The newest episode of the Independent Thinking Podcast has an amazing guest Mr B's Emporium who speaks with host Alexandra about customer service and retail trends.
There are few places you can escape reality better (on the high street at least) than in a bookshop. Shelves filled with history, memoirs, adventure, sadness, scandal and delight; wonder, joy, pleasure and heartbreak. Books can transport us to another time and remind us that some thoughts and feelings are as old as time itself.
Imagination is at the heart of what makes books and authors so special, of course, but what about the booksellers themselves? Well, it turns out they can be just as imaginative as the authors on their shelves. And that’s what I’ll be exploring this week with two-time-winning bookshop Mr B’s Emporium, based in Bath.
I chat to co-founder Nic about extreme customer service and why it matters, how customers respond to world events through their reading habits, why he remains an optimist about the health of the high street and whether writers can truly predict the future.
Our resources
All Resources-
‘Black Friday’ can be bettered by independent retail – 5 ideas that don’t mean lowering your prices
Eight inspiring indie shops showing how community spirit, creativity and care can help your business – and your high street – thrive.
-
Campaign Focus | November 2025
The imminent Budget announcement and cracking down on illegal shops are among the areas of focus for Bira this month.
-
Independent shops making a difference: 8 ways local retailers strengthen communities
Eight inspiring indie shops showing how community spirit, creativity and care can help your business – and your high street – thrive.
-
High Street Matters: Building Trust
Worried about negative reviews damaging your business? Think again. In the first episode of Season 2 of the High Street Matters podcast, discover how you can turn customer feedback into your secret weapon for growth.
-
Campaign Focus | August 2025
The forthcoming Budget, a letter to the Chancellor on low-value imports and the consistent issue of retail crime are the areas of focus for Bira this month.