The book e-commerce platform industry is rapidly evolving, driven by growing consumer demand for convenient access to literature. Companies in this sector range from large marketplaces like Amazon to niche platforms focusing on specific genres or used books. With trends leaning towards digital formats, platforms are adopting innovative technologies to enhance user experience and streamline purchasing. Sustainability is also becoming a vital focus, with companies exploring ways to incorporate eco-friendly practices in book distribution and packaging. As the industry broadens its reaches globally, new players constantly emerge, targeting specialized markets to meet unique reader preferences.

This list highlights 23 noteworthy book e-commerce platform companies with varying company sizes and headquarters in multiple countries. These platforms have been founded between 1917 and 2020, showcasing a blend of legacy brands like Barnes & Noble and emerging firms like Bookshop.org. They primarily focus on selling printed and digital books, collectibles, and educational resources, acknowledged for their tailored offerings and customer-centric approaches. Their organizational structures range from small teams to larger corporate entities, contributing to the rich tapestry of the book retail and e-commerce space.

Read on to explore the top book e-commerce platform companies.

Top 23 Book E Commerce Companies

1. ThriftBooks

• Website: thriftbooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: thrift-books

ThriftBooks, founded in 2003 and based in Seattle, Washington, is an online bookstore that specializes in used books and media. With a catalog boasting over 13 million titles, ThriftBooks caters to readers seeking affordable options. The company emphasizes sustainability by recycling books and donating those that are not in demand. Their Reading Rewards program encourages customer loyalty by allowing users to earn points for purchases, which can be redeemed for free books. ThriftBooks has established itself as a significant player in the used book market, appealing to a wide audience, including educators and avid readers. The company operates entirely within the United States and has a workforce of approximately 475 employees, reflecting its substantial presence in the industry.

2. AbeBooks, an Amazon company

• Website: abebooks.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 69%, Germany 14%, United States (USA) 10%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: August 2008
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: abebooks

AbeBooks, an Amazon company, is an online marketplace based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, that specializes in the sale of books, art, and collectibles. Founded in 1996, AbeBooks connects consumers with independent sellers from around the globe, providing access to a vast selection of used, rare, and affordable books. The platform serves a wide range of customers, including individual readers, students, and collectors seeking unique items. AbeBooks is known for its extensive inventory of rare books, first editions, and signed copies, making it a go-to destination for bibliophiles. The company operates multiple international websites, enhancing its reach and accessibility. With a workforce of around 111 employees, AbeBooks has established itself as a significant player in the book e-commerce industry, promoting the sale of not just books but also fine art and collectibles.

3. Barnes and Noble

• Website: barnesandnoble.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Greeley, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $683.0M, June 2019
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: barnes-and-noble

Barnes & Noble Booksellers is a retail company specializing in bookselling, founded in 1917. Headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, it operates approximately 600 retail stores across the United States. The company offers a wide range of products, including physical books, eBooks, and audiobooks, catering to the reading preferences of its customers. Barnes and Noble provides both online and in-store shopping experiences, allowing consumers to choose their preferred method of purchase. The company has made significant investments in its e-commerce platform, enhancing its online presence and accessibility. With a workforce of around 470 employees, Barnes and Noble continues to play a vital role in the book retail industry, adapting to changing consumer habits and preferences.

4. Amarin Book Center Co., Ltd.

• Website: naiin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thailand
• Employee distribution: Thailand 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: amarincenter

Amarin Book Center Co., Ltd., known through its online platform naiin.com, is a significant player in Thailand's book retail market. Founded in 1993, the company has established itself as a go-to destination for book lovers, offering an extensive selection of books, e-books, magazines, and lifestyle products. Their e-commerce platform is designed to provide consumers with easy access to a variety of reading materials, catering to different interests and preferences. The company also engages in promotional activities, such as discounts and special sales events, to attract and retain customers. With a workforce of around 500 to 1000 employees, Amarin Book Center demonstrates a robust operational capacity to support its online retail activities. Their focus on customer service and satisfaction further enhances their position in the competitive book e-commerce market.

5. Buscalibre

• Website: buscalibre.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile
• Employee distribution: Chile 54%, Colombia 16%, Peru 9%, Other 21%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: buscalibre-com

Buscalibre is an online bookstore based in Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile, that has been operational since 2007. The company specializes in providing a comprehensive e-commerce platform for book lovers across various countries, including Argentina, Colombia, and Spain. With a workforce of around 128 employees, Buscalibre has managed to carve out a niche in the Latin American market, offering a wide range of books to consumers. The platform allows customers to select their country, ensuring a tailored shopping experience. This adaptability has helped Buscalibre maintain relevance in a competitive industry, catering to the needs of readers in multiple regions. The company has not reported any external funding, suggesting a focus on organic growth and sustainability in its operations.

