Fixable
How to bring a business back to life (w/ Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt)
Apr 7, 2025
James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble and Managing Director of Waterstones, shares his remarkable journey in revitalizing the iconic bookstore chain. He discusses his innovative strategies, including a surprising plan to open 60 new stores despite e-commerce dominance. Daunt emphasizes the importance of a non-hierarchical leadership approach and the principle of kindness in business. He also explores adapting to challenges during the pandemic and reimagining bookstores as community hubs, illustrating how traditional retailers can thrive in a digital landscape.
39:02
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- James Daunt's leadership at Barnes & Noble focuses on decentralizing decision-making, empowering teams to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.
- The company's revival demonstrates the importance of creating an enjoyable and inviting bookstore environment to attract customers post-pandemic.
Deep dives
The Turnaround of Barnes & Noble
The revival of Barnes & Noble under CEO James Daunt has been nothing short of extraordinary, as the company plans to open 60 new stores this year. Daunt's management approach emphasizes returning to core principles of good bookselling, focusing on creating an enjoyable experience for customers. This move comes in a time where many had considered Barnes & Noble’s demise inevitable due to the rise of e-commerce giants like Amazon. Daunt’s leadership highlights a significant cultural shift and his fanatical commitment to making bookstores valuable and relevant in today’s market.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
