UM Partnering with Follett Higher Education to Launch New Bookstore

April 18, 2022

The University of Montevallo bookstore on Main Street will have a new name and customer experience May 31, thanks to a new partnership with Follett Higher Education.

The new name for the campus bookstore, Freddie’s Books and More, is based on the University’s mascot Freddie the Falcon.

With nearly 150 years of experience in higher education, Follett’s partnership brings new resources, innovative technology and enhanced product assortments to the University.

“UM made the decision to partner with Follett due to our shared commitment to driving student outcomes and classroom success,” said B.J. Posey, manager of contracts and purchasing. “Follett’s innovation in campus retail and ecommerce, along with their approach to providing affordable course materials for our students, will enhance our student experience and campus community.”

The company’s focus on innovating campus retail and driving classroom success has led to more than 1,100 campus store partnerships across the U.S and Canada. As the latest to join the Follett network, the University will benefit from the company’s unique industry perspective and expertise, giving students, campus members, fans and alumni a revitalized and engaging campus retail experience.

Follett is making a significant investment into the Montevallo campus retail location on Main Street and the online campus store, giving students and fans anytime/anywhere access to classroom materials and premier fan gear. 

Last year, Follett’s ecommerce platform was ranked No. 57 on Digital Commerce 360’s Top 1,000 report, which analyzes and ranks the leading online retailers in North America. Follett’s ranking directly reflects the company’s ongoing multi-million-dollar ecommerce investment that has allowed Follett to deliver a personalized shopping experience and an even greater selection of inventory to its online shoppers.

Follett’s course materials solutions continue to deliver impressive savings to students throughout its network. Follett’s text rental program was the first of its kind in the campus retail industry and can save students up to 80% compared to purchasing new materials.

“No matter how you choose to shop with us, our number one priority is ensuring our customers and students have affordable access to everything needed for a successful year,” said Kevin Renshaw, vice president for sales and marketing at Follett.

More information on Follett Higher Education can be found at highered.follett.com.