RFP - RFP07222026UBS - ADD 01- Student Store Answers 8-17-26.docx

PROCUREMENT SERVICES

CONTRACT SERVICES TEAM

104 AIRPORT DRIVE

SUITE 3500, CB #1100

CHAPEL HILL, NC 27599-1100

T 919.962.9463 mark_sillman@unc.edu

FAILURE TO RETURN THIS ADDENDUM IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS MAY SUBJECT YOUR PROPOSAL TO REJECTION.

To: Prospective Offerors

This addendum is being issued to subject RFP to answer questions raised during the time for questions allowed for in the RFP. All responses are to be submitted accordingly. All other information contained in the RFP remains the same.

Question 01: How does the University define success for this partnership in years 1, 3, and 5 (cost reduction, engagement, revenue, satisfaction, etc.)?

Answer: See Vision in RFP Section 1.0, and Goals in RFP Section 5.1.

Question 02: Are there specific pain points with the current bookstore model that prompted this RFP??

Answer: This RFP was issued as part of the University's scheduled procurement process.

Question 03: If budget were not a constraint, what would UNC want students, parents, alumni, and visitors to say after walking through Student Stores five years from now?

Answer: The University wants all customers to experience UNC as the premier Campus Store in the nation.

Question 04: How does the University prioritize student affordability vs. institutional revenue in evaluating proposals?

Answer: Evaluation Criteria are outlined in RFP Section 2.13.

Question 05: Are there preferred models (e.g., guaranteed return vs. variable commission vs. hybrid)?

Answer: Financial requirements are outlined in RFP Attachment A1, A13, 1.13.

Question 06: What has been the annual commission or financial return generated under the current contract?

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 07: What is the Minimum Annual Guarantee under the current contract?

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 08: What capital investments have been made by the incumbent during the current contract term?

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 09: Can historical online sales be provided separately from in-store sales?

Answer: Please see below.

Question 10: How many students currently receive financial aid or sponsorships that require bookstore charging?

Answer: N/A

Question 11: Are there any historical preservation, architectural, branding, or facilities restrictions that would limit interior renovation or exterior storefront modifications?

Answer: Yes. There are historical preservation, architectural, branding, and facilities considerations that may impact interior renovations and exterior storefront modifications. All proposed renovations or modifications should be coordinated through Auxiliary Services to ensure the appropriate campus partners are engaged and all applicable University requirements and standards are met.

Question 12: What percentage of courses currently utilize Inclusive Access, OER, and print vs. digital materials?

Answer: Available sales history data has been provided in the RFP.

Question 13: How does the University currently enforce or encourage faculty adoption deadlines?

Answer: The contractor is responsible for proactively engaging faculty and working collaboratively with the University to encourage timely course material adoptions. As outlined in the RFP, the selected contractor will be expected to provide a Faculty Liaison, adoption tools, reporting, and ongoing outreach to support and improve the course materials adoption process.

Question 14: What challenges has the University experienced with faculty participation in course material adoption?

Answer: As with many institutions, achieving consistent and timely faculty participation in the course materials adoption process can be challenging. The University is seeking a partner that will proactively engage faculty, provide effective adoption tools, and implement strategies that encourage timely participation while educating faculty on the importance of timely adoptions in supporting student affordability, access to course materials, and academic success.

Question 15: Will the University consider student billing for auto-fulfillment of course materials and course material supplies?

Answer: Not at this time.

Question 16: Are there existing APIs or middleware already in place for vendor integrations?

Answer: No open APIs are currently available for vendor use. To accept OneCard payments, the selected vendor will be required to integrate through the CBORD Partnership Program and coordinate with Auxiliary Services and the appropriate campus technology partners.

Question 17: How mature is the current bookstore credit (voucher) system, and what challenges exist today?

Answer: Student Stores does not currently have a credit/voucher program. However, Student Stores partners with various University departments to accommodate specific purchasing and billing needs as they arise.

Question 18: What level of real-time data exchange is required vs. preferred?

Answer: The University does not prescribe a specific real-time data exchange requirement. Contractors should recommend an integration approach that supports efficient operations, timely reporting, and an enhanced customer experience while meeting the technology and integration requirements outlined in the RFP. The University seeks as much visibility into operational and financial data as practical to support informed decision-making, contract oversight, and to ensure the Campus Store is providing the level of service and performance expected by the University.

