Online retailer Bert’s Books to open physical store

Bert’s Books, an online bookshop set up by W H Smith’s former head of books marketing Alex Call in 2019, is opening a physical store in Swindon this spring. 

Call has been crowdfunding for a physical store since January 2020. It will be based in Swindon’s Old Town. The exact opening date is to be confirmed. 

He said the shop’s focus will reflect that of the website, with a mix of “great commercial books and a mission to uncover hidden gems from under-represented parts of our community—alongside serving the local community”. It will also serve takeaway coffees and plans to host author events, talks and signings.  

Call told The Bookseller: “It’s been a long-held dream to open a real-life bookshop and finally, after a few false starts, I’ve got my hands on the keys to my very own shop. I’m looking forward to swapping book recommendations with the people of Swindon! It’s a little daunting, but I’m determined to make it a success.”  

The Bert’s Books website will continue to run alongside the physical shop. His GoFundMe page can still be found here. 

Call can be contacted at bert@bertsbooks.co.uk or via the twitter account @bertsbooks where he will be updating followers on the store’s progress.