Affinity Programs

ABA has developed an affinity partnership with Alibris/Monsoon Commerce Solutions, which gives member stores an exclusive discount on services assisting in the sale of books online.

ABA has signed an agreement with Independent Merchant Group Inc., an independent merchant services auditing and consulting firm that will put its extensive knowledge of the credit card industry to work for booksellers to achieve the best possible rates with a store’s current credit card processor.

Shipping can be one of the most complicated — and costly — activities for any small business, but there are ways to reduce your shipping costs, including developing an inbound shipping management program, consolidating shipments, using the correct shipping mode and service level, and getting the best discounts.

Joining previously announced ABA affiliated business solution partners, POS vendors, and others at the Winter Institute 8 Consultation Station will be representatives of the Book Industry Charitable Foundation, BookExpo America, Ingram, LIBRIS, and Rafter.com.

As in years past, many small package shipping services and lanes will feature rate increases greater than the average increases the carriers have announced. But this year PartnerShip’s analysis shows the increases are somewhat lower on the more expensive premium services and are higher on deferred services.

On Demand Books has announced a new discount for ABA member bookstores that purchase or lease the Espresso Book Machine before August 1, 2013.

Later this month, bookstores that participated in ABA’s Constant Contact affinity program between April 30, 2011, and April 30, 2012, will receive a rebate check equivalent to their average monthly payment to Constant Contact over the 12-month period.

The ABA Booksellers Lounge (Room 1E07/08 of the Javits Center) will be the place for member booksellers to have their questions answered by ABA and IndieCommerce staff, learn about products and services, have a snack, and relax in a comfy chair.

Gail F. Goodman, president and CEO of Constant Contact, explains why companies should consider online tools an essential part of maintaining and strengthening relationships with customers and how bookstores in particular can put her advice into practice.

Dozens of national organizations and several ABA member booksellers have joined together to protest the banning of books used for the Mexican American Studies program in the Tucson Unified School District.

Beginning January 2, 2012, the cost of envelope and small package shipping via FedEx or UPS is going up.

Booksellers should schedule appointments now to meet with representatives from more than 15 service providers at the Winter Institute’s Consultation Station on Thursday, January 19.

Preparing for the holiday season? Don’t forget to stock up on Mary Engelbreit’s “A Book Is a Present You Can Open Again and Again” paper gift certificates and IndieBound bags.

Most bookstores will never have to deal with severe flooding, but for those in high-risk areas, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program offers coverage provided by national carriers that can be purchased through LIBRIS, the ABA insurance company, or another licensed broker.

ABA member bookstores that participated in the association’s Constant Contact affinity program between April 30, 2010, and April 30, 2011, will soon receive a rebate check.