Question 19: Are there reporting tools or BI platforms currently used that we should align with?

Answer: The University does not require contractors to align with a specific reporting tool or business intelligence (BI) platform. Contractors should describe their reporting capabilities and recommend solutions that provide meaningful operational and financial insights, support data-driven decision-making, and provide the University with the visibility needed to effectively monitor performance. Reporting capabilities should align with the requirements outlined in the RFP.

Question 20: What are the most important KPIs the University wants visibility into?

Answer: Reporting requirements are outlined in the RFP.

Question 21: How quickly can data files be provided for the purpose of setting up data file transfers?

Answer: The University will work collaboratively with the selected contractor to provide the data files necessary to support implementation.

Question 22: What are expectations around student employment levels?

Answer: The University values student employment as an important part of the Campus Store experience. Rather than prescribing specific staffing levels, the University expects contractors to demonstrate a strong commitment to hiring, developing, and retaining student employees while recommending staffing levels appropriate to support operational needs and customer service expectations.

Question 23: What concerns does the University have regarding transition risk (inventory, systems, staffing)?

Answer: The University's primary expectation is a well-planned, well-executed transition that minimizes disruption to students, faculty, staff, and campus operations. Contractors should demonstrate a comprehensive transition plan that addresses inventory, technology and systems integration, staffing, training, communication, and continuity of service.

Question 24: Are the fixtures, shelving, and equipment University-owned versus vendor-owned?

Answer: Existing furniture, fixtures, and equipment available for contractor use are owned by the University, as outlined in the RFP. The selected contractor may utilize these assets and will be responsible for their maintenance during the contract term. Any new facility improvements and fixtures installed by the contractor as part of the required facility investment will become the property of the University in accordance with the terms of the RFP.

Question 25: What transition milestones are considered critical to success?

Answer: Per RFP Attachment A2 section 2.16a, vendors are required to submit a transition plan and timeline.

Question 26: Are there anticipated changes to exclusive campus vendor agreements that may impact operations?

Answer: Not at this time.

Question 27: Is there currently any unamortized amount that would be due should there be a change in vendors?

Answer: No

Question 28: Will this contract include in-venue retail for athletic events?

Answer: No

Question 29: Is there any deferred maintenance or known capital replacement that the next operator will inherit?

Answer: Deferred maintenance of the facility is the University's responsibility.

Question 30: Is branded merchandise over one year old expected to be purchased at the current provider's cost? (This includes aged inventory that is two years and older. Since this is a B2B transaction, is there any language in your current agreement that prohibits negotiations with the current vendor regarding inventory buyout?)

Answer: Inventory purchase requirements are outlined in RFP Section 5.2.1.

Question 31: Are there any existing third-party licensing, technology, merchandising, or service agreements that must be assumed or honored by the successful contractor?

Answer: Apple and Lenovo.

Question 32: Will the awarded vendor be allowed to sell food & beverage?

Answer: Yes. As outlined in the RFP, the contractor may sell convenience items, including packaged food and beverage products, as part of the Campus Store offerings. The Café within Student Stores will continue to be operated by UNC Dining, and all food and beverage offerings must comply with the University's applicable agreements, including its Pouring Rights Agreement.

Question 33: Beyond the weighted criteria, what will ultimately differentiate the winning proposal?

Answer: The Evaluation Process is outlined in RFP Section 2.12

Question 34: What will finalist presentations focus on most?

Answer: A "Presentation Format" document will be distributed in advance of presentations to vendors who are selected to present.

Question 35: How open is the University to reimagining the bookstore as a broader campus service hub with experiences?

Answer: The University is highly open to reimagining Student Stores as a broader campus destination that extends beyond a traditional bookstore.

Question 36: If a partner could significantly reduce student costs while modernizing the experience, how would that be valued relative to traditional campus store models?

Answer: See Vision in RFP Section 1.0, and Goals in RFP Section 5.1.

Question 37: What would make this partnership feel transformational rather than simply operational or transactional?

Answer: The University is looking for Proposals to create the premier Campus Store in the nation.

Question 38: Facility Location – Has consideration been given for storage space if the Campus Store first floor is re-allocated to dining services?

Answer: As outlined in the RFP, the selected contractor is responsible for providing any off-site storage required to support Campus Store operations.

Question 39: Facility Location – Would dining service and Student Stores share the loading dock if the first floor is reallocated to dining services?

