Luxor Expands to Become the Czech Republic’s Largest Bookstore Chain
Prague, Czech Republic – March 23, 2026 – Euromedia Group is consolidating its position in the Czech book market by rebranding stores acquired last year under the Luxor brand. This strategic move establishes Luxor as the largest bookstore network in the Czech Republic, boasting over 70 stores across 50 cities.
Acquisition and Expansion
Euromedia Group began the transition of Knihcentrum stores and select Kanzelsberger locations to the Luxor brand on Monday, March 23, 2026. The group previously announced the acquisition of 26 Kanzelsberger stores and 11 Knihcentrum stores, nearly doubling Luxor’s footprint. According to Jan Kanzelsberger Jr., a Kanzelsberger owner, the sale allows both companies to better fulfill their ambition to maintain bookstores as key cultural and community hubs.
Strengthened Logistics and Customer Service
The expanded network will be supported by a modern book warehouse in Stochov, near Prague. This logistics center will ensure efficient and rapid restocking of all Luxor stores, even during peak seasons. Euromedia Group CEO František Mala emphasized the company’s commitment to providing customers with the widest selection and best services available in the Czech market.
Market Context and Challenges
Luxor’s expansion occurs amidst a changing landscape for Czech booksellers. Levná kniha, another large bookstore chain, is currently facing significant financial difficulties and considering bankruptcy due to the impact of the pandemic and inflation. Other key players in the market include Knihy Dobrovský, Kosmas, Megaknihy, Carmelite, Beta Dobrovský and Academia.
Euromedia Group Performance
Despite the expansion, Euromedia Group experienced a 41.4% decrease in net profit in 2024, falling to 19.3 million Czech crowns. However, overall sales increased by 2.7% to 3.02 billion crowns. Book and related item sales rose by 19.7% to 1.66 billion crowns, while electronic book sales increased by 51.7% to 36.7 million crowns.
Czech Book Market Trends
The Czech book market saw a 6% increase in revenue in 2024, reaching 8.2 billion crowns, according to the Association of Czech Booksellers and Publishers. This increase was solely attributable to the introduction of a zero VAT rate on books. While retail sales consolidated and digital format sales grew, the market has not kept pace with inflation, resulting in a real-terms decline, according to Martin Vopěnka, chairman of the association.
Digital Integration and Loyalty Programs
Luxor continues to invest in digital offerings, including the Můj Luxor mobile application for purchasing and consuming ebooks and audiobooks. The Knižní klub, the largest reader loyalty program in the Czech Republic, has also been modernized.