6. Empik Group

• Website: praca.empik.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Warsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland
• Employee distribution: Poland 100%
• Founded year: 1948
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: empik-group

Empik Group, founded in 1948 and based in Warsaw, Poland, operates as a retail and e-commerce company. It specializes in a broad array of products, with a strong emphasis on books, music, and digital content. The company serves both individual consumers and businesses through its online marketplace and physical stores, creating a seamless shopping experience. Empik has established itself as a prominent name in the Polish market, boasting over 4 million users on its e-commerce platform. The company also runs various subscription services, including Empik Go for digital content and Virtualo for e-books and audiobooks. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees and a network of more than 250 physical stores across Poland, Empik is well-positioned in the cultural and retail sectors, continuously adapting to the evolving demands of consumers.

7. ValoreBooks

• Website: valorebooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: valorebooks-com

ValoreBooks, founded in 2002 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, operates as a private textbook marketplace. The company specializes in providing college students with options to buy, rent, and sell textbooks online. With a network of over 18,000 verified sellers, ValoreBooks aims to offer significant savings on educational materials, with students reportedly saving an average of $500 per year. The platform not only facilitates transactions between students and sellers but also allows students to sell their textbooks back to the company at competitive prices. ValoreBooks has established itself as a reliable resource for students seeking affordable solutions for their academic needs, emphasizing customer support and ease of use in its operations.

8. B2S Co.,Ltd

• Website: b2s.co.th
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thailand
• Employee distribution: Thailand 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: b2s-thailand

B2S Co.,Ltd, founded in 2002, is a private retail company based in Thailand. With a workforce of around 1,000 to 5,000 employees, B2S has established itself as a significant player in the retail sector, particularly in books and educational materials. The company operates an online shopping platform that caters to a wide audience seeking literature, art supplies, and educational resources. B2S not only sells books but also engages customers through various activities, including book reviews and community events, fostering a culture of reading and learning. Their website features sections for new arrivals, bestsellers, and special promotions, enhancing the shopping experience for consumers. B2S's focus on educational materials and literature positions it as a relevant entity in the book e-commerce space, serving the needs of Thai consumers effectively.

9. Rokomari.com

• Website: rokomari.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Employee distribution: Bangladesh 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rokomari-com

Rokomari.com, founded in 2012 and based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a private online retail store that primarily focuses on books. With a workforce of approximately 192 employees, the company has established itself as a prominent player in the Bangladeshi e-commerce sector. Rokomari.com offers an impressive selection of over 300,000 books across nearly 3,000 categories, catering to a wide range of reader preferences. The platform is designed to provide a seamless shopping experience, featuring options like cash on delivery and home delivery services. In addition to books, Rokomari also sells electronics and household items, but its core strength lies in its extensive book collection. The company has not reported any funding, indicating it has been self-sustained since its inception. Rokomari.com is recognized for its customer-centric approach, making it a go-to destination for book lovers in Bangladesh.

10. Bookshop.org

• Website: bookshop.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, Cambodia 8%
• Latest funding: Pre-seed, $875,000, August 2020
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bookshoporg

Bookshop.org is an online bookstore based in Brooklyn, New York, that was established in 2020. The company operates as a marketplace designed to support local, independent bookstores by allowing consumers to purchase books while contributing to the sustainability of these retailers. Bookshop.org offers a wide selection of books across various genres, along with gift cards and promotional offers. The platform has gained traction in the industry, raising over $32 million for local bookstores, which highlights its commitment to fostering community and supporting independent booksellers. With a focus on customer service, Bookshop.org has been recognized for having the highest-rated customer service among bookstores globally, further solidifying its position in the e-commerce space.