Answer: Yes

Question 40: Facility Location – Would dining service and Student Stores share the loading dock if the first floor is reallocated to dining services?

Answer: Yes

Question 41: UNC Obligations – Is the current lighting on the sales floor the responsibility of the institution? Is a lighting repair planned prior to any vendor transition, should one be awarded?

Answer: The University is aware of the current lighting conditions, and repairs are already underway. The University anticipates completing this work prior to the new contract start date. Contractors are welcome to propose additional lighting enhancements, and the University is open to working collaboratively to evaluate improvements that support the overall vision for Student Stores.

Question 42: Which departments are represented on the RFP committee?

Answer: Information is not being provided at this time.

Question 43: We understand UNC-Chapel Hill's preference for a streamlined, single-vendor relationship. Would the University consider a structure in which one partner serves as the clear prime contractor and single point of accountability, while each partner maintains a direct contractual relationship with the University for its respective scope of services?

Answer: No

Question 44: As part of this transition, is UNC-Chapel Hill interested in expanding the use of digital course materials? If so, how would you characterize current faculty interest and readiness to support that shift?

Answer: Faculty have complete academic freedom in terms of selecting course materials and format options.

Question 45: Has the institution conducted any surveys or internal reviews to understand student preferences around course material delivery formats? What student support issues or challenges have been most common?

Answer: Yes. The University has previously assessed student preferences regarding course materials; however, student needs continue to evolve. The selected contractor is encouraged to work collaboratively with the University to further evaluate student preferences and identify opportunities to enhance affordability, accessibility, and the overall student experience throughout the contract.

Question 46: Please provide the most recent course material adoptions list, preferably in Google Sheet or Excel format.

Answer: See attached booklist.

Question 47: What percentage of courses require a textbook? What percentage of courses use courseware, i.e. content with codes such as My Pearson Lab, Cengage Now, Wiley Plus, etc.? What percentage of courses utilize OER?

Answer: See attached booklist.

Question 48: What commission rates does UNC-Chapel Hill currently receive for bookstore merchandise, print course materials, and digital course materials?

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 49: Please identify any signing bonuses, scholarships, sponsorships, capital contributions, or other financial incentives offered or paid by the incumbent bookstore provider, including the amount, purpose, and year each was provided.

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 50: How would UNC-Chapel Hill prioritize the following financial components of a proposal: signing bonus, student scholarships, investment in bookstore facilities, and ongoing commission rates?

Answer: Financial requirements are outlined in RFP Attachment A1, A13, 1.13.

Question 51: Please describe how students utilize their financial aid in the campus store and if there are any restrictions.

Answer: Students may charge required textbooks and approved course-related materials to their student account before financial aid refunds are issued. Eligible financial aid may cover these charges once disbursed. The program is limited to academic purchases for current courses; general merchandise, apparel, food, gifts, non-required technology, and other personal purchases are not eligible.

Question 52: Based on the sales data provided, it appears that a meaningful share of students may be acquiring course materials outside the campus store. Can the University provide insight into where students are purchasing or accessing their materials today, and what factors may be contributing to lower course material sales through the store?

Answer: Industry course materials trends have impacted sales.

Question 53: Please confirm whether the selected contractor will be required to pay any rent, lease expense, occupancy fee, CAM charge, utility charge, custodial charge, security charge, facility maintenance charge, or other recurring facility-related expense for use of the Campus Store space. Please provide a list of annual campus, alumni, orientation, graduation, and athletic events where the current operator has historically activated off-site or through temporary selling points, including available sales history by event, expected staffing requirements, and any restrictions on location, setup, fixtures, POS, or merchandise assortment. Is there an expectation of activating elsewhere on campus during projected high volume game days or events?

Answer: Financial requirements are outlined in RFP Attachment A1, A13, 1.13. (Any sales conducted outside of the Student Stores location must be coordinated through Auxiliary Services and may also require coordination and approval from Athletics, depending on the location or event. Athletics currently has its own merchandise provider, which may limit sales opportunities at Athletics-controlled locations or events.)

Question 54: Is there any expectation of a digital/e-commerce platform - including buy on-line pick up in store for fan merchandise? Could you also please describe the current Campus Store ecommerce platform, including whether to buy online pick-up in store is currently offered for merchandise and/or course materials. Will the selected contractor be expected to migrate historical customer, product, order, and website data, and what support will UNC or the incumbent provide during that transition?

