Still Time to Reap the Benefits of ABACUS

The deadline for ABA member booksellers to submit their 2004 financial data to the 2005 ABACUS study is now July 31 (the deadline was extended at the end of June to accommodate ABA's move to new offices). It should be noted, however, that ABA's special projects manager, David Walker, has assured booksellers that they will still receive their customized reports by the end of the summer. Last year, 181 bookstores participated in the study, and the association is very close to meeting this year's goal of having 200 stores submit their data.

In addition to providing participating booksellers with an invaluable analysis of their own business, the ABACUS study is establishing a benchmark for the entire industry. As an added benefit, this year participating bookstores are receiving a coupon for $50 off their next ABA dues renewal.

Completing the survey takes approximately an hour and in return ABA member booksellers receive:

• A detailed, customized report tailored to their business;
• Analyses of how their bookstore measures up to similar independent bookstores;
• An executive summary on the overall financial health of participating independent bookstores;
• Key insights regarding the drivers of independent bookstore profitability;
• Year-to-year trending data for the group as a whole and individually for those who have participated in the past; and
• Opportunities to participate in ancillary studies.

All information provided to the ABACUS study is kept strictly confidential. To access the easy-to-use ABACUS web form, click here.

Questions about the ABACUS study should be directed to Walker at [email protected].