InDesign CC 2014 will let you export a Fixed Layout EPUB that looks like a PDF of your layout but is actually an epub. Earlier versions that refer to “EPUB plus Layout” can’t export to Fixed Layout, and in fact the “plus Layout” experimental options was dropped, I think w/CC.

The “regular” reflowable EPUB cannot do multicolumn text.

More info on CC 2014 to fixed layout is here:

Adobe’s New FXL Export

I’m also doing a webinar on it this coming Tuesday, Aug 12 2014 (and after that, the recording should be available on Adobe’s site).
https://creativepro.com/free-fixed-layout-epub-webinar.php

AM

I don’t know any other way than what you describe, unfortunately.

If I were you, I would be tempted to get a quote from a company that does this kind of thing all the time and has scripts and techniques already set up. For example, eBook Architects (now part of Firebrand) would be one I’d ask a quote from. You could always give them 5 or so, see how they do.

https://ebookarchitects.com/

AM

Fixed layout epub format is too new for general “downloading from our website” imo, unless you put up big notices about how it’s diff than a reflowable and what apps to use etc.

But fwiw, Google Play on Android should be able to open and read them but I haven’t tested myself:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.books&hl=en

Fixed layout is more for uploading to iBookstore for now, anyone purchasing from there should be able to read it on their iPad or Mac.

AM

Nicole, Tom’s address is working fine for me, I just checked.

what’s the latest bounce message?

I know this must be frustrating.

You realize this is the incorrect address, right? “Please check the message recipient tom.vene@livrospraja.com and try again.”