As the Economy Tanked, Brits Opened Bookstores

Rachel Thomas had long dreamed of owning a bookshop, perhaps once she retired from her job as a project manager. She might then have the time and money to open a storefront brimming with the latest titles from authors she loves, and to share them with local readers. She never expected that the right moment would come during a global pandemic in which shoppers barely dared to venture beyond the kitchen or couch.

But since Thomas opened Parade’s End in southwest London last November, she has discovered the benefits: grateful customers and a good deal on her lease. “I wasn’t sure I’d make any money in the first year; I thought I’d be operating at a loss,” Thomas says. “Despite Covid, I broke even, and that’s definitely thanks to the local people.”