Shanghai releases guideline to support physical bookshops

On April 23, this year's World Book Day, the city of Shanghai released a guideline to support the development of brick-and-mortar bookstores. According to statistics, Shanghai is expected to open about 20 new bookstores this year, four of which opened on World Book Day.

Many believe bookstores are making a comeback, often in the form of themed shops. Zhu Bing, an official with Popular Bookmall, said the company has opened a number of themed stores - such as a 24-hour store, a movie-themed store and store aimed at female readers - to meet different readers’ demands

As more physical bookstores open, they will have a stronger market presence in Shanghai, according to the guideline. A senior publisher attributed the emergence of chain stores in Shanghai, including Jiangsu’s Popular Bookmall, Zhejiang’s Boku Book City and Chongqing’s Sisyphus bookstore, to the city's welcoming environment and strong appetite for reading.