Québec, February 25, 2026. – Final sales of new books by Québec retailers, publishers and book distributors totalled $705 million in 2024, a 4.1% increase from 2023 ($677 million). For the fourth consecutive year, sales were higher than before the pandemic (in current dollars) and reached their highest level since 2010 ($740 million). However, in 2015 constant dollars, sales were below the pre-pandemic average ($549 million in 2024 vs. $557 million on average from 2015 to 2019).
This information comes from the analysis Les ventes de livres neufs au Québec en 2024 published today by the Observatoire de la culture et des communications of the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Bookstore sales hit 10-year high
After remaining stable for two years, bookstore sales were up 2.7% in 2024 from 2023 ($470 million vs. $458 million) and reached a 10-year high.
Bookstore sales either increased or remained stable in almost all administrative regions. Proportionally, the largest increases were observed in Laurentides (+13.9%) and Chaudière‑Appalaches (+10.7%). Estrie is the only region that posted a decline, albeit small, in bookstore sales (-0.6%).
Another decrease for mass market retailers
Sales by mass market retailers such as discount superstores, department stores, newspaper stands and drugstores were down for a second year in a row in 2024 (-5.7% from 2023) and dropped to a 10-year low.
Publisher and distributor sales up for the fourth consecutive year
Final sales by publishers reached a high in 2024 and totalled $135 million (+14.1% from 2023).
Final sales by distributors also reached a 10-year high with $32 million (+9.4% from 2023).
The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and an essential source of information for all those wishing to learn more about Québec.