Struggling Bay Area bookstore chain to be acquired by major corporation

(KRON) — It’s no secret that, in today’s digital age, bookstores across the country are struggling and not seeing the same business they saw 20 years ago. One locally owned bookstore chain is no exception.

Books Inc. is being acquired by BI Acquisition Co., LLC, an affiliate of Barnes & Noble, the local bookstore announced in a press release. Books Inc. filed a motion to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of California requesting approval of its sale to the national bookstore chain giant.

The company looks to sell its assets to Barnes & Noble for $3.25 million, the press release states.

Books Inc. was founded 174 years ago in 1851. There are 10 Books Inc. locations in the Bay Area, including two at San Francisco International Airport.

The move comes after Books Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January. The multi-million-dollar sale is expected to be reviewed by the district court, which is expected to make a ruling this fall.

Books Inc. said its struggles are related to “revenue losses from steadily rising operating costs and changing consumer buying habits exacerbated by the COVID pandemic.” According to the press release, Books Inc. loyalty points and gift cards will be honored at Barnes & Noble stores.

“This agreement will ensure that Book Inc.’s legacy will continue for the foreseeable future,” said Books Inc. CEO Andy Perham. “With Barnes & Noble’s deep resources and world-class support, Books Inc. will be able to quickly modernize its operations so we can focus on what we do best: connecting people with books, ideas and each other.”

The Books Inc. acquisition is Barnes & Noble’s second in the last 14 months. The large national corporation purchased Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver in July 2024.