Biblus Group, Georgia’s leading book and stationery retailer, is planning a dual expansion strategy, boosting its digital sales platform while continuing to grow its physical retail presence across the country. Operations Director Sopo Gordadze shared the company’s plans in an interview with bm.ge, outlining both challenges and opportunities in the evolving retail landscape.
“We intend to strengthen our online sales because that’s the direction global commerce is moving in,” said Gordadze. “However, that does not mean we’re stepping back from our physical presence. On the contrary, we’re actively planning to open new stores. Development on both fronts will continue.”
According to Gordadze, Biblus will open three new stores by the end of the year, two in Tbilisi and one in the regional city of Telavi.
“While online retail is growing globally, the shift isn’t as significant in Georgia,” she explained. “Customers still overwhelmingly prefer visiting physical bookstores. It’s not just about buying a book, it’s an emotional experience, a form of entertainment. That unique atmosphere can't be replicated online.”
At present, around 10% of Biblus’ total sales come from online transactions, while the remaining 90% are generated in-store. Gordadze attributes this to the retailer’s extensive national footprint. With stores in almost every region of Georgia, Biblus remains easily accessible to most customers, which diminishes the urgency for online purchasing.
“We’ve built a strong regional presence. It’s relatively easy for customers to find a nearby store, which is why the majority still choose in-person shopping,” she said.
Despite global economic uncertainties and changing consumer habits, Biblus Group has managed to maintain a stable performance in 2024. Although the company hasn’t recorded significant growth this year, Gordadze emphasizes that stability is a key success factor in the current climate.
“We’re not seeing a dramatic sales increase, but we’re not in decline either. Maintaining our current performance level, especially given economic pressures, is a positive sign,” she noted.
As Georgia's largest network in book and stationery distribution, Biblus Group continues to adapt to customer needs and market shifts. With its strategic focus on expanding both online capabilities and physical access, the company aims to remain at the forefront of the country’s retail sector.
