WATERBURY, CT – In the past, the fate of Barnes & Noble, as well as all other bookstores, was believed to be quite grim. However, with the rise of social media, reading has become more and more popularized due to the influx of social media posts recommending books and promoting reading, which has effectively skyrocketed Barnes & Noble sales. In reading communities, the debate of Barnes & Noble vs. Amazon vs. Indie Bookstores has been long winded, so what sets Barnes & Noble apart from the competition, and why is it so effective?
In past years, Barnes & Noble has implemented themed displays and personalized areas in their stores to appeal to readers. It is the niche categories and personalization of these displays that makes this such an effective marketing strategy. Customers walk in with no notion of buying anything, and leave with a long list of books they’d like to read and, oftentimes, a receipt. Rubie Lombardi, a Nonnewaug senior, says, “I go to Barnes & Noble every time I pass one!”