Abstract: A stacking of fragile articles, particularly printed matter, is achieved in a substantially frictionless manner in order to eliminate damage. The stacking apparatus includes a feed system wherein incoming books are at least in part supported on an air cushion as they are formed into rows which are subsequently transferred onto a sliding platform which also, at least in part, establishes an air cushion beneath the articles. Movements are imparted to the sliding platform such that it may be retracted from under the feed system once a formed row of articles has been transferred thereto to gently deposit the row on a pallet or preformed stack supported on a pallet.