Barnes & Noble CEO on Book Business Success and Economic Indicators

Book Business Performance

• 📈 Barnes & Noble has experienced a fantastic year in 2025, with book sales continuing to rise since the pandemic.
• 💡 The growth is attributed to a strong publishing year with a diverse range of books and the retention of reading habits formed during the pandemic.
• 📚 The enjoyment of visiting physical bookstores also contributes to the sustained interest in books.

Audiobooks and Ebooks Impact

• 🎧 The boom in audiobooks and ebooks is seen as complementary to physical book sales, rather than a detractor.
• 🏃 Audio formats are convenient for activities like jogging or exercising, potentially leading listeners to pick up physical books afterward.

Affordability and Value of Books

• 💰 Books offer exceptional value for money compared to other forms of entertainment like dining out, providing hours of engagement for a relatively low cost.
• 🎁 A purchased book remains a tangible asset that can be gifted or displayed, unlike ephemeral experiences.

Store Culture and Competition

• 🛍️ Barnes & Noble stores are empowered to curate their spaces and inject personality, making each location unique and vibrant.
• 🤝 The company aims to coexist with independent bookstores, focusing on opening new stores in areas with limited book access.
• 🌐 The primary competition is identified as online retail, with physical book sales competing against online platforms.

Expansion and Market Trends

• 📍 Barnes & Noble opened 67 new stores in 2025 and plans for 68 in 2026, with a focus on expanding across the nation, including remote areas and densely populated regions.
• 📈 Texas and Florida are highlighted as key markets fueled by population booms, leading to significant store openings.
• 🔄 Store closures are minimal, and when they occur, they are typically relocated to new areas.