Comments on: Does Your Bookshop Have a Firm Pricing Policy?

By: Paul Perry

Paul Perry — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 09:21:42 +0000

I had a bit of a “Black Books” moment yesterday. A customer asked “Can you do better than this $40 on Deverahi’s Synthesiser Guide?”
I replied, “Yes indeed. I believe I can get $70 if I put it on ebay.”
The customer recovered pretty quickly and said “No, I mean, better for ME?”
“No.”

I got the $40.
Anyone who wants a book like this, knows what they go for.
A line I used to use was, ‘Our discount is the same one you can get at the 7-11′.
I am not doing well enough to offend people – but if I ever am, I intend to have a sign saying
“Do not ask for a discount.
First offence: 1 month ban.
Second offence: Life ban.”

By: P. J. Grath

P. J. Grath — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:31:21 +0000

Thanks, Barbra.

By: P. J. Grath

P. J. Grath — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:30:04 +0000

I think the sign is a good way to go if you find yourself getting testy at the questions or if you want to minimize talk. I did it during my grumpy phase–now try to do a little educating when the questions arise. But that can vary from day to day, too!

By: Alfred

Alfred — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:33:40 +0000

I think the best thing to do is to put a sign on the counter that says, “The price marked is the lowest I can afford to sell at on my income.” Shut them down before they even ask, because if they get started, it’ll be harder to get away from on a positive note.

By: Barbra

Barbra — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 03:24:46 +0000

The important thing is to say it firmly but gently, and with a smile. There’s no need to take anyone’s head off for asking.

Well said.