Booksale: Some stores closing but business as usual in many other branches

After announcing that some of its stores were closing as it enters a "new chapter" in its operations, Booksale Philippines assured that it was still business as usual for many of its other branches across the country.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Booksale listed some 40 branches in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao where it continues to service customer needs.

"So apparently there's a rumor that we're shutting down for good... We're not going anywhere! In fact, you can find us at these branches nationwide, just waiting to help you find your next great read!" the company said, adding that customers may also transact via an online shopping platform.

Booksale CEO Josh Sison said in a Facebook post Tuesday that some branches were shuttering, but noted that it has "many exciting plans" for Filipino bookworms.

"As we enter a new chapter in our bookstore’s story, we want to take a moment to thank you, our loyal readers. While some of our branches are closing, we're excited to continue finding new ways to make reading affordable and accessible as we have done so for the past 35 years," Sison said.

"We have so many exciting plans ahead, and we can't wait to share them with you," he said.

Also this week, BookSale announced the permanent closure of its Robinsons Galleria branch on Nov. 30, and Robinsons Bacolod branch on Dec. 8.

Its social media page redirected patrons to other nearby locations.

"Nearest branch to Robinsons Galleria is SM Megamall located at the LGF building A. Nearest branch to Robinsons Bacolod is SM Bacolod located at the 2nd floor. Visit these branches for one last treasure trove adventure!" it said.

Amid the financial crunch of the COVID-19 pandemic, Booksale previously announced closures of other branches, such as Robinsons Place Calasiao, Ayala Legazpi, Porta Vega, and Starmall San Jose in 2020 and 2021.

According to its website, Booksale is "the country's biggest source" of low-priced and unused books from the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It also distributes locally printed Pinoy magazines in English and Filipino. — BAP/VDV, GMA Integrated News