Impact of Borders Closings on Direct Market Shops

As has been widely publicized, due to its financial difficulties, Borders will be going out of business. As a result, the previously second largest U.S. bookstore chain will be closing its remaining 399 locations throughout North America and liquidating its inventory beginning Friday, July 22.  

Retailers with shops located nearby one of the closing locations may wish to explore this potential opportunity to obtain fixtures and furnishings at discounted rates during the liquidation process. A complete list of closing Borders stores in the U.S. can be found here.  

Direct market shops near closing Borders may also want to consider how this might impact graphic novel, fantasy/science-fiction prose books, and manga business. With a major retailer no longer able to offer interested consumers these products, these stores – especially those in high traffic areas close to the shuttered Borders – might be able to earn the business of previous bookstore customers. Consider expanding your selection of graphic novels and manga and placing notifications on your site concerning your wide assortment of GNs/books and willingness to special order products for customers. If your marketing budget allows, investigate opportunities to print fliers and signage or run local ads immediately that will help increase awareness of your store’s location among the local community.