Waterstones, the UK-based high street bookseller, has secured £125 million in new financing to back its ongoing growth strategy. The funding comprises a £75 million term loan and a £50 million revolving credit facility, jointly arranged by Barclays UK Corporate Bank and HSBC UK Bank.
Founded in 1982, Waterstones now operates close to 320 bookshops across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, alongside a significant online retail presence. This fresh capital will strengthen the company’s balance sheet and provide liquidity to support further investment in both physical stores and digital channels.
The new credit facility is designed to meet Waterstones’ evolving financing needs as it navigates a competitive retail environment and consumer shifts towards online purchasing. The backing from Barclays and HSBC reflects continued confidence from major lenders in Waterstones’ business model and its ability to adapt in a changing market.
With this funding in place, Waterstones is positioned to pursue strategic opportunities for expansion, enhance customer experience across channels, and reinforce its position as a leading bookseller in the UK and beyond.
