Book People kicks off celebrations marking 30 years in business

Book People has embarked on a year of celebrations, including events, competitions and exclusive content for customers and staff, in honour of its 30th anniversary.

The retailer's celebrations kick off in September with a month of book-themed competitions for customers. With details to enter available on its website, prizes include books and gifts from Book People’s own range as well as prizes from its publishing partners, such as a Mr Men and Little Miss hamper, signed prints from children’s illustrators and the chance for parents to get their child’s name included as a character in the next Rainbow Magic book.

In addition to competitions, Book People will be publishing guest blog posts, infographics and videos, and hosting Facebook Live events with authors. Staff will also be raising money for Book People’s partner charity, Save The Children, with fundraising events expected to take place throughout the year.

Book People was first founded in 1988 by Ted Smart and Seni Glaister, who started out by delivering hand-picked titles direct to people’s workplace in the Guildford area. Within two years the business went national, and, by the end of the decade, the business introduced its mail order catalogue and its online store, the latter of which now accounts for 50% of revenue.

Key initiatives have included an 18-month direct to consumer "Lifetime of Adventure" partnership with Hachette promoting Enid Blyton’s titles and the signing of a two-year license with The Roald Dahl Story Company to produce exclusive gift lines, launching this month for Roald Dahl day.

Sarah Walden, group buying and merchandising director, commented: "I am so proud to be part of a business that is focussed on making books accessible to everyone – in their homes, their workplaces and their schools - and has been for 30 years. We can’t wait to celebrate our 30th birthday with our customers, our publishing partners and our staff – it will be so much fun."