Today, Bookshop.org is introducing their new ebook platform, enabling UK bookshops to profit from ebook sales for the first time in history. The online bookstore that champions indie bookshops will allow stores to go head-to-head with Amazon’s Kindle apps. Independent bookshops in Yorkshire, including La Biblioteka in Sheffield, are working with bookshop.org on their new launch.

A recent YouGov study found that for 25% of readers, ebooks are their main way of reading. Ebook sales had a strong year in 2024, rebounding from the post-pandemic drop off (source: Nielsen BookData). This new ebook service will enable ebook-savvy readers to support their local bookshop – even when they want to read books digitally.

The new platform will empower bookshops to sell ebooks while earning 100% of the profits from those sales. It will also offer readers a concrete alternative to Amazon to purchase their favourite ebooks at the same price as other retail platforms.

Built to boost revenue streams for brick-and-mortar bookshops, Bookshop.org’s ebook platform adds to its giveback model – it’s a significant move to enrich the publishing ecosystem. Bookshops will be able to access the growing ebook market in the UK, which was valued £298 million by a recent Publishers Association report.

The new platform, available online via any web browser and through the Bookshop.org app, launches with a catalogue of over one million ebooks, providing something for every type of reader. The app also fosters community engagement by allowing readers to share their favourite book moments on social media.

“As a reader who travels a lot, being able to access e-books from more platforms than just my local library is brilliant,” says CP Hunter from The Folkestone Bookshop. “It’s even more exciting that it's from the ethical platform Bookshop.org. I’m a bookseller, so making books even more accessible while still supporting independent shops is nothing but great news!”

Andy Hunter, CEO and Founder of Bookshop.org, reminisces on the genesis of the organisation. “When we launched Bookshop.org, the vision was to support local bookstores in their battle against Amazon and other online retailers. Our ebook launch furthers our commitment to help bookstores flourish in the digital age. After introducing our ebook platform in the US earlier this year, we are thrilled to see how ebook sales are going for bookshops.”

Digitally-inclined readers can directly support the bookshop of their choosing on Bookshop.org, either selecting them by visiting ‘Choose a Bookshop’ or buying ebooks through the bookshop’s own link. That way, they can ensure that the full profit goes to supporting their chosen shop. Alternatively, profits from orders without a specified bookshop go to a shared profit pool, which is distributed among all participating bookshops on the platform, further benefitting the literary community.

“One of the best things about the eBook revolution has been the ability to reach readers who can’t access traditional books,” remarks Erin Kelly, author of He Said/She Said and The Poison Tree. “I’m thrilled that the ultimate inclusive format is now available on Bookshop.org, and can contribute to the UK’s precious independent bookseller network.”