Finances - Bookstore

The customized reports and online tools that reporting stores receive in return for filling out the survey provide a full picture of a bookstore’s financial performance and key information for strategic planning.

Ninety-four percent of ABA membership dues are deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses; the rest are not tax-deductible.

The recent panel featured Michael Becher of Industry Insights, the company that assists ABA in compiling the ABACUS report; Brian O’Leary of the Book Industry Study Group; and Allison Risbridger of NPD Group. 

Bookseller panelists discussed best practices for improving landlord relationships, tips for turning a landlord into an advocate for local small businesses, and strategies for lease negotiations.

Booksellers who attended any of ABA’s finance seminars or accessed the presentation online are asked to let us know if they have successfully put any of the session’s tips or tricks into practice.

Recent topics covered include subscription services, loyalty programs, and social media. The November 8 roundtable discussion will focus on co-op, followed by audiobooks on November 29.

During the video conference, indie bookseller experts will discuss how they take advantage of publishers’ co-op funds for advertising and promotions.

Booksellers who missed out on ABA’s educational finance seminar at the Heartland and Mountains & Plains regional trade shows can now see the presentation on BookWeb.

The American Booksellers Association will reprise its popular Principles of Bookstore Finance seminar with events scheduled at two of this year’s regional fall trade shows.