While the decline in bookshop numbers is a concern, the BA welcomed the opening of 45 new independent bookshops in 2024, compared to 51 in 2023, as a testament to the enduring confidence in bookselling
The number of independent bookshops in the UK has seen a slight decline in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the Booksellers Association (BA). Membership numbers fell from 1,063 in 2023 to 1,052, continuing a downward trend. Despite this, independent bookshops remain more resilient than the wider retail sector, which has witnessed approximately 37 store closures per day, as reported by the Centre of Retail Research.
While the decline in bookshop numbers is a concern, the BA welcomed the opening of 45 new independent bookshops in 2024, compared to 51 in 2023, as a testament to the enduring confidence in bookselling. However, the organization highlighted the fragile financial ecosystem in which these booksellers operate, emphasizing the need for sustained support from trade partners, consumers, and government bodies.
Challenges Ahead
The independent bookshop sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining numbers well above the 2016 low of 867. However, economic challenges persist, with the BA warning that 2025 could bring heightened financial pressures. Rising operational costs, increased National Insurance Contributions, and changes in Business Rates Relief are expected to disproportionately affect smaller businesses.
Independent bookshops in England face further financial strain due to a reduction in retailer relief rates in 2025, potentially costing 40% of businesses nearly £10,000 annually. Meanwhile, Scottish bookshops will not receive equivalent rate relief or benefit from Creative Scotland’s recent funding allocations. In Wales, the conclusion of the ‘Schools Love Reading’ project in 2024 marks the loss of a key revenue stream, as the Welsh Government had been purchasing books for schoolchildren through independent stores. Similarly, Irish bookshops brace for the impact of Amazon’s launch of a dedicated online store in 2025, coupled with revenue losses stemming from the Irish government’s direct schoolbook supply program.
Consumer Trends
The 2024 Christmas trading period posed additional challenges for independent bookshops due to a sluggish book market and reduced high street footfall. According to Nielsen BookScan, book sales volume declined by 1.7% year-on-year, while value dropped by 0.6%. Additionally, data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) indicated a 2.5% decline in high street footfall during the crucial ‘Golden Quarter’ from October to December.
A BA Christmas Trading Survey of over 150 independent bookshops reflected a mix of resilience and concern. While a majority of bookshops saw increased sales and footfall compared to 2023, a significant minority reported lower turnover. The survey also revealed a trend of shrinking per-customer spend, indicating that while more consumers are supporting local bookshops, they are spending less.
Cultural Contributions
Beyond economic factors, independent bookshops continue to play a vital role in their communities. A BA-commissioned report, The Cultural Role and Value of England’s Independent Bookshops, found that these stores contribute significantly to local culture and social engagement:
• 92% host events and activities for their communities
• 69% donate books
• 63% support local literary and arts festivals
• 60% run book clubs and reading groups
• 60% support local charities
• 56% partner with community organizations for events
• 45% organize school author visits
• 43% support libraries
• 40% facilitate creative writing workshops
• 36% assist parenting groups
As the industry looks ahead to 2025, independent booksellers must navigate economic uncertainty and evolving consumer habits. The BA urges stakeholders across the retail and creative sectors to recognize the vital role bookshops play and to support them through the challenges ahead. The coming year will be a test of resilience, but also an opportunity for collaboration to ensure the sustainability of these essential cultural institutions.
ALSO READ: Londoners lodge almost 7,000 fraud, scam complaints
ALSO READ: Trump Spares Starmer
