WHAT IS BAseline?
BAseline is a popular, valued, and FREE business comparison tool available to all independent BA members in the UK who have physical bookshops. The confidential service is provided by the BA to help booksellers gain more insight into their businesses. 

WHO CAN TAKE PART?
BAseline is available to all UK-based independent booksellers who are BA members, have physical bookshops and have been trading since at least 1 January 2025.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
The BAseline forms for first-time participants will be available from the end of March. The pre-populated forms (for those who have participated in the past) will be sent out in early April. Booksellers should complete the form, submitting figures relating to their turnover, margins, overheads, opening hours, staff numbers and trading space which are then analysed by NielsenIQ BookData. All figures are treated in the strictest confidence. Should you require guidance in completing the form, the BA and NielsenIQ BookData are here to help. We can arrange for you to have free access to a dedicated mentor to take you through the form step by step. Your mentor will also be able to assist you in interpreting the reports that you receive at the end of the process.

The deadline for submitting the completed BAseline form is 29 May 2026.


WHAT DO I GET OUT OF IT?
Participating booksellers hear back from NielsenIQ BookData with an overview report on the independent sector as well as a bespoke report containing constructive, actionable data.

The feedback from the BAseline exercise allows booksellers to review areas such as sales, margins,  product mix, staff costs and overheads.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?
To sign up for BAseline or to ask for more information, please contact Kate Gunning: [email protected]