Over the past ten years, Norway has witnessed the closure of more than 100 bookstores, according to a recent survey conducted by Klassekampen based on data from the Bokhandlerforeningen (Norwegian Booksellers Association). The number of physical bookstores dropped from 571 in 2015 to just 462 in 2024, marking a loss of 109 stores across the country.
Digital trends and audiobook popularity reshape the market
The main drivers behind this trend are the rise of online shopping and the increasing popularity of audiobooks. As Norwegian readers turn to digital platforms for convenience and greater selection, traditional bookstores struggle to maintain their customer base. The phenomenon affects not only small, independent bookstores and niche publishers like Vega Forlag, but also large retail chains such as Tanum, Libris, and Notabene.
Regional impact: Trøndelag, Innlandet, and Rogaland hit hardest
The regions of Trøndelag, Innlandet, and Rogaland have been the most severely impacted by what many are calling the “Norwegian bookstore death” (bokhandeldøden). According to publisher Sverre M. Nyrønning,
“Fewer bookstores mean fewer sales points, and that is heartbreaking.”
The decline has forced publishers to rethink their sales strategies, increasingly favoring digital distribution channels over traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
The future of physical bookstores in Norway
While some independent bookstores continue to thrive by focusing on curated selections and community events, the overall trend suggests that physical bookstores are becoming rarer in Norway’s cultural landscape. Experts warn that this shift not only impacts book sales but also reduces access to literature, particularly in rural areas.
Unless countermeasures are taken, such as supporting local bookstores or innovating hybrid retail models, the decline of Norway’s bookstores could continue, reshaping the nation’s literary culture for years to come.
