Strategies To Combat Publisher Merchandising Techniques
Publisher merchandising tactics, including increased frequency of unnecessary new editions, unnecessary built-in obsolescence and unnecessary bundling of often unused educational materials, coupled with less timely faculty adoption rates are impacting the prices students pay for textbooks.
High-quality educational materials are imperative but it is also vital faculty work with publishers and bookstores to ensure only reasonable new editions, custom textbooks, and bundled materials are adopted. When these tactics add value for students and enhance their educational experience, the new edition, custom textbook, or bundle is valuable for everyone; however, when they are simply used by publishers to sell more textbooks and limit the number of used textbooks, these tactics must be questioned.
The local bookstore can serve a tremendous role in curbing publishing merchandising tactics and lowering textbook costs to the students. And, while the efforts of the bookstore cannot be done without the support of the institution, the bookstore is in a unique position to take action and make a difference.
Three tips to limit publisher tactics:
- Work closely with your faculty. Call your faculty and verify components required by professors in packages and bundles. Discuss used book availability and buy-back.
- Confirm with faculty any information received from publisher representatives about what is in the package or bundle.
- Stay informed of publisher tactics being used in the industry and on your campus.
There are proactive measures bookstores can take to reduce tactics that drive textbook prices higher. Read the UTA position paper.
Review customizable publisher guidelines.