Under new management: Changes coming to BW campus stores

BW's campus stores are open under new management with changes coming for students and other customers.

BW entered into a management contract this summer with Follett, one of the largest operators of campus bookstores in the U.S., self-described as "the world's largest single source of books, entertainment products, digital content and multi-media for libraries, schools and retailers."

Under the agreement with BW, Follett will manage both "The Buzz on Front," which is adjacent to the BW Starbucks at 100 Front Street, as well as the "Union Store at BW" based in Strosacker Hall at 125 Tressel Street.

Competitive textbook options and pricing

The new management contract will offer a more effective delivery of quality merchandise to customers with competitive pricing.

With such a large footprint and purchasing power, the company will be able to provide BW students with expanded rental and digital textbook options.

"We preserve the faculty academic freedom to choose materials," explains Thad Mangum, new campus stores manager. "Textbooks are available online and in-store. Most course materials have both a print and digital option, and many are eligible for our rental program."

The bookstore is also introducing a Price Match Program this fall, and students are encouraged to watch the store website for details.

Name-brand merchandise

Mangum says, over time, shoppers can expect to see an evolving and broad range of well-known brands in the general merchandise category including spirit wear, novelties, office products, technology, gifts and health and beauty items.

"Brands will include Champion, Nike, MVSport and Blue84, with additional brands and styles continually added over the next several months," Mangum says.

"Customers can expect seasonal promotional items and specialty items. We always want to represent a 'Good, Better, Best' range of products for all our customers' needs."

Enhanced online shopping experience

In addition, Follett's online capacity is exceptional and targeted to each distinctive audience, including students, faculty, alumni, athletics and general.

Jacket Express flex dollar payments are now integrated and active in-store and on the new Follett-managed website.

"Students will soon be able to shop for textbooks using their student ID on the website.This will streamline the shopping experience," Mangum says. "Once the cart is created, the student can then select which option (rental, digital or print) they would like to purchase."

Fall textbook ordering and pickup

The Union Store will continue to offer in-store pickup of print textbooks.

For this fall, students are encouraged to order ahead online for shipment to their home address, as time and circumstances permit.

Mangum adds, "We offer book buyback year-round, but the best time to sell would be near the end of each term."

Clearance Sale

Finally, returning customers will find as much as half of regular store merchandise on clearance as Follett transitions the items in stock.

Mangum says a new selection of BW gear will be arriving soon to the Union Store, The Buzz on Front and online, just in time for fall move-in!