Flintshire shops up for Independent Bookshop of the Year

Independent bookshops are entering a new golden age for bookselling; emerging from the pandemic, Brexit and cost-of-living crisis closer to their communities and stronger than ever.

The British Book Awards 2023 Independent Bookshop of the Year Award, sponsored by book wholesaler Gardners, celebrates those stores that continue to support their local communities with bespoke bookselling and tailored initiatives.

Berwyn Bookshop, Mynydd Isa.

In total there are 59 independent bookshops listed across nine different regions and countries, including eight in Wales.

Two of those are from Flintshire - The Berwyn Bookshop, in Mynydd Isa and The Bookshop, in Mold.

Tom Tivnan, The Bookseller managing editor and chair of the Independent Bookshop of the Year judges, said: “If there is one thing that has been driven home by these finalists it is that independent bookshops have been one of the winners of the pandemic.

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"Indies have come through what could have been a hugely devastating time for the sector in their strongest position in decades.

"We have seen this generally in the increased numbers of indies throughout the UK and Ireland. But we also see it more specifically in these finalists with the shops’ innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity - all done in the service of local communities. We have entered a new golden age for independent bookshops.”

The Bookshop, Mold.

Ruth Gardner, Gardners’ UK sales manager, said: “We are so proud to be sponsoring the Independent Bookseller of the Year award for the 14th year!

"Over the last few years, booksellers have proven themselves in the face of adversity - adapting, evolving and progressing to new heights.

"We know it hasn’t been an easy ride, but it ’s amazing to see them thriving. The list is a tough one, with every entry being a worthy winner - it could be the toughest yet!

"We’d like to wish every entry the very best of luck, and can’t wait to be part of this journey with them."

The shops will compete to win their region first, before contending for the overall prize, which will be announced at The British Book Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House London on Monday, May 15, 2023. The overall Independent Bookshop of the Year winner will also be in the running to be crowned Book Retailer of the Year.