Amazon Book Sale Overlaps Independent Bookstore Day

Independent Bookstore Day, an annual event celebrated by over 1,600 indie bookstores across the U.S., aims to promote local businesses and community engagement. This year, the event coincided with Amazon's multi-day book sale, which many independent bookstore supporters and BookTok creators criticized as a deliberate attempt to undercut the holiday through predatory pricing. Amazon denied intentionally targeting Independent Bookstore Day, stating the timing was meant to accommodate additional countries, but skepticism remains among indie bookstore advocates. Bookshop.org and other online platforms supporting independent sellers also highlighted Amazon's dominant market share and called the overlap a calculated move. Despite the tension, participation in Independent Bookstore Day reached record levels this year, reflecting growing support for local bookstores. The situation has intensified ongoing debates about Amazon's influence on the book market and the importance of supporting independent retailers.