Loons

Am I the Only Bookworm Crying Rip-Off??

I walked into our local bookstore today and was once again very annoyed to discover that they still don’t get it - they continue ripping off book buyers, despite our soaring Canadian dollar - which has been steadily climbing for the past year and is currently hovering at par or higher than the American dollar. Oh sure, they have graciously slapped 30% discount stickers on bestsellers and other “special promotional offers” but all other stock still has NOT been discounted. Obviously, they expect consumers to continue paying the “Canadian” price which generally runs 3 to 4 dollars higher than the “American” price.

Well, not this consumer! I handed off my selections to a nearby clerk for re-shelving, then headed to check out to once again vent my disgust with these business practices. And was once again told, “it’s not up to us”. “Of course not,” I said. “It’s management. How do I get hold of someone in management who’s actually listening?” Imagine my surprise when this time they didn’t just say “we’ll make sure to forward your complaint to the proper channels” but handed over a sheet inviting me to share my feedback.

I certainly plan to do so and hope that at least a few other Canadian bookworms will do the same. Perhaps if we make enough noise, booksellers will finally get our message loud and clear.

Indigo Books and Music Inc. - pricing@indigo.ca

Canadian Booksellers Association — sdayus@cbabook.org

Canadian Publishers Council — (416) 322-7011

Martina