When Borders was founded in 1971, it was one of the most pioneering companies in the book business, quickly becoming one of the most dominant players in the space. For 40 years, it was known as one of the retail behemoths, but then came the digital age…Border’s last CEO Mike Edwards discusses what we all can learn about digital transformation, the evolution of businesses, and lessons from managing a Company on the brink of failure.
Episode Sources:
Exclusive interview with Borders CEO Mike Edwards: ‘We are here fighting to the end’
Why Borders Failed While Barnes & Noble Survived
5 Reasons Borders Went Out of Business (and What Will Take Its Place)
Borders Closing: Why the Bookstore Chain Failed
Why Borders failed and Barnes & Noble hasn’t: 4 theories
Inside the final days of Borders’ bankruptcy — and what Mike Edwards learned as its last CEO
What Happened in 1985 Important News and Events, Key Technology and Popular Culture
Special Guest:
Mike Edwards
Independent Director
Chairperson of Digital Technology Committee, and Investment Committee Member at Central Garden & Pet
Mr. Edwards previously was an investor and served as President and CEO of Borders Inc. from 2009 until September 2011. Today he is a Director, Chairperson and Investment Committee Member at Central Garden & Pet, a business that owns a portfolio of leading brands in the lawn and garden supplies and the pet supplies industries.