New Stories Looking Old

Angus & Robertson, Bondi Junction.  Historically book stores have tended to merchandise a 'bed' at the front of the store, often with new product.  One of the issues has been carrying a sufficient weight of stock.  However, I wonder whether bookstores might need to re-consider this practice.  Look at this example.  There is perhaps too much product, there are at least 8 different titles and the display is very high.  So while in theory the display ticks a lot of boxes, the net result is visual confusion and a bit of a mish-mash.  The eye is not drawn to any particular title, nor is there a good use of colour-blocking.  The result is underwhelming. Perhaps the new stories are looking a bit old-style ?

Now THIS is SHOCKING

Ariel bookstore, The Rocks.  Must be a niche market :)  ok, I know you're all cracking up....  How many copies do they expect to sell ?

Life Advice from Keith Richards

Ariel Books, The Rocks.  Some irony in the title of this book being sold in The Rocks.  However, being a survivor, maybe his life advice is as good as any - even if unauthorised :)

TIRED AND DOWDY

Dymocks, Pitt St - format looking very tired.

TIDY BUT DATED

Dymocks, Broadway. This bookstore concept is looking very dated and tired now. However they deserve credit for maintaining high housekeeping standards. One wonders whether they capture their fair share of the lucrative, educated Glebe target market, given the high level of competition in the precinct. This is a market which values the eclectic over the formulaic.

BOOKSTORE TAKING FLIGHT

Angus and Robertson, East Gardens. Good looking store, warm and appealing. I was especially impressed by the Lonely Planet travel promotion, how strong the offer was, and how well it was executed. A great job.

LOYALTY EXPOSED

Angus & Robertson East Gardens good exposure for rewards program benefits.

EVERY WOMAN'S MAY

Borders book store, Chermside, take on Mother's Day reflects the diverse nature of its customer base including single women, while simulatneously celebrating what it is to be a woman.  Very clever.

 

HOW MANY TAKERS ?

Sometimes retailers do all the right things but consumers just don't take the bait.  This is Angus & Robertson in Chermside mall.  The table is laid out with specials for Mother's Day - displays look great and the store's presentation standards are very high.  Have a look at the video clip, taken Wednesday lunch time - lots of customers in the mall, but how many takers ?  Tough times. Perhaps not aggressive enough ?

COFFEE TABLE BOOKS

Baci Paddington Brisbane stylish cafe and book concept.    Interesting 'booth' seating gives intimacy, and adds to retail theatre.  Relatively busy compared to rest of strip (Wed lunch time).  It would be interesting to know what book sales are like.  I suspect the store is cafe first, and the book sales a distant second.  The range of stock was relatively niche, arty, definitely not mass appeal, which probably suits the Paddington target market.   Some serious competition up the road at Mary Ryan.  Overall, a good effort, and worth a visit.

REFERRALS UPFRONT

Angus & Robertson, Redbank Plaza, Qld.  Good use of the table out front with staff recommendations and referrals for Mothers' Day gifts. On-brand and timely, and a good way to chase full margin sales.