Fourbears Books based in Caversham was awarded as the Independent Retailer of the Year.
Risk of redundancy gave Alex Forbes the chance to follow his dream of owning a bookshop.
“In 2017 Alex was at risk of redundancy from his office job but, after working for the same company for 15 years, wasn’t sure he was ready to do anything different,” said the nominator.
“Alex had a dream that if he won the lottery he would like to run a bookshop and that’s when the idea of Fourbears Books was first born.”
He didn’t win the lottery but when he did leave his job. In 2020 he opened Fourbears Books in Prospect Street, Caversham.
“The name of the shop was an easy decision; a friend’s children had called Alex ‘Fourbears’ so when he was thinking about a name for the shop, that seemed perfect.”
The nominator said Fourbears hosts many events including a baby reading group, book launches, welcomes visiting authors and in the lead into the Christmas season, Wine and Words
“The most ambitious event is Fourbears Fest for children. The event has grown and in 2025 included many events for both adults and children across various venues.
“Alex is a true entrepreneur, seeing an opportunity which also fulfilled his long-term dream.”
Speaking at the event, Alex said: “I’m so delighted to have won, it’s such a lovely surprise. It’s the icing on top of what has been a brilliant five years since we’ve opened. It’s been such a delight to have been invited along to the awards.
“I’m so touched that people took the time and effort to nominate us. It’s amazing to see everyone here and how we have crossed over with different people here. Redlands, who won School of the Year, we provided their books for their library so it’s great to see them being rewarded for all of the work they have done.
“We’re so proud to be from Caversham, where Vegivores are also from and Walk Works. We’ve got a real traders community spirit in Caversham and we’re so delighted to be a part of it.
“Caversham has such a strong indy presence and I’m so glad we are a small part of that. You walk down the street and see indy bars, indy restaurants, book shops, giftware shops. It’s hard work and I know how hard everyone works so when we have successful nights like these it makes it all the more special.”
