Bibles, religious books, learner driver books, international titles. Aren’t these still the major sellers? Would be interesting to know the break down in what sells.
A valuable question - I don’t have the numbers for 2021 to 2026, but I do have it for 2025 to 2026: about 3.5% growth in unit sales (which is a much more accurate marker of growth than turnover).
I am encouraged that the small, struggling book market grew at all, given what is happening in the world.
And I must disclose: this figure is being pulled from memory. It might be 3, it might be 3,2, but there was real market growth YoY.
I enjoyed reading this so much! A big thank you for putting the numbers out there - this really helped in obtaining a clearer picture of the immense challenges the industry is facing in SA.
Such a hopeful, poetic piece! 🙏
Bibles, religious books, learner driver books, international titles. Aren’t these still the major sellers? Would be interesting to know the break down in what sells.
I have some stats on this - will go dig!
Incredibly thoughtful piece, and such a stunning call to read more South African readers! Thank you!
Always love your substacks. Thank you!
I wonder if R1.4 billion to R1.9 billion in five years, is about an actual increase in sales or if it is about price increase?
A valuable question - I don’t have the numbers for 2021 to 2026, but I do have it for 2025 to 2026: about 3.5% growth in unit sales (which is a much more accurate marker of growth than turnover).
I am encouraged that the small, struggling book market grew at all, given what is happening in the world.
And I must disclose: this figure is being pulled from memory. It might be 3, it might be 3,2, but there was real market growth YoY.
I enjoyed reading this so much! A big thank you for putting the numbers out there - this really helped in obtaining a clearer picture of the immense challenges the industry is facing in SA.
Yessss! Thank you for this incredibly insightful read, Marius x
What an empowering read! South Africa has incredible local talent! I hope the market starts shifting to shop locally first 👏
Such a lovely and informative read. It’s my pleasure to share that my bookshelf is (proudly) largely SA🇿🇦
Thank you. Gives a valuable insight.