2015
Independent Bookshop of the Year SPONSORED BY: GARDNERS BOOKS
31
[ TH E
S HORTLI ST ]
Caxton Books & Gallery in Frinton-on-Sea turns 10 this year— and it is very active with its work on book clubs in particular
Chorleywood Bookshop is the heart of its Hertfordshire town and an events machine, selling at festivals as well as running its own
Regency Bookshop, based in Surbiton, won the London category. It complements shop sales with its sharp events and schools business
WINNER: BOOKA BOOKSHOP
NO INDEPENDENT BOOKSELLER would argue that theirs is an easy job at the moment—but as the eight shops shortlisted for this award prove, the best of them are flourishing. The winner, Oswestry’s Booka Bookshop, is the model of a modern retailer. Its core books range is very well chosen, but it has also expanded well beyond that, with a café, gift and stationery items and an online offer that acknowledges its limitations against the likes of Amazon while giving browsers curated choice and perks such as signed copies and free local delivery.
It constantly finds new ways to sell books.
Book clubs, author events and its own literary festival are all part of the mix, and it tempts customers through the doors with outstanding marketing and window displays. Once inside,
KEY STRENGTHS
they find a beautifully laid-out space with a light, airy feel and excellent merchandising. Having increased sales for a fifth successive year in 2014, its formula is clearly working. “This is a fabulous-looking shop with a
strong sense of identity and purpose,” said the judges. “It’s a labour of love, but much more too: a commercially minded and thoroughly professional operation.” They also admired the way Booka has made itself a cultural hub in the town and a destination for those further afield since launching in 2009: “To become such a central part of the community in such a short space of time is really impressive.” Booka Bookshop wins a cheque for £5,000
from award sponsor Gardners Books. All eight shops on this shortlist were previously winners of their regional categories.
Very strong sales in a challenging market
Lively programme of activities including its own Oswestry LitFest Exceptional branding and marketing across the store and beyond Excellent customer service, including loyalty scheme and newsletters
Storytellers, Inc. in Lytham St Annes continued its children’s focus (see Children’s Bookseller of the Year nominees, p29) while adding a profitable adult stream
The Edinburgh Bookshop, Edinburgh, is also shortlisted for Children’s Bookseller of the Year (see p29). Its virtue lies in its staff’s superb knowledge and service
The Gutter Bookshop, having launched a second shop in Dalkey in addition to its Dublin store, is proof that strong bookshops are still opening
The Hungerford Bookshop in Berkshire was the South West winner. “A haven of peace for booklovers” says one customer
Gardners is an independently owned business and has been since its acquisition in 1986 by the Little family. Offering strong support for independent booksellers has always been a priority for its experienced team of staff, reflected in many of its innovative services and products. From the introduction of Gardlink in 1990 to its digital warehouse in 2008, to the launch of its Independent Booksellers Affiliate Programme and Hive in 2011, its unique relationship with both publishers and retailers enables us to co-ordinate trading between all parties, providing an effective and low-cost solution.
www.gardners.com
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