Diss Publishing writes its own place in history books in 100th year

While other big names have come and gone, Diss Publishing is one that has become almost synonymous with the town.

Established in 1925, the Mere Street bookshop has been one constant in a fast-changing world.

Having overcome a host of challenges, including the digital revolution, it is now celebrating its centenary year – and is determined not to stop there.

Owner Birgitte Mager said the milestone was an extraordinary feat for the business, which can actually trace its roots back even further – as far back as 1864.

“We are absolutely delighted as a family to have reached 100 years and it is a credit to my late father and for being so entrepreneurial,” she said.

“It is quite extraordinary to think that, as a bookshop, we are still standing as one of the oldest names in the town.”

Diss Publishing, which the Mager family has run since 1969, began life under its printing presses at 1 Mere Street, where six newspapers were produced every week. The shop was also a lending library.

Shortly after branching out to become a newsagents, it moved from the printing press to its current home at 40 Mere Street, which was an old repair garage in the early 1970s.

Its current home is just under 20 years old, with most of the building demolished and replaced with a light and airy timber frame, giving more than 2,000 square feet of space.

Mrs Mager, who has run the shop since 1997, said: “We are Norfolk people and I think my return from the city helped us to keep tabs on the financial side of things.

“We have diversified over the years and, although we cannot please everyone, we have incredibly loyal, long-serving staff and customers, so we must have the right formula.”

The shop has had its share of plaudits over the years, and was named Romantic Bookseller of the Year in November 2023 by the Romantic Novelists’ Association.

On top of this, the shop regularly has events to showcase the work of authors who live in the area, which includes Louis de Bernières, famous for his war novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.

“Our authors and customers from around here and further afield strongly support us as an independent bookshop and it is that mutual respect that has helped us to stand the test of time,” said Mrs Mager. “We have a fantastic team here now and over the years that really want to give back to Diss.

“So, from the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank everyone that has supported us, as loyalty is everything and so many people have helped to make this such a special place in the high street of Diss for so long.”

The bookshop is running a monthly prize draw to celebrate its 100th anniversary, with support from its suppliers.

Throughout this year, anyone who spends £10 in the shop will be given three tickets for the draw, with prizes of up to £100 up for grabs.

Mrs Mager added: “It is one of our ways to give back to those that still feel we are an important part of the town.

“It is incredible to think that the foresight of my family has contributed to such a long-standing business.

“Our next goal is to get someone in to run our cafe and, hopefully, we can carry on evolving and Diss Publishing will see another 100 years.”