Between now and when students move out, plan to send multiple reminders (email and/or text message) detailing how and where to sell back or return their books. Keep the messages concise while also highlighting the benefits of selling their books back to the campus store. However, is there something more your store can do? If you have the MBS system, the answer is yes.
With 2024 behind us and 2025 underway, let’s take a moment to look back at some of the best tips from 2024 on how to strengthen your college store’s market position.
At the beginning of April, MBS Store Technology Solutions held its biannual training event for system partners. Forums is always a great week of learning and networking for campus stores. MBS System Sales Consultant Jeremy Hawkins joins us today to share three takeaways he learned through the weeklong event.
As a sales consultant with MBS Store Technology Solutions, I do not get to use the system the way a college store does. Undoubtedly, I learn something new or am reminded about a feature of the system with each encounter — whether through formal training, a store visit, or the implementation process with a new system partner. This year’s virtual fall forums training event was no exception. I want to take a moment to share some of the sessions that stuck with me.
Why is the campus store a great place for students, and the rest of the campus community, to shop? With the increase in competition, both on and off campus, it is important to remind your students, faculty and staff why the campus store should be their top choice.
Before 2020, online sales were not a big part of the University of Manitoba (UM) BookStore’s revenue. The brick-and-mortar store served its campus while few students chose to shop online. However, after 2020, all of that changed. In order to continue to serve the school’s community, a robust online presence was essential.
In-store foot traffic probably slows down significantly over the summer. Take this natural lull to develop a strong eCommerce strategy that will boost your store’s online sales for the entire year and help increase summer sales.
For most people, price matters. A great bargain can entice you to make an unplanned purchase. Likewise, a price tag higher than what you anticipated (or high shipping costs) can cause you to hesitate. Price matching is one way to reach price sensitive shoppers and increase sales.
2023 is almost here. After this week, Foreword Online will be taking a short break. We will return on January 9, 2023, with more helpful stories. Let’s take a moment to look back at 2022 and all that we have learned.
In a crowded market, what are the top competitive advantages college stores have? Online and locally new competitors are popping up for college stores. Everyone is vying for students’ attention and likely offering similar deals. However, independent college stores have some innate competitive advantages that can help you keep and expand your market share. Let’s take a look at some of the ways the MBS system helps you leverage your store’s advantages.
Contact our editorial team to set up an interview or to contribute a guest post.
Customer Service
800-325-0530
cserv@mbsbooks.com
Order Processing
800-325-0577
As MBS’ signature publication, Foreword Online is dedicated to offering daily industry insight and cutting-edge news that keep college retailers ahead of the curve. Follow us on social media. Contact us with ideas and feedback. Subscribe for regular updates.
© 2025 MBS. All rights reserved.
