Revival of Barnes & Noble: From Big Box Bad Guy to Rebirth

Barnes & Noble, once portrayed as the big box bad guy gobbling up the competition, faced near extinction with the rise of the internet. However, the bookstore chain is making a remarkable comeback. Under the leadership of CEO James Don, Barnes & Noble has undergone a transformation. Don, an independent bookstore owner, aims to empower individual bookstore teams and revive the local bookstore experience. By cutting costs, eliminating central purchasing functions, and returning decision-making power to store managers, Barnes & Noble has been able to regain its identity and engage with the community. With a focus on better selection and services, the chain is attracting people to its stores as "third places" to hang out, discuss books, and make purchases.