You've probably been reading or hearing about several stores already planning to close, tempers are flaring and managements is on edge. Many employees have already quit given the daily unnecessary pressure they've been put under. If you haven't learned this by now, read carefully- NEVER trust management, they are not your friends, many have and many have been later fired or forced out. You are considered a temporary worker in this company, unless you've already made it to Store Manager level. Even then, you better be kissing your RM's a-s and do it well, or you too will be booted out.
It's true, many stores are having trouble meeting payroll. If you aren't hearing your store manager bragging about sales, you should be looking for a new job- a year ago!
This company is doing their best to make everything look all sunshine and rainbows. Hey, we've even got a brand new n–k!!! But just how well are those member cards selling? Not very well, and corporate is not happy about it. Those customers (we call them suckers) are dying off or have already turned to Amazon for their reading.
If you think this company can turn around, you are in a dream state. It's not happening. Unless this company can merge with a retail company that still does well, say, a TJ Maxx or large discount store and of course drop their ridiculous prices (they can't) then you'll be seeing the doors closed and locked for good and very soon.
Be smart employees, do your research and find a GOOD company with SMART people running it, who appreciates good workers, and get out of B&N ASAP.