UpDate - Vol. 16, No. 9
October 31, 1996
Trustees approve Follett bookstore management

     Follett College Stores has been selected to manage the
University Bookstore at the Perkins Student Center, the Campus
Shop at the Trabant University Center and the bookstore facility
on the Wilmington Campus. The agreement was signed on Oct. 25,
following approval by the Finance Committee of the Board of
Trustees. Follett representatives have been on campus since mid-
August to begin the transition, according to Barbara Kreppel,
administrative services.
     There is a trend in universities and colleges to use the
services of specialized outside companies to manage on-campus
stores, Kreppel said. Follet, whose sole focus is operating
college stores, has an excellent track record in this area,
managing more than 500 stores nationwide, with Georgetown
University, Marquette University, University of Oklahoma and
Miami-Dade Community College being among the latest to sign on,
she said.
     "The company brings expertise and experience in the area of
selling books, supplies and insignia apparel and gifts and also
has a strong used book program. Because it is the largest company
in its field, Follett has substantial purchasing power that
translates into a larger variety of products at better prices for
the entire University community," Kreppel said.
     The company also will ensure a stable financial result,
without "roller coaster" fluctuations, according to Kreppel.
Known for its innovative marketing, Follett has organized special
discount promotions during such events as University Center Night
and YoUDee Spirit Night, Kreppel said.
     "Follet is sensitive to the needs and expectations of the
University, which will continue to play a major role and have
input, oversight and approval of products, pricing and
marketing," Kreppel said.