Is it something to do with the fact it has to be licensed? I'm assuming a uni store can't just bulk buy from somewhere like Costco, they have to go direct to supplier?
Actually it has more to do with the fact that college bookstores exploit the fact that many students can buy supplies only from the bookstore with grant money, loan money, or scholarships.
Yeah. University bookstores usually get their things from suppliers, but most stores do. Getting things directly from a supplier usually costs the least amount of money. Every person involved in the chain of selling things takes a cut. Less people often means cheaper items. Usually in order to by direct from a supplier requires a minimum order, making it impractical for people to buy directly from the supplier. Retailers however usually do buy directly from the supplier.
Oh yeah, it's bad. It's also preying on the fact that the student or professor might need it right then. You don't want to go to your organic chemistry class without a pencil, do you?
And then the textbooks....
It's price gouging and it's supposed to be illegal.
If you are paying for college yourself it can be avoided with a little preparation. Find out what books you need, order them from Amazon. Buy other school supplies. Never go to class without the things you need.
If you can afford it try to buy as much of this stuff as you can and then reimburse yourself when your refund comes in. Unfortunately this is less of an option depending on your source of college aid and your financial resources.
And then the textbooks....
It's price gouging and it's supposed to be illegal.
If you can afford it try to buy as much of this stuff as you can and then reimburse yourself when your refund comes in. Unfortunately this is less of an option depending on your source of college aid and your financial resources.