A round-up of major international book retailers shows that while bricks-and-mortar bookselling still remains in a state of flux, an economic upward curve, combined with a growing feeling of optimism, is unmistakable. Most of all, changes are the result of a much more level-headed approach, with impulsive, panic-driven decisions to please shareholders and investors (almost) gone. Instead, a growing number of chains are following the lead of independent booksellers. In the face of declining footfall they are refocusing their efforts towards direct interaction with consumers. Hand-selling, discoverability on the shop floor and knowledgeable staff are among the phrases when new strategies are put into place. Most retailers are prioritising customer loyalty, and focusing on how to retain it. Thus, loyalty schemes are popping up all over the world. One of the major exceptions is Germany, where retail price maintenance does not allow for any discounting of books. The number of people entering a store