It's known throughout the industry that MBS prides itself in rolling out the red carpet for bookstores as they visit the company's home office in Columbia, Missouri. That treatment isn't limited to MBS' existing customers, however. The company's doors are also open to stores who don't currently partner with MBS interested in learning more about the services and access to quality used titles MBS can provide, as three stores saw Tuesday.
From left: Nancy Scott, MBS Human Resources; Alan Kinder, NSU General Merchandise Buyer; Amy Hannahs, Denison University Asst. Director of Business Services; Amber Healy, SDSU Bookstore Asst. Director ; Derek Peterson, SDSU Bookstore Director
Representatives from South Dakota State University, Northern State University and Denison University received the grand tour of MBS Oct. 25, learning more about various products, services and system enhancements, as well as seeing the state-of-the-art warehouse facility first-hand.
After a meet-and-greet in the morning, MBS' guests were given a high-level overview of MBS Systems, Wholesale and Direct, including applications and tools such as inSite and Arc, marketing and other key initiatives. It was invaluable information for stores currently researching their fulfillment and systems options.
"Independent stores need to be taking a look at where they are at and how new partners can fit into their goals," said Derek Peterson, director of SDSU's Division of Business and Auxiliary Operations. "I was excited to see what MBS had from a systems standpoint, and was impressed with the hospitality of the people here. The warehouse tour was amazing.”
Denison University Assistant Director of Business Services Amy Hannahs said she attended because it was time for her store to evaluate its systems needs, as well, and the visit to MBS headquarters presented an opportunity to "get a hands-on view of everything in action," including enhancements and tools such as MBS Systems Arc.
“I was interested to see how the MBS System updates to meet the demands of the industry and work better for stores like ours, and also provide us with the tools we need to communicate and do work for other people within our university," she said. "That’s a major part of my job, so those added benefits really spoke to me.”
The level of support MBS Systems customers receive on a continuing basis also stood out.
“Having a dedicated systems client rep to work with you was something we appreciated and lost with our provider," Peterson said. "We were very interested to see it was still in place here at MBS.”
From the size of MBS’ conveyor belt system to the efficiency of its book scanners, Northern State University General Merchandise Buyer Alan Kinder said the warehouse tour stood out to him.
“The warehouse impressed me with all of its working parts," Kinder said. "Even though it’s this big, three-story tall facility, everything blends together and runs smoothly. Plus, the people here are very proud of their work and very conscientious."
Visit MBS today and see how you can strengthen your retail operations. Contact MBS Vice President of Sales Jeff Miller to make arrangements.