Answer: Yes. The University expects the selected contractor to provide a robust e-commerce platform including buy online and pick up in store (BOPIS). The selected contractor will be responsible for developing a technology implementation and data migration plan as part of the transition. In the event of a vendor change, the incumbent contractor and the selected contractor will be expected to work collaboratively to ensure a successful transition.

Question 55: The Financial Bid Form requests commission rates, MAG, signing bonus, incentives, facility investment, and technology investment. Would UNC consider an alternate financial proposal, clearly marked as an alternate proposal, that includes a management fee, profit-split model, or other financial structure in addition to the required financial bid form?

Answer: As outlined in Section 2.8 of the RFP, the University will consider alternate proposals that are clearly identified, independently priced, and submitted in accordance with the Alternate Proposal requirements. Contractors must also submit the required Financial Bid Form (Attachment A4) as part of their proposal.

Question 56: Are there any commitments to any brands or licensees around specific square footage allocation in the store?

Answer: Not that we are aware of.

Question 57: Can UNC provide schematics of all interior levels and the exterior of the building??

Answer: CAD Drawings are attached.

Question 58: Please provide the current inventory wholesale valuation by category, including new textbooks, used textbooks, digital/course materials where applicable, general books, emblematic merchandise, supplies, convenience, computer products, graduation merchandise, and any obsolete, aged, damaged, or unsaleable inventory excluded from the required purchase.

Answer: Inventory information is not being provided at this time.

Question 59: Please provide a more detailed merchandise sales breakdown for the last three fiscal years, including category, subcategory, channel, gross sales, net sales, margin, units sold, transaction count, average transaction value, and online versus in-store sales where available.

Answer: Information is not available.

Question 60: Please provide the current inventory list of UNC-owned furniture, fixtures, and equipment available for contractor use, including condition, age, ownership status, and any items expected to be removed or replaced before contract commencement.

Answer: Information is not available at this time.

Question 61: Please provide the current outstanding gift card liability, including total unredeemed balance, average age, historical redemption rate, and whether the selected contractor will be reimbursed or credited for honoring pre-existing gift cards.

Answer: Information is not available at this time.

Question 62: For proposals where one vendor provides Course Materials Services and a different vendor provides Retail Bookstore Operations, is it preferred for a single, integrated proposal covering both service areas?

Answer: The University's preference is to receive a cohesive, integrated proposal that clearly demonstrates how both service areas will work together to provide a seamless customer experience.

Question 63: Can UNC provide the course adoption booklist in Excel format for Fall 2025, Spring 2026, and Summer 2026, including course number, section, ISBN, required/recommended designation, enrollment, and cap enrollment?

Answer: Please see below.

Question 64: Can UNC provide annual attempted credit hours and FTE for the most recent three academic years? If available, please provide by term (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Answer: Please see attachments for FT Undergrad enromment and total enrollment for the past 5 years.

Question 65: Attachment A1, A7, 1.7, j. - Our experience has been most vendors requesting an exclusive partnership for the OCMS and course materials delivery, including digital. Could you please clarify the intent of the term "Non-Exclusive Digital Delivery Program" as referenced in the RFP?

Answer: The intent of the "Non-Exclusive Digital Delivery Program" requirement is to preserve the University's flexibility to evaluate evolving digital course materials solutions throughout the contract term. As outlined in the RFP, the University reserves the right to consider alternative digital delivery programs if they are determined to be in the University's best interest.

Question 66: Attachment A1, A7, 1.7, l. - Does UNC currently offer an Inclusive Access program? If so, what percentage of courses/sections are currently participating in an Inclusive Access program?

Answer: No. The University does not currently offer an Inclusive Access program. The University may be interested in exploring Inclusive Access.

Question 67: Attachments A1, A7, 1.7, k. - What percentage of courses use OER/ZTC materials?

Answer: Information is not available at this time.

Question 68: Attachments A1, A7, 1.7, k. - Is there a goal or strategy to increase the adoption and utilization of OER/ZTC materials?

Answer: Yes. The University is committed to increasing the adoption and utilization of OER/ZTC materials where appropriate to support affordability and student success.

Question 69: Attachment A1, A14, 1.14, e. - What Vendor operates the UNC One Card?

