The Guardian · US news · Original story
Independent bookstores make quiet comeback as big chains dominate retail
About 422 indie bookshops opened in 2025, up 31%, defying predictions of retail consolidation
For years now, we have heard that Amazon and the big chains are crushing small businesses, but independent bookstores are suddenly making a comeback.
About 422 new indie bookshops opened in 2025, according to the American Booksellers Association, a 31% rise from 2024. Countless independent restaurants, coffee shops, fitness centers, movie theaters, clothing stores and other small businesses also continue to thrive even in this era of ever-bigger retailers, fast-casual restaurants and massive e-commerce platforms.
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Gene Marks · Sun, Apr 19, 2026, 7:00 AM
US news | The Guardian
About 422 indie bookshops opened in 2025, up 31%, defying predictions of retail consolidation
For years now, we have heard that Amazon and the big chains are crushing small businesses, but independent bookstores are suddenly making a comeback.
About 422 new indie bookshops opened in 2025, according to the American Booksellers Association, a 31% rise from 2024. Countless independent restaurants, coffee shops, fitness centers, movie theaters, clothing stores and other small businesses also continue to thrive even in this era of ever-bigger retailers, fast-casual restaurants and massive e-commerce platforms.
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