Amazon’s purchase of B&N in February 2017 raised eyebrows, as the online retailer had never before invested in a physical bookstore chain. However, the deal was quickly approved by the U.S.
Department of Justice, and the two companies have since pledged to maintain separate brands and operate independently. While the exact terms of the deal are unknown, it is widely assumed that Amazon will eventually take control of B&N.
There is no definitive answer, but it seems likely that Barnes and Noble will eventually be absorbed into Amazon.com.
This would give Amazon a strong foothold in the book market, and would give the online retailer an even greater advantage over its rivals. If this happens, it will be yet another example of how Amazon has become one of the most powerful companies in the world.