Answer: OneCard is run by the unversity.

Question 70: Section 5.2.1, p.19 - If a vendor submits a split/collaborative proposal with a separate course materials provider, does the Section 5.2.1 inventory purchase obligation (new textbooks, used textbooks, general books, general merchandise) divide between the two contractors by category, or does one contractor own the full purchase transaction cost?

Answer: In the event the University accepts a collaborative proposal, the inventory purchase responsibilities will be determined based on the final contractual structure.

Question 71: Section 5.2.2, p.20; Attachment A1, 1.1(b)/(c), p.23 - Is “commencement of the Contract” (used for the 30-day inventory payment window and the contractor’s right to operate) the Effective Date of contract execution, or the July 1, 2027 operational start date referenced elsewhere in the RFP?

Answer: For purposes of Section 5.2.2 and Attachment A1, "commencement of the Contract" refers to the date the selected contractor assumes operation of the Campus Store, which is July 1, 2027.

Question 72: Section 5.2.1, p.19 - Will UNC or the current contractor make the following available during transition: UPCs, product age/season code, web descriptions, clearance status, invoice cost, and current retail price for all inventory subject to purchase?

Answer: The inventory purchase shall be a business-to-business transaction between the selected contractor and the current contractor.

Question 73: Section 5.2.1, p.19 - Is UNC open to negotiating the general merchandise purchase price based on actual product age (e.g., a reduced percentage of invoice/retail price for stock over 6–12 months old) and/or taking into consideration broken size runs?

Answer: Inventory Purchase Requirements are defined in RFP Section 5.2.1, and the inventory purchase shall be a business-to-business transaction between the selected contractor and the current contractor.

Question 74: Section 5.2.4, p.20 - Can UNC provide an inventory list of the existing UNC-owned furniture, fixtures, and equipment available for contractor use?

Answer: Information is not available at this time.

Question 75: Section 2.7, p.9–10; Attachment A4, p.44 - For a collaborative/split proposal between two companies, should each company submit its own Attachment A4 Financial Bid Form, or one joint form? How should the Minimum Annual Guarantee, Signing Bonus and any other combined investments be allocated between two contractors on the evaluation and contract documents?

Answer: Vendors submitting a Collaborative Proposal should determine their strategy re: structuring their financial Proposal. Submittal Requirements and required Forms are clearly identified in the RFP.

Question 76: Section 2.7; Attachment A2, p.9, 37 - How should a split-bid proposal be formatted and labeled so it is not evaluated as non-responsive or “partially fulfilled” against the Attachment A2 submittal requirements?

Answer: Vendors submitting a Collaborative Proposal should determine their strategy re: structuring their financial Proposal. Submittal Requirements and required Forms are clearly identified in the RFP.

Question 77: Attachment H, p.68–69 - Attachment H provides 5-year sales totals by department only. Can UNC break out sales separately for Student Stores, Bull’s Head Bookshop, and CCI/Computer Store, and separately break out Student Stores Website/e-commerce sales from in-store sales, for each of the last 5 fiscal years?

Answer: Bull's Head Bookshop sales are recorded as "Trade Books" in RFP Attachment H, Section 1.5. CCI sales are recorded as part of "Computer Products" in RFP Attachment H, Section 1.5. (Please see attachments for website sales.)

Question 78: Attachment A1, 1.6(a), p.28 - What customer data/email lists will UNC make available to the contractor for marketing (current students, faculty/staff, alumni, donors, athletics ticket holders, current bookstore CRM/loyalty database)? What is the approximate size of each list?

Answer: The contractor is expected to follow all applicable University policies, privacy requirements, communication protocols, and approval processes when marketing to members of the Carolina community and other University-affiliated audiences. Any use of University data or distribution channels must comply with applicable laws, University policies, contractual requirements, and approvals from the appropriate University offices. Audience selection, permitted uses, data access, and communication frequency will be subject to established University requirements and processes.

Question 79: Attachment A1, 1.6, p.28 - What on-campus and digital marketing support does UNC provide directly (signage, digital displays, social channels, email placements) that the contractor’s marketing plan should coordinate with?

Answer: The University can provide access to a variety of campus communication and marketing channels, as appropriate. However, the selected contractor will be responsible for developing, producing, and executing the majority of marketing and promotional efforts, while coordinating with the University to ensure alignment with University branding, policies, and communication priorities.

