Versant for Italian test takers seeking internationally recognized English credentials.
- Zanichelli: Leading Italian higher-education textbook publisher (e.g., college math, science, humanities); shares shelf space with Pearson in Italian university bookstores and competes for the same professor adoptions.
- Cambridge University Press & Assessment: Closest direct competitor in English language proficiency certification (Cambridge English, IELTS via British Council/IDP) and English-language teaching materials; competes head-to-head with PEIC, PTE Academic, and Versant in Italy.
- Cengage: Higher-education course materials and digital platforms (MindTap, Cengage Unlimited) directly comparable to Pearson's digital learning ecosystem for Italian universities.
- McGraw-Hill Education: Global higher-education textbook and digital learning publisher (e.g., Connect, ALEKS) directly competing with Pearson's MyLab, Mastering, and eTextbook offerings in Italian university market.
- Oxford University Press: Academic and English language learning publisher with substantial presence in Italian schools and universities; overlaps with Pearson English Readers, English courseware, and academic textbooks.
Regional players
- De Agostini Scuola: Italian K-12 textbook and digital content publisher; overlaps with Pearson's school-segment English offerings, which reach Italian schools primarily via the Sanoma Italia partnership.
- Mondadori Education: Italian K-12 and higher-education publisher with strong domestic distribution; competes with Pearson's English language learning materials and is part of the same Italian publishing ecosystem.
Emerging players
- Coursera: Online higher-education platform offering degree programs, professional certificates, and English-language courses; competes with Pearson for university digital learning budgets and student attention in Italy.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat6 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights6 records
Customer concentration
Pearson Italia social profiles
Digital presencePearson Italia compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance4 records
Pearson Italia financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Pearson Italia leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles14 records
Pearson Italia funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Pearson Italia M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Pearson Italia
What does Pearson Italia do?
Pearson Italia is the Italian arm of global education publisher Pearson, providing physical and digital textbooks, eTextbooks, and digital learning platforms (MyLab, Mastering, Pearson+, Pearson Text Builder) for higher education institutions, alongside English language learning courseware, graded readers, and internationally recognized English proficiency certifications (PEIC, PTE Academic, Versant) for schools, universities, and individual learners across Italy.
Is Pearson Italia a public or private company?
Pearson Italia is a private company. It is classified as corporate owned and is currently operating.
When was Pearson Italia founded?
Pearson Italia was founded in 2007. It employs 251 to 500 people.
Where is Pearson Italia based?
Pearson Italia is headquartered in Turin, Italy, in the Europe region.
How does Pearson Italia make money?
Five revenue lines are on record. Higher Education Textbooks are the primary driver. The others are digital Learning Platforms, english Language Certifications, eTextbooks and Digital Content and institutional Licensing (All Access).
Who are Pearson Italia's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Hoepli, Educational Testing Service (ETS), Zanichelli, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, Cengage, McGraw-Hill Education and Oxford University Press. Regional players are De Agostini Scuola and Mondadori Education. Coursera is listed as an emerging player.
Does Pearson Italia have an API?
No public API is recorded for Pearson Italia.
What industry is Pearson Italia in?
Pearson Italia's product category is Educational Publishing. Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAGAHAA, General ESL/EFL Coursebooks & Integrated Skills Series, with a secondary code of EDANACAD, Language Proficiency Exam Prep (CEFR, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE). Its NAICS code is 611 and its SIC code is 8200.