Joan Treistman

Barnes & Noble Puts Out 'For Sale' Sign

August 9, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
Describing its stock as "significantly undervalued," Barnes & Noble (B&N) last week essentially put itself up for sale. As e-books erode its brick & mortar business, pressure from shareholder activists were said to have prompted the move. What do you make of the struggle for control of Barnes & Noble?      [more...]

What is the decision process for buying e-books? How do consumers become aware of their choices?

Of course e-book sellers are in touch with their prior customers to promote books that they are likely to be interested in. But there is something to be said about the experience of walking down the aisles in a brick and mortar store to learn about what's out there...in fiction, mysteries, travel, business, self-help. Here may be an opportunity that has not been thoroughly examined or leveraged. Engaging shoppers with a satisfying experience that results in their acknowledged access to the variety and quantity of eBook options may be another avenue that will create online retail leadership...and loyalty.

There has been little mention of any segmentation within the book market, the various genres, categories, subjects, and other differentiating characteristics. And there has been little discussion of who the e-readers are.

Perhaps there is an opportunity to lead the field by engaging readers with the vastness of choices. I don't believe that aspect of the business has been completely tapped.