11. Yakaboo.ua

• Website: yakaboo.ua
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
• Employee distribution: Ukraine 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: yakaboo-ua

Yakaboo.ua, based in Kyiv, Ukraine, is an online bookstore that has been operational since 2004. It offers a wide selection of printed books, e-books, audiobooks, and related products, catering primarily to individual consumers in Ukraine. The platform is designed to provide easy access to literature and educational materials, making it a vital resource for readers in the region. Yakaboo has positioned itself as a key player in the Ukrainian book market, promoting reading culture and literacy. The company also engages in various promotional activities and offers a loyalty program to enhance customer experience. With a dedicated team of around 57 employees, Yakaboo continues to adapt to the evolving needs of its customers, ensuring its relevance in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

12. Casa del Libro

• Website: casadellibro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Madrid, Madrid, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1923
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: casa-del-libro

Casa del Libro, founded in 1923 and based in Madrid, Spain, is a private retail company specializing in the sale of books and eBooks. With a workforce of approximately 1,550 employees, the company operates an extensive online store that caters to individual consumers, educational institutions, and businesses. Casa del Libro boasts a catalog of over one million books and more than 700,000 eBooks, making it a prominent destination for book lovers in Spain. The company emphasizes customer convenience by offering free shipping on orders over €19, as well as the option to pick up purchases at one of their numerous physical locations. Their loyalty program, which includes various membership levels, enhances customer engagement and retention. Casa del Libro's commitment to providing a comprehensive selection of literature across multiple genres solidifies its role in the book retail industry.

13. Amazon

• Website: bookdepository.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Germany 20%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-book-depository

Amazon, founded in 2004 and based in London, England, operates Book Depository, an online bookstore that specializes in a wide selection of books. The company is dedicated to improving access to literature, making it easier for customers to find and purchase titles online. With a workforce of approximately 262 employees, Amazon has established a strong presence in the book retail sector. The platform offers various formats, including physical books and digital options through Kindle, catering to different reader preferences. Additionally, Amazon's integration with services like Audible enhances its position in the audiobook market, further demonstrating its commitment to the literary community.

14. Libri GmbH

• Website: libri.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: libri-gmbh

Libri GmbH, founded in 1928 and based in Hamburg, Germany, operates as a logistics and wholesale company specializing in the book industry. With a workforce of around 850 employees, Libri provides a range of services tailored to independent bookstores and publishers. Their offerings include inventory management software, e-commerce solutions, and efficient book distribution services. Libri's extensive catalog features millions of titles, ensuring that their clients have access to a wide selection of books. They also support the e-commerce needs of their customers through tools like Libri.Shopline, a white-label shop solution that allows bookstores to create their own online presence. Additionally, Libri is a member of the tolino alliance, which promotes digital reading solutions in the German book market. Their commitment to innovation and support for independent retailers positions them as a vital partner in the book trade.

15. Gruppo Feltrinelli

• Website: gruppofeltrinelli.it
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Milan, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Italy 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: gruppofeltrinelli

Gruppo Feltrinelli is a prominent publishing and retail company based in Milan, Italy. Founded in 2013, it has quickly established itself as a key player in the book industry, operating over 100 bookstores and a robust e-commerce platform. The company offers a wide array of books, audiovisual content, and cultural events, catering to both consumers and organizations. Gruppo Feltrinelli is known for its commitment to quality literature and educational resources. It has also engaged in various cultural initiatives, including partnerships with other organizations to enhance its offerings. The company is actively involved in the publishing sector and has a significant presence in the Italian market, making it a notable entity in the book retail landscape.

16. Bokaro Students Friend Pvt. Ltd.

• Website: bsfpl-books.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bokaro Steel City, Jharkhand, India
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: bokaro-students-friend-private-limited

Bokaro Students Friend Pvt. Ltd. is a private company based in Bokaro Steel City, Jharkhand, India, founded in 1992. The company specializes in the sale and distribution of books, particularly focusing on educational materials such as NCERT books and school supplies. They cater to students, educational institutions, and individuals, facilitating access to essential educational resources. In addition to their physical distribution capabilities, Bokaro Students Friend Pvt. Ltd. has developed an e-commerce platform that allows customers to order books online. This platform is part of their strategy to adapt to the digital age and meet the needs of a growing customer base. The company operates several branches across different cities in India, enhancing their reach within the local market.

17. Powell's Books

• Website: powells.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: powell%27s-books

Powell's Books is a prominent bookstore chain based in Portland, Oregon, known for its extensive selection of new, used, rare, and out-of-print books. Founded in 1971, the company has built a reputation for catering to readers who seek unique and varied reading materials. Powell's operates both an online platform and several physical store locations, allowing customers to browse and purchase books in multiple formats. The company also engages with its community through events, author signings, and staff recommendations, which further solidifies its position in the book retail industry. Powell's commitment to providing a rich literary experience makes it a notable player in the e-commerce space for books.

