Workshops for New & Prospective Booksellers to Be Held in August and September

Whether you’re testing the waters or already a new owner, learning the business of bookselling — the art as well as the science — is critical for your personal and financial investment.

New and prospective booksellers will have the opportunity to learn about the many different aspects of the bookstore start-up process and the ongoing operations necessary to achieve financial sustainability at upcoming workshops facilitated by Donna Paz Kaufman and Mark Kaufman of The Bookstore Training Group of Paz & Associates. The workshops, which are co-sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, will also feature guest booksellers and trainers who will share their frontline expertise to help workshop participants understand and focus on the most critical aspects of the business to establish a tangible competitive advantage in the face of increased pressure from online outlets and e-books.

“Deciding to Own a Bookstore” will be on Thursday, August 15, and Friday, August 16, in Northville, Michigan. Participants will learn to estimate their start-up investment and potential earnings, understand the latest in industry trends, and see how indie booksellers are successfully competing in today’s bricks-and-clicks retail world.

“Managing for Love & Profit” will be held Monday, September 9, through Thursday, September 12, on Amelia Island, Florida. For new owners and managers, as well as those who plan to open within the next six months, this program focuses on refining competitive advantages, keys to store design, retail buying and inventory management practices, and marketing to build sales and create customer loyalty.

ABA members are eligible for discounted workshop tuition. For more information, visit PazBookBiz.com or call (904) 277-2664.