Barnes & Noble continues to adapt its operations in reaction to the spread of the new coronavirus. The company has temporarily closed about 400 stores to the public as it works with state and local officials to comply with shelter-in-place rules. At many outlets that are closed to the public for in-store shopping, B&N is continuing to offer curbside pickup for online orders.
Sales at BN.com continue to increase, and the company’s fulfillment centers remain open. B&N noted, however, that delivery times may be a little slower than normal.
Earlier this month, B&N canceled all in-store author events through April 30, and is now ramping up its virtual programs. The company has also made learning materials and resources available through Storytimes.
In an interview with PW earlier this month, B&N CEO James Daunt said he was confident the company could remain a profitable business while it confronts the coronavirus—as long as it could keep stores opened. He was hoping to make bookstores qualify as essential businesses.
