Barnes & Noble reported a 12% year-over-year increase in same-store sales during 2025, driven by strategic store renovations and expanded in-store experiences. CEO James Daunt attributes the resurgence to a renewed consumer appetite for physical bookstores.
- Same-store sales rose 12% in 2025, the third consecutive year of growth.
- 210 stores underwent renovations at an average cost of $150,000 per location.
- New York City flagship store saw a 27% increase in foot traffic.
- E-book platform users grew 34%, with subscription renewals up 41%.
- Total revenue reached $1.43 billion in 2025, up from $1.28 billion in 2024.
- Stock price rose 24% from 2024 low to $29.80 by January 9, 2026.
Barnes & Noble’s same-store sales rose 12% in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of positive growth, according to internal company data. The improvement followed a series of targeted renovations at 210 stores across the U.S., including the introduction of curated reading nooks, expanded coffee bar offerings, and dedicated children’s zones. These upgrades were rolled out in phases between early 2023 and late 2024, with an average investment of $150,000 per location. The sales momentum was particularly strong in urban markets, where same-store sales increased by 18%, outpacing suburban and rural locations. In New York City, the flagship Union Square store saw a 27% jump in foot traffic and a 22% rise in average transaction value. Daunt emphasized that the company’s focus on community-building—through author events, book clubs, and localized inventory—has helped differentiate the brand amid digital competition. Digital initiatives also contributed to the turnaround, with the company’s e-book platform recording a 34% increase in active users and a 41% rise in subscription renewals. The combined effect of physical and digital engagement helped drive total revenue to $1.43 billion in 2025, up from $1.28 billion the previous year. The performance has attracted renewed interest from investors, with Barnes & Noble’s stock closing at $29.80 on January 9, 2026—up 24% from its 2024 low. Analysts note that the company’s margin expansion, now at 19.3%, reflects improved operational efficiency and pricing power in key markets.