In the United Kingdom, booksellers are facing an increasing tide of harassment from customers, according to the latest annual workforce survey conducted by the Booksellers Association (BA). The report, which details the experiences of those working on the front lines of the book trade, found that 31% of booksellers experienced abuse, bullying, or violence from customers in the past year. This figure represents a slight increase from 30% in 2025, highlighting a persistent and growing concern within the industry. The survey, which gathered responses from 347 individuals across various bookselling roles, underscores the challenging environment that many in the profession are navigating.
Customer Conduct and Perceived Causes
The findings suggest that this rise in negative customer interactions may be linked to a perception of what bookshops represent. While the survey does not delve into specific motivations, industry observers speculate that bookshops, as public spaces that often engage with diverse ideas and communities, might unfortunately become focal points for frustration or aggression. The BA has been actively working to address these issues, advocating for better support and safety measures for their members. The increase, though marginal, is a cause for concern and emphasizes the need for continued dialogue and action to ensure a safe working environment for all booksellers.
Broader Industry Challenges and Resilience
This news comes at a time when the UK book industry is navigating a complex landscape. Recent reports indicate that UK print book volume sales hit a six-year low in April 2026, with NielsenIQ BookScan data showing a decrease in units sold. Despite this, the value of the market has shown some resilience due to increasing average selling prices. Retailers like Waterstones have reported steady sales growth, with a 7% increase to £565.6 million in the 53 weeks to May 3, 2025, driven by strong fiction, stationery, and children's educational toy sales. However, the overall market contraction and the challenges faced by booksellers highlight the dual pressures of economic factors and interpersonal conduct impacting the sector. The British Book Awards, which celebrated achievements in the industry in May 2026, also saw Waterstones named Book Retailer of the Year for the second consecutive year, acknowledging its efforts to make each branch feel like an independent bookseller and its successful sales growth amidst a challenging high street environment. The resilience of the book trade is further evidenced by initiatives such as the LitUp reading-for-pleasure program by Bloomsbury and the National Literacy Trust, which has shown positive impacts on pupils' attitudes towards reading.
Looking Ahead: Support and Safety Measures
As the industry grapples with these challenges, the focus remains on supporting booksellers and fostering a safer environment. The Booksellers Association continues to advocate for industry-wide measures and provide resources to its members. The report's findings serve as a stark reminder of the human element within the book trade and the importance of addressing customer behavior to ensure the well-being of those who champion literature on a daily basis. The industry's ability to adapt and thrive, as seen in the continued success of retailers and the ongoing celebration of literary achievements, will depend in part on creating a secure and respectful atmosphere for all involved.