Barnes & Noble, Microsoft end Nook deal

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NEW YORK — Bookseller Barnes & Noble said Thursday it is ending its commercial agreement with Microsoft for its Nook e-book reader ahead of its planned Nook spinoff.

The news came as the largest U.S. traditional bookseller reported second quarter net income that missed expectations.

Barnes & Noble, beset by tough competition from online retailers like Amazon and discount stores like Wal-Mart, said in June that it plans to split off its money-losing Nook e-reader division as it looks to boost shareholder value.

Barnes & Noble struck a deal with Microsoft in 2012 to help support its Nook Business. On Thursday it said it will buy back Microsoft’s $300 million stake in the business.

The company also said the spinoff could occur by the end of August 2015.

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