Online sales grow an estimated 16.2% in March

A new Stora Enso survey among 2,400 book readers of all ages in the UK, France, Germany, and the US found that people still overwhelmingly prefer physical books for their look, their feel and even their smell. The study, rolled out during March 2022, showed 65% of respondents wanting physical books, versus 21% who preferred e-books and 14% audiobooks. The French showed the strongest preference for physical books of any nation. And most said they preferred to read or listen to fiction books for leisure and to get quality time alone. “These results confirmed our expectations that the market for physical books is set to stay strong, which is good news for our printer and publishing customers,” said Stora Enso’s Jonathan Bakewell, VP, Head of Segment Office and Book Papers. But there were some surprise results from the youngest group (16 to 24 years) polled, where 70% said they preferred physical books over e-books.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $23.80 billion for the retail month of December, the five weeks ended January 1, 2023, an increase of 7.0 percent from $22.24 billion last year. For the 18 weeks ended January 1, 2023, the Company reported net sales of $82.16 billion, an increase of 7.6 percent from $76.34 billion last year.

Fourth Quarter 2022 Summary: Total reported sales of $2.1 billion, up 3% versus the prior year, primarily as a result of higher sales in our B2B distribution division, ODP Business Solutions, offsetting lower sales in our consumer division, Office Depot. Office Depot sales were lower partially driven by 58 fewer retail locations in service compared to the prior year as a result of planned store closures and lower traffic. Consolidated sales results include the favorable impact related to the 53rd week in fourth quarter of 2022 of $128 million. GAAP operating income of $55 million and net income from continuing operations of $36 million, versus $31 million and $32 million, respectively in the prior year. Operating income results include the favorable impact related to the 53rd week in fourth quarter of 2022 of $20 million. Full Year 2022 Summary: Total reported sales of $8.5 billion, flat versus the prior year. Consolidated sales results include the favorable impact related to the 53rd week in 2022 of $128 million. GAAP operating income of $243 million and net income from continuing operations of $178 million, versus $234 million and net income from continuing operations of $187 million, respectively in the prior year. Operating income results include the favorable impact related to the 53rd week in 2022 of $20 million.