After news last year that the Forest Bookshop business was for sale we now have official farewell from owner and local inspiration of many initiatives Doug McLean.

‘Grand 50%“Thank You” Closing Sale’ now on.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that the multi-award winning Forest Books‘Grand 50%“Thank You” Closing Sale’ now on.hop, after nearly 40 years trading in Coleford, is soon to close. At almost 75 years old, I have tried to retire but people just aren’t buying bookshops these days. Moreover, on-line bookshops are a growing problem for all independents (67 closed in 2013). One on-line cut-price giant remains a threat to the book trade by avoiding taxes, receiving millions in government grants, squeezing their suppliers and carriers ’til their pips squeak and by exploiting their staff. Against all the odds, we have countered the threat by providing excellent knowledgeable service and choice. We have kept many of our loyal customers, but the very day the parking charges were introduced in Coleford our footfall plummeted, as it did for other local retailers.

However, the past 40 bookselling years have seen the happiest of times. We’ve had some wonderful events, superb books have passed through our hands, we’ve worked closely with local authors and the Forest community and met so many interesting people.

I would like to say a huge thank you to all our amazing staff, past and present, and to all the Bookshop’s friends and loyal customers wherever they are.”

Doug McLean