Digital new chapter for indie bookshops

By JENNY LITTLE
Updated:

Small independent bookshops are looking at ways to reinvent themselves for the digital age to fend off the threat posed by larger retailers.

Times are tough for all booksellers - Waterstone's, the UK's last major book chain, is closing more stores - and smaller retailers are not being spared.

Booksellers' Association chief executive Tim Godfray says: 'Price competition is the number one concern for most independents, with increased competition from the internet and supermarkets. Punitive High Street property costs and the need for investment in digital opportunities make for a tough trading environment.'

TIM O'KELLY

A nice place to be: Tim O'Kelly, owner of One Tree Books


There are almost 1,200 independents in Britain, generating about £371 million in annual sales. Last year 50 new shops opened, up 20 per cent on 2009, but 72 also closed in 2010.

Successful bookshops increasingly offer author readings, book clubs and children's events. More independents now sell e-books. Some are creating 'click and collect' websites where customers visit them online to order a book but must pick it up at the shop.

Tim O'Kelly's customers at One Tree Books in Petersfield, Hampshire, may pop in to buy just a book, but often leave also with a board game, sheet music or even a ticket to a local event.

Tim, 47, says: 'We have to offer more than good customer service. We've created a nice, useful place to be, while retaining a depth of knowledge about books.'

Industry magazine The Bookseller awarded One Tree Books its Independent Bookseller of the Year award in 2010. The shop has a turnover of £450,000 a year and 15 part-time staff.

Tim adds: 'The stereotype used to be a fusty retired character running a shop. The sector is flourishing because independents now give local people what they want.'

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