World of Books (Wob) used books

World of Books, now rebranded as Wob, is a leading global seller of used books and media. The company was founded in 2002 by a group of book lovers in the United Kingdom who started by rescuing books from charity shops that were destined for landfill. It has since grown into a massive circular economy business that processes millions of books each year.

The brand is headquartered in Goring-by-Sea, West Sussex, and operates large automated distribution centers in the UK. While the products themselves (the books) were originally manufactured by various publishers worldwide, the service and retail brand originate from the UK. The company focuses heavily on sustainability and is a certified B Corp, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental performance.

In 2021, the company was acquired by Livingbridge, a mid-market private equity firm. This acquisition provided the capital for World of Books to expand its international reach and enhance its technology platforms. The ownership remains centered in London, ensuring the brand stays true to its British roots while serving a global customer base via its online platforms and various marketplaces.