Waterstones starts new Oxford Street chapter with John Lewis opening

The opening marked a return by Waterstones to Oxford Street for the first time in almost a decade. The retailer, which once had four shops on the street, closed the doors to its last one there in 2016.

The tie-up with John Lewis represents another initiative by the department store business to enhance the appeal and customer experience of its shops including Oxford Street. If the tie-up is successful more Waterstones shops may open in other John Lewis locations.

The John Lewis Oxford Street Waterstones will carry approximately 20,000 books, and its opening followed “rising demand” for books in John Lewis stores and online. An events programme at the store includes signings and appearances by authors including presenter Alexander Armstrong and chef Rick Stein.

John Lewis director of services and hospitality Katie Papakonstantinou said the Waterstones opening was “a sign of the significant investment we’re making across John Lewis to benefit the record numbers of customers who shop with us”.