Full Breakdown
Barnes & Noble Expands Presence in Chicago Amid Controversy
1/7/2026, 11:11:34 AM
Major Expansion Plans
Barnes & Noble is set to open its largest Chicago location this summer at 150 N. State St., occupying a former Old Navy store. This 30,000-square-foot bookstore is part of a broader strategy to revitalize its brick-and-mortar presence across the United States, with four new locations planned in the Chicago area by 2026. The other sites include a store at 1524 E. 55th St. in Hyde Park, a relocation within the Westfield Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, and a new store in Oak Park at the former Borders Books location.
Background and Context
The expansion comes after years of declining store numbers for Barnes & Noble, which has seen a resurgence in sales since James Daunt became CEO in 2019. The company has shifted its focus back to bookselling, allowing local booksellers to curate selections tailored to their communities. This strategy has resulted in a significant increase in customer engagement and sales, with 31 new stores opened in 2023 alone.
Impact on Local Bookstores
The arrival of Barnes & Noble has raised concerns among independent bookstores in the Chicago area. Volumes Bookcafe, an independent bookstore in Wicker Park, announced its closure due to a reported 20-30% drop in sales since Barnes & Noble opened nearby in October 2024. Co-owner Rebecca George attributed the decline directly to the competition from the larger chain. Similarly, business owners in Hyde Park have expressed worries about the impact on local shops, urging residents to support independent bookstores like Powell’s Books and 57th Street Books.
Official Statements & Responses
Janine Flanigan, Barnes & Noble's vice president of store design, emphasized the company's commitment to community engagement, stating, “We’re a bookseller first and foremost... the stores are now making decisions about what’s right for their communities.” Retail expert Chris Irwin noted that Barnes & Noble's flexible approach to store sizes and local curation is a strategic advantage, saying, “Sometimes a corporate, cookie-cutter approach doesn’t work.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the expansion of Barnes & Noble threatens the viability of independent bookstores, which often struggle to compete with the resources and marketing power of large chains. The closure of Volumes Bookcafe has been cited as a direct consequence of this competitive pressure, highlighting the challenges faced by smaller retailers in the current market.
What's Next
As Barnes & Noble continues its expansion, the company plans to open additional stores in various states, including Ohio, Texas, and California, further solidifying its presence in the retail landscape. The upcoming openings in Chicago will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics, as the balance between large chains and independent bookstores remains a contentious issue in the community.