Question 80: Attachment A1, 1.11(d), p.31 - The facility investment depreciation end date is fixed at June 30, 2034 regardless of when the investment is made or when the contract is executed. Given the 7-year term plus up to three 1-year renewal options could extend past 2034, please confirm whether the payback/depreciation schedule is truly fixed to that calendar date or is intended to track from contract commencement.

Answer: The depreciation schedule is fixed through June 30, 2034, as stated in the RFP.

Question 81: Attachment A1, 1.13(b), p.33 - Please define “contract year” for purposes of the Minimum Annual Guarantee true-up (calendar year, UNC fiscal year, or anniversary of the Effective Date).

Answer: For purposes of the Minimum Annual Guarantee true-up, "Contract Year" shall mean each annual period beginning July 1 and ending June 30, consistent with the University's fiscal year. The first Contract Year shall begin on July 1, 2027. This definition applies regardless of the date the contract is executed.

Question 82: Attachment A1, 1.14(e), p.34 - Is the 2% UNC OneCard transaction fee deducted before or after Commissionable Sales are calculated for commission purposes?

Answer: The 2% UNC OneCard transaction fee shall be deducted from applicable sales after calculating Commissionable Sales. See definition of Commissionable Sales in RFP Section A13.

Question 83: Attachment A1, 1.10(b), p.31 - What is the anticipated size and timeline of the Campus Store space reduction referenced in Section 1.10(b), and will UNC share that detail before proposals are due, since it materially affects the facility plan and sales projections?

Answer: Please plan for the entire first floor of the Campus Store to be unavailable at the start of the contract.

Question 84: Attachment A1, 1.4(j), p.27 - For the Carolina Computing Initiative, what computer hardware brands/vendors are under the current authorized reseller agreement, and what is the annual unit volume?

Answer: Currently Lenovo and Apple. Please see below for sales volume.

Question 85: Attachment A1, A15/1.15, p.35 - Can UNC provide an overview of all discounts currently offered at the Campus Store, including rates and eligibility, for students, faculty/staff, departments, alumni, and any other organizations or groups (e.g., athletics, donors, community partners)?

Answer: Per RFP Section A15, Faculty/Staff and Departmental discounts are not mandated.

Question 86: Attachment A1, 1.1(l), p.23 - Who is UNC's current beverage Pouring Rights partner, and what specific product categories or brands are restricted under that agreement?

Answer: The University maintains a pouring rights agreement with Pepsi. Retail beverage offerings are expected to comply with the University's 80% Pepsi / 20% Coca-Cola stocking requirement.

Question 87: Attachment A1, 1.4(f), p.26 - Who is the current vendor for graduation regalia and diploma frames, and is that relationship exclusive?

Answer: Oak Hall is the current vendor for graduation regalia and is an exclusive relationship with UNC.

Churchill Classics and Framing Success are the current vendors for frames and they are not exclusive relationships.

Question 88: Attachment A1, 1.1(h), p.22 - What does "special order services" currently include, and what is the approximate order volume/frequency?

Answer: Primarily special orders for books, and the volume is minimal.

Question 89: What percentage of overall course material sales in the UNC Student Stores came from financial aid?

Answer: Please seebelow.

Question 90: Are there any sales reflected in the historical sales numbers that were a result of a one-time grant or other funding that will not occur in the future?

Answer: No

Question 91: What percentage of the courses at UNC Chapel Hill utilize free OER content?

Answer: Information is not available.

Question 92: Does UNC Chapel Hill have any direct agreements in place with publishers or other third-party course material providers that operate outside of the current UNC Student Stores?

Answer: No, not that anyone is aware of.

Question 93: What is the current process for UNC Chapel Hill students to utilize their financial aid funds through the UNC Student Stores?

Answer: Eligible students may charge approved educational materials from UNC Student Stores to their student account during designated periods at the beginning of each academic term. These periods align with financial aid disbursement schedules so students can obtain course materials before refunds are available. Student Stores verifies eligibility and provides purchase and return information for posting to student accounts, while the University Cashier Office handles billing, payment processing, and collections.

Question 94: Please provide the "CERTIFICATION FOR CONTRACTS, GRANTS, LOANS, AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS and OMB STANDARD FORM LLL" as it was not included or provided within the RFP document or EVP NC Portal?

Answer: This form is no longer required to be submitted with your RFP response.

