Ep.24 Alex Forbes | Lessons from Fourbears: Reading's Independent Bookshop

In this episode, Alex Forbes, the owner of Fourbears Bookshop shares the story of how he transformed a dream into reality, opening a bookstore during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. We delve into the challenges and rewards of running an independent bookstore, from curating a diverse selection of books to organising community events. Alex discusses the importance of building relationships with customers and fostering a sense of community within the shop. The episode also explores the role of independent bookstores in the digital age and how they can offer unique experiences that online retailers cannot. Alex also shares his insights on marketing, event planning, and the importance of adapting to changing trends.   TIMECODES 00:23 Introduction 00:46 Introduction to Alex & Fourbears 02:14 What Alex likes about Reading and Caversham 03:31 Why Alex decided to open a bookstore 07:00 How COVID-19 helped Alex in the early stages of his business 07:52 Fourbears marketing approach 10:42 How Alex decides what events to run 12:38 Other lessons Alex has learned on his bookshop journey 15:07 Lessons Alex learned from Fourbears Fest 2024, and Fourbears Fest 2025 18:11 Two things that motivated Alex from Fourbears Fest 2024 19:33 What is the place for independent bookstores with modern shopping habits and online businesses like Amazon 22:22 How Alex divides his time as an independent store owner 26:10 Alex's time as a cinema manager and how that's influenced his approach now 28:38 Plans for Fourbears going forwards 31:02 Independent bookshops in Reading 31:52 Alex's takeaways