What I find interesting is that in Canada, Chapters-Indigo is faced with many of the same problems/challenges as B&N is in the states. Their decision was to bail on Kobo ownership and put their money into their bricks and mortar stores and non-book related on-line selling. I'm betting there will be some sort of Kobo affiliate money making happening as well, perhaps with referrals coming from the Chapters-Indigo website earning a commission on books in addition to their in-store and on-line sales of devices and accessories.
It may be that B&N will make a similar decision in the future. Right now though, B&N is saying they are going to expand the Nook into international markets (as Kobo was doing). I guess we'll see if they can pull it off.
EDIT: Just saw today's Globe and Mail article on the sale. It covers things I was speculating about.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe...rticle2229733/