If you’re a book lover or a history enthusiast, you may have heard of The Strand, one of London’s most iconic bookstores. The Strand has been a popular destination for book lovers and tourists alike for over 200 years.
However, in recent years, there has been some confusion over who owns this historic bookstore. Let’s dive into the history and ownership of The Strand.
The History of The Strand
The Strand was originally established in 1801 by two brothers, John and James Lackington. It quickly became known as the “Temple of the Muses” and was one of the largest bookstores in Europe at the time. The store boasted a vast collection of books, many of which were sold at affordable prices.
Over the years, The Strand continued to grow and evolve. In 1860, it moved to its current location at 828-829 Strand. Today, the store occupies three floors and is home to over 18 miles of books.
The Ownership of The Strand
For many years, The Strand was owned by the Daunt family. William Daunt purchased the store in 1891 and it remained in his family for over a century.
However, in 2005, Daunt Books was sold to Waterstones, another well-known bookstore chain in England. Waterstones then acquired Foyles in 2018 and merged with them to form a new company called Waterstones Foyles.
Today, Waterstones Foyles is the owner of The Strand bookstore. However, there has been some controversy surrounding this ownership change.
The Controversy
In recent years, there has been backlash from both customers and employees about the changes that have occurred since Waterstones took ownership of The Strand. Many people have criticized Waterstones for changing the atmosphere of the store and removing some beloved features such as its book stalls and book-themed mosaics.
Additionally, there has been confusion and controversy over the use of the trademarked name “The Strand.” The Strand Magazine, a literary magazine founded in 1891, has accused Waterstones Foyles of trademark infringement for using the name “The Strand” for its bookstore. The magazine argues that it owns the rights to the name and that using it for a different type of business is misleading to customers.
The Future of The Strand
Despite these controversies, The Strand remains a beloved destination for book lovers around the world. While some changes have been made since Waterstones took ownership, many people still appreciate the store’s vast collection of books and its historic charm.
As for the controversy over the name, it remains to be seen how it will be resolved. However, one thing is certain: The Strand will continue to hold a special place in London’s literary history for years to come.