Ottakar's gears up for back to school offensive

Bookseller Ottakar's plans to storm the back-to-school market this autumn, as rival WHSmith continues to face difficulties.

The push will be spearheaded by a partnership with BBC Worldwide, and driven by front-of-store promotions and a three-for-two offer on all BBC Worldwide products.

Ottakar's has built a strong reputation for children's books. BBC Worldwide, the broadcaster's commercial arm, will be the sole supplier of Ottakar's children's learning workbooks, GCSE and standard grade books.

At the end of August, a marketing campaign will culminate when back-to-school merchandise dominates the windows in many of Ottakar's 122 stores.