Management Consulting

Duvall Retail Management Consulting Group (DRM) provides universities with tailored consulting services designed to enhance the operational efficiency and profitability of campus bookstores. Through our specialized consulting packages, we deliver customized operational plans that address your unique needs. Our services include:

Self-Op Review

DRM will conduct a comprehensive review of your bookstore’s current operations, analyzing sales revenue, cost of goods sold, operating expenses, profit margins, and inventory levels. We’ll compare current performance against industry standards to identify gaps and provide actionable recommendations for improvement.

Comparative Review

We’ll perform a thorough analysis of your current bookstore operation, evaluating its performance against the potential benefits of outsourcing. This review includes an in-depth look at factors like sales commissions, capital investments, signing bonuses, and inventory purchasing. Our final recommendations will outline which operational model—self-operation or outsourcing—is the best fit for your institution.

Outsourcing Support

If your bookstore is considering transitioning to an outsourced model, or if your current contract is ending, DRM will guide you through the process. We assist with everything from RFP development to bid management, proposal reviews, comparison summaries, and final negotiations to ensure a seamless transition.

Hybrid Support

DRM also supports hybrid bookstore models, where textbook sales are outsourced to a virtual provider, while maintaining in-house operations for your Spirit Shop. This flexible approach works for stores currently operating independently or under contract, providing a balance between self-operation and outsourcing.

Each of our consulting packages includes detailed financial and operational analyses that measure your bookstore’s performance against industry benchmarks. We then provide a strategic plan to improve key areas such as:

• Inventory management and cost control
• Space utilization and planning
• Staff training and professional development
• Marketing and merchandising
• Enhancing customer service delivery

But our support doesn’t stop with the plan—we’re committed to ensuring your success through hands-on management of the implementation process. This guarantees that your bookstore’s goals and strategies are fully realized. Additionally, our consulting packages can be customized to include:

• Personnel management strategies
• On-site professional support as needed
• Comprehensive staff training and development

With DRM, you have a trusted partner working side-by-side with you to implement a uniquely tailored operational plan, ensuring long-term success for your bookstore.