RED GROUP GOES UNDER ...
Big news in the book world in Australia. The Red Group, who owns two of the largest book chains, Angus & Robertson and Borders has gone under.
What does this mean for books in Australia?
It's hard to know. There are a lot of different views flying around at the moment, but on the whole it is going to be one of those – time will tell – issues.
The good news seems to be, that for bookstore owners that owned franchises of A&R - it is now their opportunity to get out from under the corporate flag and do things the way they want to. This could lead to a whole new brand of independent bookstores which would be great. I don’t know about you but I love going to my local independents that stock intelligent ranges of material and are well informed about the books they stock. More of those has to be a step in the right direction, right?
Anyway, I’m interested to know how you guys feel about all of this. I am sure some of you will have shopped in these stores and may even end up losing your local bookstore. Some people are blaming the likes of eBooks and internet sales for the downfall of the chain stores, but I don’t know, I think the main thing would be the massive price differences. I won’t go into it in too much depth, but I’m sure you all know there are stores that charge a lot less than the marked prices in borders and A&R. So, let me know your opinion on the issue if you have one.
Oh, by the way. I heard that A&R were going to honour gift certificates, but only if the person purchased double the value. For example, if you had a $20 gift voucher, you would have to select $40 worth of product and then use your certificate plus pay $20 on top of that. Does anyone know if that is true? On one side, I guess it is better than nothing, but on the other, I feel sorry for people that have unused certificates!
On to my book news ... ENTICED went to print about a week ago so we should receive first copies shortly. I am SO excited to have the book finished and even more so to get it out on shelves! Countdown is definitely on – just over 4 weeks to go!!
In the meantime, I am busy tapping away at my computer working on an early draft of the third instalment which, I can now confirm, will be titled EMBLAZE and will be released later in 2011. Yes, clearly we’re loving the ‘e’ words. Hope you do, too!
What does this mean for books in Australia?
It's hard to know. There are a lot of different views flying around at the moment, but on the whole it is going to be one of those – time will tell – issues.
The good news seems to be, that for bookstore owners that owned franchises of A&R - it is now their opportunity to get out from under the corporate flag and do things the way they want to. This could lead to a whole new brand of independent bookstores which would be great. I don’t know about you but I love going to my local independents that stock intelligent ranges of material and are well informed about the books they stock. More of those has to be a step in the right direction, right?
Anyway, I’m interested to know how you guys feel about all of this. I am sure some of you will have shopped in these stores and may even end up losing your local bookstore. Some people are blaming the likes of eBooks and internet sales for the downfall of the chain stores, but I don’t know, I think the main thing would be the massive price differences. I won’t go into it in too much depth, but I’m sure you all know there are stores that charge a lot less than the marked prices in borders and A&R. So, let me know your opinion on the issue if you have one.
Oh, by the way. I heard that A&R were going to honour gift certificates, but only if the person purchased double the value. For example, if you had a $20 gift voucher, you would have to select $40 worth of product and then use your certificate plus pay $20 on top of that. Does anyone know if that is true? On one side, I guess it is better than nothing, but on the other, I feel sorry for people that have unused certificates!
On to my book news ... ENTICED went to print about a week ago so we should receive first copies shortly. I am SO excited to have the book finished and even more so to get it out on shelves! Countdown is definitely on – just over 4 weeks to go!!
In the meantime, I am busy tapping away at my computer working on an early draft of the third instalment which, I can now confirm, will be titled EMBLAZE and will be released later in 2011. Yes, clearly we’re loving the ‘e’ words. Hope you do, too!
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Jessica wrote: "Yes that is true about the giftcards. Pretty sure Borders is running the same policy. I used to work at an A&R myself. I think it's sad that this has happened, but their books are quite pricey and ..."Thanks for the feedback, Jessica. I agree with you, it is really sad that store names like these won't be with us any longer.
And, I had another thought ... and this comes from a completely selfish place - what will happen to all the coffee shops? I'm always at the Gloria Jeans coffee shops in the borders stores. Unfortunately, not really for their coffee, which while warm is not my favourite in the flavour department, but I do go there for their power points and comfy chairs!
Ah ... I am going to miss having them as one of my regulars!
Yes, I also agree that Borders and A&R were making changes to some of their pricing, but alas - it was obviously too little too late.
Glad you're looking forward to ENTICED!
Jennifer wrote: "This is sad news regarding the boom world. I usually shop at Dymocks myself.. as they seem to have more books than say Borders or A&R around my area. I'm excited for entice to be released :D Any ..."
Thanks for the message, Jennifer. Dymocks will be the last of the super book chains left. Lucky for you, there is one nearby! Maybe they will seize the opportunity to get their hands on some prime real estate. It would be obvious to them the sites that Borders and A&R have that have great footfall, I can see them possibly coming out more than just on top. The thing I respect about Dymocks is they have remained true to what they are good at - books. Lately in Borders stores they have been selling anything and everything. Customers quickly lose confidence in the stores that sell a little bit of everything, don't you think?
Anyway, as for signings - I hang my head in shame, but I haven't cemented anything yet. Will be sure to post when I do.
Jennifer wrote: "Jessica wrote: "Jennifer wrote: "This is sad news regarding the boom world. I usually shop at Dymocks myself.. as they seem to have more books than say Borders or A&R around my area. I'm excited ..."
Totally agree. Maybe the next loyalty program should be like flying business class - can you imagine - going into bookstores and scanning your 'priority client card' which lets you into the lounge area fully equipped with cold yummy beverages and ridiculously comfy chairs (and you can get international releases first!). If I got all of that I think I might just be happy enough to live with the higher prices! Maybe when you are given your much deserved role as consultant at Dymocks you can put forward the idea! lol
And I'm with you - there is no such thing as having too many books.
Ah ... me too! The last thing I want to do when I sit down to read someone else's book is to have to do it on screen. Give me a book anyday!
Hi JessicaAre you doing any book signing when your book Enticed comes out? Iam so excited.
Its sad to hear about A&R and Boarders i do buy books from them sometimes, however i have found it cheaper going else where ie thebookdepository however a pain to wait upto three weeks in the mail.
Tracey wrote: "Hi JessicaAre you doing any book signing when your book Enticed comes out? Iam so excited.
Its sad to hear about A&R and Boarders i do buy books from them sometimes, however i have found it chea..."
Hi Tracey,
I know what you're saying - I'm almost always too impatient to order books online. Once I decide I want to read something - I HAVE to have it!
As for signings, I don't have any updates on that as yet but when I do I will post them asap.
Glad you're looking forward to ENTICED!!
Can't wait to read Enticed! Very excited. Hope the writing is going well :)