This year the Australian book market has declined 3% overall through December 9, compared to the same period last year, according to Nielsen BookScan, which noted that 2022 had the highest recorded sales in BookScan records and this year's drop "could be a correction on performance," Books+Publishing reported.
"In the backdrop of the uncertainties of 2020, there was a surge in book sales, particularly in the latter part of the year, and 2021 saw a further uplift," said Nielsen BookData Australia general manager Bianca Whiteley, adding that "2022 set new records, highlighting the enduring appeal of books as a source of joy and inspiration, particularly resilient in challenging economic conditions. Although 2023 shows a modest adjustment, sales remain notably elevated compared to 'pre-pandemic' levels, emphasizing the enduring popularity of books." In terms of genre, adult fiction continues to grow, up 4% this year to date, which Nielsen said translates to an additional 230,000 units sold.
Adult fiction is also "the star performing category across 2023" in Aotearoa New Zealand, according to Nielsen BookData NZ territory manager Nevena Nikolic, who said the category was up 2.5% compared to last year, "and within this broad category genre fiction, such as crime & thriller, has done particularly well."
In total, NZ$4.6 million (about US$2.9 million) was spent on printed books in New Zealand in the seven-day period ending December 9 across 33,300 unique ISBNs or book titles, up 7% on the average unique weekly sales of 31,000, "showing the support New Zealanders have for buying a wider range of books at Christmas time," said Nielsen.
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RISE Bookselling has opened the application process for booksellers to join the 2024 Bookselling Ireland Conference. The European & Independent Booksellers Federation's Newsflash reported that a group of international booksellers will again have the opportunity to take part in the conference, which will be held in Dublin, February 26-27. Applications are due by January 7.
Organized by Bookselling Ireland & Publishing Ireland, the conference's program includes author speakers, practical bookselling sessions, a bookshop tour of the Irish capital, conference drink reception & dinner, and trade show featuring publishers and other trade exhibitors.
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Holiday season bookseller moments:
The West Kirby Bookshop, West Kirby, England: "Christmas is in full swing at the bookshop! Our decorations are up, and a big thanks to everyone whose said the shop looks like their Nan's Christmas living room in the '80s... the exact nostalgic vibe we were going for. We're open until 6pm today and 11-4pm tomorrow, so stop by for a chat, plenty of Christmas book recommendations, and to marvel at our chintzy decorations. As always, a big thanks to @theenchantedflorist.uk for humoring our silly decoration ideas! See you all soon."
The American Book Center, the Hague, Netherlands: "Sinterklaas is in the country, and our booksellers in The Hague know what they'd like to receive in their shoe this year!"
Massolit Books & Café, Budapest, Hungary: "Christmas vibe at Massolit."
Dormouse Books, Belper, England: "Happy Small Business Saturday! It's cold outside but we have hot chocolate and books. Support your high street and vote for the world you want to live in."
Long Story Short, St. Georges, Bermuda: "Wintry weather or holiday travels mean having lots of books at your disposal."
Robinsons Bookshop, Glen Waverly, Australia: "Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and their little helper are in town! Head to Robinsons The Glen where you may get the chance to meet Santa and his crew this Christmas!" --Robert Gray