BookCity’s Big Win: Institute Recognized with Prestigious Trade Honor

In a significant recognition of its contributions to Iran’s cultural and economic landscape, BookCity Institute was awarded the highest honor by the Iranian Trade Associations during the National Guilds Day celebration. The ceremony, held on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the International Conference Hall of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), saw Mehdi Firoozan, CEO of BookCity Institute, honored as an outstanding figure in the field of brand development.

Firoozan, the founder of BookCity, is renowned as a visionary entrepreneur who has left an indelible mark on Iran’s literary scene. Since the mid-1990s, he has been instrumental in integrating bookstores into the urban fabric of Iranian cities, creating a network of BookCity stores that have become cultural landmarks across the country.

This recognition of BookCity on National Guilds Day serves as a powerful symbol for cultural guilds, potentially strengthening their position within Iran’s economy. It opens up an important space within Iranian guilds for the revitalization and improvement of the cultural economy, marking a significant development for both the cultural and economic sectors of the country.

BookCity’s impact extends far beyond traditional bookselling. With a presence in over 37 Iranian cities, the institute has become a cornerstone of Iran’s literary and cultural landscape. It offers not only books but also magazines, CDs, and other media, serving as a comprehensive resource for knowledge and entertainment.

Moreover, BookCity’s international reach is evident in its collaboration with the University of Milan and Wolters Kluwer International to produce “Diritto Comerciale Iraniano” (Iranian Commercial Law), a comprehensive guide in Italian that serves as a bridge for commercial engagement between Iran and Italy.

This award not only recognizes BookCity’s success as a business but also acknowledges its crucial role in promoting literacy, fostering intellectual discourse, and preserving Iran’s rich cultural heritage. As BookCity continues to expand its network and influence, it remains a testament to the enduring power of books in shaping society and bridging diverse horizons.