Books Consumer Insights

Trend - Brick-and-mortar bookstores are attempting to retain interest among contemporary audiences by introducing tech-savvy features that enhance the experience. These are usually implemented to completely change or supplement one's visit and include technology such as augmented reality or facial recognition tech.

Insight - As consumers lifestyles in the modern digital age have drastically changed, these shifts can be observed in the retail space as well. Now, people are looking for innovative retail experiences that balance online and offline environments. Many consumers still have a preference for physical retail in some categories as it allows them to inspect the product at hand. However, a lot of them are intrigued by innovative forms of retail that call on technology to expedite the point-of-purchase procedure or simply offer a more immersive experience.

Implications - Though historically, reading has been a straightforward and solitary activity, advancements in technology have revolutionized the publishing industry. In addition to audio books and e-books, the natural progression of the space has lead to interactive and digitally enhanced methods of enjoying literature. This evolution speaks to the ways that technology has influenced consumption.

Implications - Fashion designers and editors are inspired by numerous elements, but lately, the industry has seen a rise in designs and editorials influenced by literature. Offering stylish translations of classic tomes such as The Great Gatsby and Wuthering Heights, and even the modern-day cult favorite 50 Shades of Grey, these literary interpretations allow consumers to experience a piece of romantic fantasy while looking chic and stylish at the same time.

Implications - Book authors are increasingly finding it more difficult to break into the publishing world. Luckily, a wave of innovations helping new and existing authors publish and promote their books are coming to fore. These innovations, which include everything from disappearing ink to encourage quick reading to fansourced book tours, consequently augment the conventional publishing process so that burgeoning new authors actually have a fighting chance despite the growing popularity of ebooks and digital content.

Implications - The issue of literacy is one social organizations are struggling to tackle around the world. In the United States alone, about 32 million adults lack basic literacy skills, says a report by the U.S. Education Department, and recent research has uncovered that over 900 million people in developing countries are illiterate. These staggering numbers have caused many literacy groups to take nontraditional action. Rather than waiting for illiterate consumers to reach out for help, these groups are hitting the streets, handing out books, teaching people how to read and even providing help on schoolwork. While still on a small scale, mobile literacy programs are a unique way to tackle this worldwide social issue.

Implications - Today’s bookworm doesn’t need to visit a library or a bookstore. She can peruse digital shelves on her tablet, visit Twitter or Facebook for book recommendations and even experience a book like never before—via augmented reality. It is true that while traditional book sales have dipped, sales for e-books have never been higher. The way a consumer reads has been forever changed, and the digital book industry—and its related industries—will only continue to expand from here.

Implications - The rise of the e-book has made selling bound books even more difficult. Book publishers are shaking up store shelves with new strategies to appease the Web 2.0 reader, whether it's through the implementation of technology or introducing new print authors from the digital world.