Sir Tim Waterstone

Sir Tim founded Waterstones Booksellers in 1982, setting up his first small, experimental store in Old Brompton Road, Kensington. In rapidly building a chain from this tiny base, he promoted a unique model of major and sustained exposure for literary authors. He employed highly read and informed staff, who were passionate about literature. Under this personalised stocking, marketing and staffing model, Waterstones grew within ten years to become the largest bookseller group in Europe. Waterstones continues to thrive and expand to this day, now with over 300 branches.

Sir Tim is also a novelist, with five books published to date. His memoir, The Face Pressed Against a Window, was published by Atlantic Books in February 2019. In 2018 he was awarded a knighthood for his services to bookselling and to charitable organisations.