Kobo announces partnership with UK independent booksellers
Kobo, the e-reader brand, has announced a partnership with the Booksellers Association of the UK & Ireland that will result in its e-readers being sold in 3,000 local bookshops.
The move follows the launch of Kobo’s new range of e-readers and the company’s recent partnership with the American Booksellers Association.
Kobo already sells its e-readers via major UK stores such as WH Smith, Asda, Dixons, Currys, John Lewis, Staples and Argos. The company said the new partnership will strengthen its foothold in the UK market.
“We are very excited to work with independent bookstores across the UK and Ireland to bring e-reading to more booklovers,” said Todd Humphrey, executive vice president of business development at Kobo. “With this partnership, independents will be able to offer a world class e-reading solution to their loyal customers and have a voice in the digital transformation.”
Never Miss a Retail Update!As well as selling Kobo’s range of e-readers, UK booksellers will also be able to offer Kobo’s e-book catalogue of over 3 million titles.
Tim Godfray, chief executive of the Booksellers Association of the UK & Ireland, said: “We are delighted that Kobo has decided to expand its services in the UK.
“Today’s readers want a first-class shopping experience, both in-store and online, and Kobo has the infrastructure to help independent booksellers to meet the ever-changing needs of shoppers in a dynamic marketplace.”
