Barnes and Noble CEO: 'The Odyssey' is Our Best-Selling Book

Summary

Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt discusses the resurgence of physical bookstores, highlighting the company's turnaround through local store autonomy, removal of unrelated products, and a focus on community experience. He notes Gen Z's book engagement via social media and adaptations like 'The Odyssey', and outlines plans to open 60 new stores per year. Daunt deflects questions about a potential IPO.

• Barnes & Noble revived by allowing local store teams to curate inventory and removing items like batteries.
• Hollywood films such as 'The Odyssey' and BookTok drive reading among Gen Z and older generations.
• The current bestseller is Homer's 'The Odyssey', reflecting a broader interest in classics.
• The company opens 60 new stores annually, targeting thousands of communities lacking bookstores.
• Physical bookstores appeal to all ages and demographics, fueling the growth thesis.
• CEO Daunt says an IPO is 'above my pay grade,' leaving public listing timeline uncertain.