Costco to reduce book sales frequency starting in January

Costco plans to stop selling books regularly at its stores around the United States starting in January 2025, only offering them during the holiday season from September through December. This decision could have a significant impact on publishers and authors, as Costco has been a major bookseller for decades. The move is seen as a blow to the publishing industry, which is already facing challenges such as rising operating costs and stagnant print sales. While Costco's decision may not affect all authors equally, it could have a notable impact on certain titles and publishers. The retailer cited added costs for workers to stock books as one reason for the change, with books being displayed on tables rather than rolled out on pallets like other items. This shift could result in publishers losing out on bulk orders that can reach hundreds of thousands of copies for a single book. Despite the potential impact on the industry, some hope that true book readers will find new independent bookstores or explore other retailers and libraries for literary treasures. The decision reflects broader challenges faced by publishers in a tough market environment, with industry analysts expressing concerns about the implications of Costco's move.