18. Eksmo

• Website: eksmo.ru
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Moscow, Moscow, Russia
• Employee distribution: Russia 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: eksmo

Eksmo, founded in 1991 and based in Moscow, is a prominent publishing and retail company in Russia. Specializing in books and related services, Eksmo offers a broad array of literature, including new releases and bestsellers, catering to consumers, libraries, and authors alike. The company not only sells books through its online platform but also provides publishing services, which enhances its role in the literary community. Eksmo hosts author events and engages in various initiatives that promote literature and support writers. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, the company has established itself as a key player in the Russian book market, focusing on both print and digital formats.

19. Rakuten Kobo Inc.

• Website: kobo.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 75%, Ireland 6%, Germany 3%, Other 16%
• Latest funding: November 2011
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kobo-inc-

Rakuten Kobo Inc., founded in 2009 and based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a digital media retailer that specializes in the sale of eBooks, audiobooks, and e-readers. The company operates a robust platform that allows consumers to access a wide array of digital reading materials. Kobo's offerings include a subscription service known as Kobo Plus, which provides users with unlimited access to a vast library of eBooks for a monthly fee. This service not only attracts new customers but also encourages existing users to explore more titles. With a workforce of approximately 630 employees, the company has a significant presence in Canada and also operates in several other countries, including Ireland, Germany, and France. Kobo's commitment to enhancing the reading experience is evident through its various e-reader devices and mobile applications, which are designed to facilitate easy access to their digital content.

20. Alibris

• Website: alibris.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Canada 7%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $4.8M, February 2004
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: alibris

Alibris is an online marketplace based in Berkeley, California, specializing in the sale of books, music, and movies. Founded in 1998, the platform serves as a conduit for consumers to access a vast array of items, including rare and out-of-print books. Alibris allows sellers to list their products, providing them with global exposure through its extensive network. The company has facilitated a marketplace with over 270 million items, making it a significant player in the e-commerce sector. Alibris has received funding, with its last round being a Series E-K in 2004, amounting to $4.8 million. This financial backing has likely supported its operations and growth in the competitive online retail space.

21. Adlibris

• Website: adlibris.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: adlibris

Adlibris Aktiebolag, based in Stockholm, Sweden, is an online bookstore that has been operational since 1997. The company offers an extensive selection of books, games, and craft supplies, catering to both individual consumers and organizations. With a workforce of approximately 361 employees, Adlibris has positioned itself as a key player in the Nordic e-commerce market. The platform is designed to provide a user-friendly shopping experience, emphasizing customer convenience and accessibility. Adlibris boasts a catalog that includes over 13 million titles, making it a significant resource for readers and educators alike. The company also engages in promotional activities and offers competitive pricing, further enhancing its appeal in the online retail space.

22. Estante Virtual

• Website: estantevirtual.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Centro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: estante-virtual

Estante Virtual is an online bookstore based in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, that connects readers with a vast selection of new and used books across various genres. Founded in 2005, the company has grown to employ between 51 and 200 people, all based in Brazil. It serves individual consumers looking for affordable literature while promoting the culture of reuse by supporting small bookstores and second-hand shops throughout the country. The platform not only offers a wide array of books but also emphasizes the importance of accessibility and the democratization of reading. By facilitating connections between readers and local sellers, Estante Virtual plays a significant role in the Brazilian literary market, helping to sustain small businesses and foster a community of readers. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that relies on its operational success and customer engagement.

23. BookPeople

• Website: bookpeople.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bookpeople

BookPeople, founded in 1970 and located in Austin, Texas, is recognized as the largest independent bookstore in the state. The company offers a broad selection of books, gifts, and related products, serving consumers, businesses, and organizations alike. They are known for their personalized recommendations, which help customers find the right books for their needs. BookPeople also provides bulk order options, making it a go-to choice for schools and organizations looking to purchase books in larger quantities. Their website features various shopping categories, including eBooks and audiobooks, and they have developed subscription services that deliver curated book selections directly to customers' doors. The bookstore has received accolades for its community involvement, hosting events and programs that promote literacy and foster a love for reading among all age groups. BookPeople has been recognized multiple times for its contributions to the literary community, including being named Publisher’s Weekly’s bookstore of the year in 2005. They are a proud member of the Austin Independent Business Alliance and the American Booksellers Association, further highlighting their commitment to the book industry.

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