45921 - Book Retailers and News Dealers
If you're exploring business opportunities or government contracting within the retail sector, understanding the NAICS code 45921 - Book Retailers and News Dealers is essential. This classification plays a vital role in identifying businesses involved in the retailing of new books and newspapers. Whether you're a bookstore owner or a newsstand operator, this code helps define your industry activities and eligibility for various programs.
What Is NAICS Code 45921?
NAICS code 45921 designates establishments primarily engaged in retailing new books and newspapers. This includes businesses such as bookstores and newsstands that provide the public with a diverse selection of printed materials. These retailers focus on offering new editions rather than used or secondhand items.
Industry Description
- Primary Activity: Retailing new books and newspapers
- Business Model: Operate physical bookstores or newsstands
- Product Range: Books, magazines, newspapers, other printed materials
Sector: Retail Trade
This NAICS code is classified under the broader Retail Trade sector, which encompasses a diverse range of businesses involved in selling goods directly to consumers. The retail trade sector plays a critical role in the economy by providing accessibility and convenience to customers seeking physical or printed media.
Typical Business Types & Activities for NAICS 45921
Businesses falling under NAICS 45921 include:
- Bookstores
- Selling new books of various genres and academic materials
- Newsstands
- Retailing newspapers, magazines, and periodicals
- Magazine and Newspaper Retailers
- Offering a selection of current news publications and periodicals
These businesses often provide additional customer services such as personalized recommendations, special orders, or event hosting (like book signings).
Size Standards for NAICS 45921
To determine eligibility for federal contracts and small business programs, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards based on annual revenue:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Annual Revenue) |
|---|---|---|
| 45921 | Book Retailers and News Dealers | $8.0 million |
Businesses with annual receipts at or below $8 million typically qualify as small businesses under this code.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 45921
Here are some examples of businesses that operate under this NAICS classification:
- Local Independent Bookstores
- National Chain Bookstores (e.g., Barnes & Noble)
- Urban Newsstands in High-Traffic Locations
- Magazine Retail Outlets in Transportation Hubs
- Specialty Book Shops (childrenâs, academic, religious)
NAICS Code 45921 - Book Retailers and News Dealers: Code Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 45921 |
| Industry Title | Book Retailers and News Dealers |
| Sector | Retail Trade |
| Description | Establishments primarily engaged in retailing new books and newspapers, operating bookstores or newsstands. |
| Size Standard | $8.0 million (annual revenue) |
| Typical Activities | Retailing books, newspapers, and magazines |
| Examples | Bookstores, Newsstands, Magazine Retailers |
FAQ: NAICS Code 45921 - Book Retailers and News Dealers
What businesses are included in NAICS code 45921?
Businesses primarily selling new books, newspapers, and magazines through bookstores or newsstands.
Is selling used books included in this code?
No, this code typically applies to new printed materials. Selling used books may fall under different NAICS classifications.
Why is understanding this NAICS code important?
It helps business owners identify their industry classification for taxation, licensing, eligibility in government contracts, and small business programs.
What is the size standard for small businesses under this code?
Businesses with annual receipts of $8 million or less are considered small under this code.
Can online bookstores fall under NAICS 45921?
Online retailing of new books may fall under a different code (e.g., electronic shopping), but physical bookstores are classified under NAICS 45921.
Conclusion
NAICS code 45921, Book Retailers and News Dealers, is a critical classification within the retail trade sector for businesses engaged in selling new printed materials like books and newspapers. By understanding this code and its size standards, businesses can better position themselves for government contracting opportunities and industry compliance.
Whether you're running a neighborhood bookstore or managing a busy newsstand, knowing your NAICS classification ensures youâre accurately represented in business databases and government systems.
Keywords: NAICS code 45921, Book Retailers, News Dealers, Retail Trade, bookstores, newsstands, small business size standards, government contracts, magazine retailers
