The hustle and bustle of modern life can make it hard for book lovers to find time to visit their favourite bookstores.
Long commutes, endless workdays, and the constant rush between appointments make many readers long for the simple pleasure of browsing a bookstore and finding that perfect read.
At that moment, have you ever wished for a mini bookshop that you could quickly browse through, allowing you to find something you like, purchase it, and be on your way?
That’s exactly the concept behind BookPod, the book vending machine from local book retailer Twigs Bookstores.
A new chapter in book retail
Founded by Donald Kee, the Managing Director of GR8 Retail Group Sdn Bhd, BookPod offers a solution that brings books directly to where people are, making literature more accessible to Malaysians across the country.
Book vending machines aren’t a new concept. BookXcess has deployed its own book vending machines known as BookBots. Back in 2011, MPH Bookstores attempted to introduce them in Malaysia, but it never quite took off.
However, Arina Amier, the marketing and ecommerce executive at Twigs Bookstore said the idea for BookPod wasn’t a lightbulb moment; it was born out of a genuine understanding of the struggles faced by avid readers.
Kee, with 24 years of experience in the book and gifting omnichannel retail business, noticed a growing trend: people were spending more time commuting or waiting around rather than indulging in their love for reading.
So, they conceived BookPod—a vending machine that instantly satisfies the craving for a new book, when there’s no time to visit a traditional bookstore.
Strategic placement and seamless experience
The choice of locations for the initial deployment of BookPods was no accident.
They specifically selected MRT and LRT stations for their convenience, making it easy for customers to access a BookPod during their daily routines.
Currently, they have placed 12 BookPods across various high-traffic stations.
- MRT Sungai Buloh
- MRT TRX
- MRT Putrajaya Sentral (two machines)
- LRT Wangsa Maju
- LRT Masjid Jamek
- LRT Pasar Seni
- LRT KL Sentral (two machines)
- LRT Abdullah Hukum
- LRT Subang Jaya
- LRT USJ7
Whether it’s during a daily commute, waiting for a flight, or killing time before a doctor’s appointment, BookPod is there to provide that much-needed literary escape.
Kee and his team at Twigs aspire to create a multi-network of BookPods all over Malaysia, fostering a love for reading across diverse communities.
They also aim to provide greater visibility for local authors and contribute to a more literate and informed society.
The machines have already begun to capture the attention of young working professionals, students, and even tourists—those who are always on the move but still crave the tangible experience of holding a book, said Arina.
Using a BookPod is as easy as it gets. Each vending machine is designed with a simple and user-friendly interface, complete with HD touch-screen controls and clear instructions.
The books are displayed in attractive windows, allowing customers to browse the selection before making a choice.
Once a book catches your eye, the process is straightforward: select the book on the touch screen, choose your payment method, and within moments, your book is dispensed, and ready to be enjoyed.
Curating the perfect selection
According to Arina, the books available in each BookPod are carefully curated by a team of buyers at Twigs.
It’s a process that involves careful planning, collaboration with publishers, and a deep understanding of what readers want.
“We prioritise genres that appeal to a broad audience,” Arina explained, “From fiction and non-fiction to young adult novels.”
They also have English, Chinese and Malay books that range from RM12 To RM50.
The team analyses sales data, listens to customer feedback, and collaborates with local publishers to keep the inventory fresh and relevant.
Supporting local authors and publishers is a key focus for BookPod. By offering a platform for independent authors and small publishers, BookPod ensures that readers are exposed to unique and diverse content that they might not easily find elsewhere.
Overcoming challenges
Like any new business venture, the launch of BookPod came with its fair share of challenges.
But Kee and his team were prepared. “We’ve put a lot of thought into ensuring minimal disruption,” Arina said.
The team meticulously planned every detail, from choosing secure locations within partner premises to scheduling routine maintenance checks.
They equipped BookPods with the latest technology, enabling real-time inventory tracking and remote management.
If any issues arise, a dedicated technical support team steps in promptly, ensuring the machines operate smoothly and keep customers satisfied.
Not only that, promoting BookPod involves more than just placing machines in busy locations.
Kee’s team employs a multi-faceted marketing strategy that includes active engagement on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.
The goal is to keep customers informed and excited about the latest book selections and the convenience of using a BookPod.
A BookPod app is also in the works, promising a range of benefits and conveniences for loyal customers. The app will make locating BookPods, discovering new titles, and even enjoying exclusive offers easier.
Looking ahead
BookPod is just the beginning. Kee and his team are already exploring opportunities to expand the number of BookPods.
Potential new locations include airports, corporate and government buildings, hospitals, and universities across Malaysia.
The aim is to make BookPod a ubiquitous part of the Malaysian landscape, bringing books to people wherever they may be.
Interestingly, while many might expect BookPod to eventually integrate digital e-books, Kee has no such plans.
“We want to encourage Malaysians to continue reading physical books as a form of lifestyle,” Arina shared.
As a book lover myself, I find the concept of BookPod to resonate deeply with me. There’s something nostalgic about the tactile experience of flipping through the pages of a book, and I love the idea of making that experience more accessible to everyone.
Kee and his team are not just selling books—they’re preserving a tradition, one BookPod at a time.
- You can learn more about BookPod here.
- Read other articles we’ve written about Malaysian startups here.
Featured Image Credit: Twigs Bookstore
