Waterstone’s is planning to open its first UK book superstore in Glasgow. The bookseller has found a site for the planned 2,322.5 sq m (25,000 sq ft) store in the city centre. It hopes to conclude negotiations to acquire and refurbish it soon. The new store is due to open next spring and will be 464.5 sq m (5,000 sq ft) larger than the next biggest outlet in Leeds.
Waterstone’s plans to extend the normal product range in the new store with magazines, newspapers, computer software and art-house videos. It may also install a coffee bar. If the store is a success, the company may repeat the new format elsewhere in the country.
Following the collapse of the net book agreement last year, the UK book trade is still reeling. However, along with rival EMI-owned chain Dillons, Waterstone’s has continued to expand.
- Financial Times 23/09/96 page 6
