Ideas, information and industry news for collegiate retailers

Last year, Earth Day was observed by more than 1 billion people in 192 countries. This worldwide event, celebrated on April 22, inspires people to come together in an effort to reduce environmental destruction, and provide for an Earth that future generations can enjoy.

Valentine's Day is all about honoring those we care about, so many college stores took the opportunity to thank their loyal customers with fun events, interactive promotions, and even big sales. Take a look at how a few stores celebrated the occasion and the results they received:

We all know textbook rush and buyback get a bad rap with students. With this understanding, Bloomsburg University Store is continually looking for new and creative ways to change perception during these events. For example, after attending a CAMEX five years ago, the store decided to implement one of the ideas that had been suggested by a colleague; they installed a camera to broadcast a live feed of the line during rush.

With only one big-box book retailer serving the industry, many readers across the country have been left without a place to find their favorite trade books. Rob Duvall, text specialist at College Corner Coffee and Books , took note of this need when opening his store’s newest location.

Theodor Seuss Geisel, more commonly known under his pen name, Dr. Seuss, was a champion of reading for all ages. His works are favorites of generations and continue to inspire those both young and old. In honor of this great literary mind, celebrate his birthday on March 2 with a day full of fun!

The Skidmore Shop is one store that knows how to connect with college students. Their array of social programming includes everything from a weekly Farmer’s Market to local restaurants who let students sample a big tasting menu at the store. One event that the store is known for, however, is Newfie Night.

Between the holidays, a once-in-a-century kind of date, buyback, and even the end of the world predictions, December 2012 offered lots of opportunities for creative events in college stores! Take a look as a few discuss how they promoted these exciting occurrences and the engagement they were able to create with students as a result!

With only 28 days, February is completely finished in just four short weeks. However, this month can still pack a punch for your store with fun, limited-time sales of selected merchandise. Just follow these steps to make them easy!

Buyback is a bi-annual occurrence for nearly every college store; however, one thing that’s often missing from the event is the element of fun. Recognizing that trend, Iowa State University Book Store decided to take a different approach this semester.

As football season intensifies with the approaching playoffs, your store is preparing for an influx of students as they start a new semester.

We all know there are many advantages to shopping at the bookstore but, with tough competition from other textbook sellers, you need to explain why you’re the best option to students. This month’s marketing plan gives you a game plan that is sure to have students rushing the store.