The city of Norwich is set to bid farewell to a beloved institution as the book department of the iconic Jarrolds store is slated to close its doors at the end of August. The decision comes after a sale of the existing stock, leaving many to wonder about the future of the bookselling trade in the city. Jarrolds, a name synonymous with publishing and bookselling, has been a staple of the Norwich high street for generations. The news has sent shockwaves among book lovers and loyal customers who have been faithful to the store over the years. As the store’s managing director, Mr. Shattock, acknowledged, the decision to close the book department was not taken lightly, and the team is working hard to support any colleagues who may be affected by the change.
Despite the seemingly abrupt decision, Jarrolds appears to be in a stable financial position, with its most recent annual accounts showing a turnover of £31.8m and a gross profit margin of 19.1%. The average number of employees has also remained relatively steady, with a slight decrease from 419 to 398 over the past year. However, beneath the surface, the book department has been facing significant challenges in recent years, particularly with the rise of online retailers at the turn of the millennium. The shift in consumer behavior has made it increasingly difficult for traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores to compete, and Jarrolds has been no exception. Mr. Shattock acknowledged the difficulties, stating that while the company is proud of its history as a bookseller, the department has been a challenging market for them to navigate.
The decision to close the book department is a poignant reminder of the evolving retail landscape and the need for businesses to adapt to changing consumer habits. As Mr. Shattock explained, the department store operates in multiple categories, and while some areas have seen significant growth, the book department has struggled to keep pace. The company has managed to “nurture” the department over the past two decades, but ultimately, the decline has become too great to sustain. The decision to close the department is a difficult one, and Mr. Shattock expressed his gratitude to loyal customers who have supported the store throughout the years. The closure serves as a testament to the challenges faced by traditional bookstores in the digital age, where online retailers have revolutionized the way people consume books.
While the closure of the book department may seem like a loss for the city, Jarrolds is focusing on innovative areas that are showing promise. The food hall and beauty retreat rooms, for example, have seen significant growth and are areas where the company is investing for the future. Mr. Shattock highlighted the importance of innovation in these categories, stating that they are finding it “very difficult to replicate” the same level of growth in the book department. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, Jarrolds is committed to adapting and finding new ways to engage with customers. The closure of the book department may be a sad chapter in the store’s history, but it also marks a new beginning as the company looks to the future and explores new opportunities.
The impact of the closure will undoubtedly be felt by the community, particularly among book lovers who have relied on Jarrolds as a hub for literary events and discussions. The store has been a staple of the city’s cultural scene, hosting author talks, book signings, and other events that have brought people together. While the closure of the book department may seem like a loss, it is essential to recognize the efforts of the team at Jarrolds, who have worked tirelessly to support the local community. The company’s commitment to innovation and adaptation is a testament to its dedication to the city and its customers. As the store navigates this new chapter, it is likely that new and exciting initiatives will emerge, ensuring that Jarrolds remains a vibrant and integral part of the Norwich community.
As the book department prepares to close its doors, it is essential to reflect on the significance of Jarrolds in the city’s history and cultural landscape. The store has been a beacon for book lovers, a place where people could discover new authors, attend literary events, and connect with like-minded individuals. While the closure marks the end of an era, it also presents an opportunity for the company to reinvent itself and explore new avenues for growth. As Mr. Shattock noted, the decision to close the book department was not taken lightly, but it is a necessary step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the business. As Jarrolds looks to the future, it is likely that the company will continue to play a vital role in the city’s cultural scene, albeit in new and innovative ways. The story of Jarrolds is far from over, and as the company embarks on this new chapter, it is exciting to think about what the future may hold for this beloved institution.
