“Russell Markman is extremely knowledgeable. He makes you feel confident in the realities of how college bookstores and the industry operate today. He was there from beginning to end with us — always available and always ready with his positive energy and expert insights and advice. Russell delivered 100% and I would definitely recommend his services wholeheartedly.”
— Rosalyn Feagins, University of Denver, Assistant Treasurer
By referral, we met with the DU team to learn about their goals and needs. We understood the university was seeking a better way to run its campus store, and to align the store with the mission, vision and values of the university.
Based on our initial discussions, we put together a proposal that addressed each question and goal, from engaging with the committee of key stakeholders, to considering the project timeline, to holding listening sessions, to drafting an RFP and providing expert consulting throughout the process.
We created an RFP for a new contract-managed solution. We outlined the bookstore’s innovative role in bringing the University’s mission of being “a great private university dedicated to the public good” to life through a revitalized, customer-centric retail space.
With the vision and RFP completed, we accompanied the University’s team through the process of ranking proposals, conducting presentations and selecting the new vendor. We crafted the new contract with the University’s team and new campus store provider, and advised on all aspects of the bookstore’s offerings, operations and customer experience.
While the store opened its doors in the summer of 2025, there was an immediate increase in foot traffic from summer students and special event attendees. The combination of course materials,, improved merchandise supporting school spirit, and a wide selection of in-demand supplies has improved sales and positioned the DU Bookstore as the go-to source of campus goods.