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Why Should I Complete ABACUS?
Printer-friendly versionThe deadline to complete the ABACUS survey will be here before you know it. We are delighted to offer a chance for a full scholarship to Winter Institute 2024 for all participating stores! A drawing will be held once the deadline has passed.
July 23 is the last day to complete the survey. There will be no extensions this year.
What is ABACUS?
ABACUS is a free annual report filled with detailed information highlighting how your store compares to other stores in a range of areas, including profitability, productivity, and financial management. The data is sliced to allow for several kinds of comparison: compare by region, stores with similar sales volume, type of store (children’s stores can compare with other children’s stores, for example_, and minimum wage (as a way to compare based on the cost of living in your area).
Why should I complete it?
ABACUS can be one of the most useful tools for your business and for our industry. Stores use it to negotiate leases, analyze their financials, educate schools about the importance of buying local, and so much more! ABA uses it to advocate for stores and lobby for better terms with publishers, apply for grants, and to inform our educational programming. ABACUS is also a great way to teach your staff about bookstore financials. This data is critical to our industry.
How do I complete the survey?
Have your tax return and/or trial balance, and year-to-date Z report from your POS handy. Although this year’s questionnaire is shorter and more user-friendly than ever, you don't have to complete ABACUS in one sitting. Input saves automatically, so you can come back to it later.
Log in to ABACUSBenchmarking.com or refer to the email sent June 9 from [email protected] with the subject line “ABACUS Benchmarking Survey.”
Help is available! We can walk you through the whole process. Email ABA Chief Financial Officer, PK Sindwani at [email protected] or Jake Hackathorne at Industry Insights at [email protected], or attend one of the workshops below for step-by-step instructions and to ask questions. Advance registration is required for ABACUS workshops.