A multi-case study on family management of used bookstores in Natal

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the family control of 2 second-hand bookstores located in the city of Natal, capital of Rio Grande do Norte. It is known that the Potiguar capital has a second-hand bookstores culture , boasting  more than 10 operating second-hand bookstores in 2020. The research was then carried out with two large businesses in the field.

Method: a documentary research is taken into account and content analysis in 2 family-run second-hand bookshops in Natal. For that, an interview with the owners was carried out, who answered five questions (start of activity, control, acquisition of goods, work team x taxes and future of the activity x attractiveness).

Main results: Showed  that entrepreneurs remain in the business because they believe in the diversity of the material offered, not only betting on teaching material that serves only a seasonal period, one of the second-hand bookstores also invests in antiques, a niche  that has a loyal audience within the city, as well as by customers who seek exclusive products.

Contributions and relevance: studies regarding  second-hand book business are rare. The same can be said about family businesses that have been in the market for more than 40 years. Therefore, it is a fact that the principle of continuity is relevant and should be emphasized for research on long-lived trades.