National Book Store Isn’t Closing—They’re Strengthening Their Online Presence

This week, claims about National Book Store’s closure of branches in “expensive malls” circulated on social media. “Only stand-alone shall stay. Going online,” the rest of the claims read.   

The 80-year-old book store and supplies shop “strongly denies” the social media post, and assures its partners and customers that the story is false. “Despite the significant challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, National Book Store is working tirelessly to adapt to the difficulties posed by the current situation and continue providing every Laking National with books and supplies,” the store said in a statement.  

“In fact,” it continued, “the support given to us by our mall partners, especially Ayala, Robinsons, and SM, in whose malls most of our stores are located, has given us a chance to focus our energies in trying to overcome this crisis and continue to serve our customers and communities.”

However, National Book Store is evaluating a small number of “non-performing locations,” but reassures the public that it is part of their normal course of business.

Most of all, they are strengthening their e-commerce platforms—namely their official website, as well as official stores on Shopee and Lazada. They also have a Text-to-Order via SMS and Viber service, and a Chat-to-Shop scheme on Facebook Messenger. 

Lead photo from National Book Store on Facebook