Rossiter Books in Montpellier has been shortlisted for a Book Retailer of the Year Award in the annual British Book Awards.

The winner will be announced in May 2026 and Rossiter Books finds itself in good company for the coveted title, sponsored by Penguin Random House.

The independent bookseller is up against Waterstones, WHSmith, World of Books, Bookshop.org, Frontline Retail Solutions, Books2Door and Monwell.

As a mix of three internet operators, two intermediaries, two big bookselling brands and fast-growing independent Rossiter Books, awards organisers say the shortlist illustrates the variety of channels in modern retail.

Rossiter Books has been in business for 16 years and arrived in Gloucestershire in March 2022.

Tucked away in Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, the team is delighted to be shortlisted and hopes it is a reflection of the company ethos.

Rossiter Books events manager, Carol Bloomfield, said: “With community and curation at the heart of independent bookshops, we add personality and character to the high street.

“The passion of bookshop owners and their booksellers shines through during every visit.

“At Rossiter Books we want customers to enjoy conversation and connection whilst they discover their next read.”

For the first 10 years of trading, Rossiter Books had three shops along the England-Wales border.

It now has six stores with a seventh opening soon, just over the border of Gloucestershire in Ledbury.

The Cheltenham shop trades over two floors. It runs two book groups and hosts author events.

Andy Rossiter, co-owner of Rossiter Books, said: “Making it onto the award shortlist is testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone in our team.

“Our aim has always been to build a chain of quality independent bookshops on local high streets sitting at the centre of the community. We are delighted to have been shortlisted.”

The winner in this category will be announced at the annual awards ceremony on Monday 11th May at Grosvenor House London.