Fifteen major Japanese bookstore chains issued a joint statement Wednesday to reform trading practices after the national bookstore count fell below 10,000 [1].

This decline marks the first time the number of physical bookstores has dropped below this threshold since 1994 [1]. The move signals a critical effort to stabilize a retail sector struggling against the rise of digital media and changing consumer habits.

Among the signatories are prominent chains such as Kinokuniya and Bunkodo [1]. The group aims to implement structural changes to ensure that bookstores can continue to exist in towns across the country [1].

To achieve sustainability, the chains have set specific financial targets to be met by March 2028 [1]. They intend to lower the rate at which books are returned to publishers to 20% [1]. Additionally, the group aims to raise the gross-profit margin on book sales to 30% [1].

Beyond financial margins, the chains plan to share inventory data to optimize stock levels, and reduce waste [1]. This collaborative approach is intended to prevent further closures by improving the efficiency of the supply chain.

As of the end of March 2026, the total number of bookstores in Japan stood at 9,993 [1]. The joint statement emphasizes a collective goal to realize a future where bookstores remain a presence in the community [1].

"Realize a future where bookstores continue to exist in the town," the joint statement said [1].

“The total number of bookstores fell below 10,000 for the first time since 1994.”

The collapse of the 10,000-store threshold represents a psychological and economic tipping point for Japanese print culture. By targeting return rates and profit margins, these chains are attempting to shift the financial burden of unsold inventory away from the retailer, which has historically been a primary driver of bookstore bankruptcies in Japan.