Books Inc. plans to sell its assets to Barnes & Noble, pending approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, following its January bankruptcy filing. If approved, the deal would allow Books Inc. to keep its doors open while supporting Barnes & Noble’s nationwide expansion.
Highlights
- Books Inc. is to be acquired by Barnes & Noble in a multimillion-dollar deal.
- The book retailer filed for bankruptcy in January 2025 and seeks to sell assets to the company.
- Books Inc. will operate with a more modernized approach upon approval of the deal.
Barnes & Noble to Acquire Almost Two-Century-Old Book Retailer
Founded in 1851, Books Inc. has long been a San Francisco favorite among readers. Unfortunately, with tough competition arising in the industry, the pandemic, and changing economic conditions, the retailer filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. Now, the retailer is turning to Barnes & Noble, once a fierce competitor, for stability.
According to Retail Dive, Books Inc. has asked the court to approve a $3.25 million sale of assets to Barnes & Noble. Upon approval, the deal will proceed, and Books Inc. will operate under Barnes & Noble.
Books Inc. Filed for Bankruptcy in January 2025
In January 2025, Books Inc. filed for Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Loss of revenue from the COVID-19 pandemic was among the reasons for the filing. The filing also cited the shift in customer shopping behavior, opting for marketplace platforms like Amazon, leading to a loss in business.
Despite running nine stores and an online shop, Books Inc. struggled to compete, ultimately filing for bankruptcy in January after attempts to restructure its operations.
$3.25 Million Deal
The acquisition will help Barnes & Noble expand its strategy while operations continue at Books Inc. The deal is expected to preserve the 174-year-old retailer’s legacy while updating its operations.
Having purchased many other bookstore chains in recent years, Barnes & Noble is steadily growing its nationwide footprint. This acquisition will aid in the same, as the company focuses on its growth strategy.
According to Retail Dive, Books Inc.’s loyalty points will transfer to Barnes & Noble accounts. Gift cards will also be honored similarly so that customers’ experience is not disrupted during this period.
The acquisition still requires court approval, which is expected later this fall. Customers can expect Books Inc. locations to remain open during the transition. Following the approval, the store will continue operations with a modernized approach.