Question 95: Please provide a detailed breakdown of the "Computer Products" sales category i.e. devices, accessories, departmental orders, etc.?

Answer: Please see below.

Question 96: Please provide a detailed breakdown of the "OTHER" sales category. What types of products make up this category?

Answer. Please see below.

Question 97: Does the "School Supply" sales category include required and adopted course supplies or just general supplies? Please provide a more detailed breakdown of the school supply category.

Answer: Please see below

Question 98: Attachment H Section 1.5 Page 68: What percentage of sales came from financial aid?

Answer: Please see below

Question 99: Attachment H Section 1.5 Page 68: Is the university's one card used for financial aid transactions?

Answer: No

Question 100: Attachment H Section 1.5 Page 68: What are the current restrictions for financial aid purchases?

Answer: Financial aid purchases are subject to the University's established financial aid policies and procedures, including eligibility requirements and restrictions on allowable purchases.

Question 101: Attachment H Section 1.5 Page 68: Can the student store sell merchandise featuring the number 23 or the name Jordan?

Answer: Yes, provided the merchandise is purchased through Nike/Jordan Brand and complies with applicable University licensing requirements.

Question 102: Attachment H Section 1.5 Page 68: What are the current auxiliary revenues and/or commissions generated by the student store?

Answer: Financial details of the current contract are not being provided as part of this RFP Process.

Question 103: Section 5.0 Subsection 5.1.1 Page 17-18: What are the university's goals for OER over the length of the contract?

Answer: There is not a set goal.

Question 104: Section 5.0 Subsection 5.1.1 Page 17-18: Is there a list of current special events the student store participates in and a list of additional events the university would like a partner to support?

Answer: N/A

Question 105: Section 5.0 Subsection 5.1.1 Page 17-18: What are the student store expectations around NIL merchandise?

Answer: The university would welcome the inclusion of licensed NIL-related merchandise as part of the product mix.

Question 106: Section 5.0 Subsection 5.1.1 Page 17-18: What is the existing inventory value?

Answer: Information is not available at this time.

Question 107: Attachment A1 Section A4 Subsection 1.1 H. Page 23: Does the student store have exclusive rights for graduation regalia and supplies?

Answer: Student Stores currently handles regalia.

Question 108: Attachment A1 Section A4 Subsection 1.4 J. Page 23: What are the current hardware brands that require partnership (CCI)?

Answer: Lenovo and Apple (currently)

Question 109: General: What are the current challenges in the student store's operations that you would like to see addressed?

Answer: See Vision in RFP Section 1.0, and Goals in RFP Section 5.1.

Exceptions to Terms and Conditions.

Question 110: Page 22 1. 1. c. Proposed Language: Right To Operate Campus Store. The contractor shall have the right to operate the Campus Store for UNC throughout the term of the Contract, scheduled to commence July 1, 2027. However, the UNC Administration may authorize the sale of certain items by approved vendors, student groups, or UNC organizations that do not materially impact the Campus Store.

Original Language: Right To Operate Campus Store. The contractor shall have the right to operate the Campus Store for UNC throughout the term of the Contract, scheduled to commence July 1, 2027. However, the UNC Administration may authorize the sale of certain items by approved vendors, student groups, or UNC

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 111: Page 30 1.1.d. Proposed Language: UNC Rights Re: Campus Store Facility. UNC shall have the right to add, remove, or modify the size of the Campus Store facility if UNC deems such additions, removals, or modifications to be in the best interest of UNC. Any changes in square footage that will have a significant impact on Contractor operations at UNC may cause a revision to the financial agreement between UNC and Contractor; provided any changes that may reasonably result in a material impact or modification on Contractor operations at UNC, must be agreed upon by both parties in writing prior to taking effect. In the event both parties cannot agree to such modification, then either party may terminate this Agreement immediately resulting in an effective “without cause” termination.

Original Language: UNC Rights Re: UNC Campus Store Facility. UNC will have the right to add, remove, or modify the size of the Campus Store facility if UNC deems such additions, removals, or modifications to be in the best interest of UNC.

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 112: Page 23 1.1.n. Proposed Language: Special Events. The Contractor shall support special events (e.g., lectures, readings, speakers, Alumni events, athletic events, etc.) on campus by selling books and UNC emblematic merchandise at UNC events, if requested by the UNC as mutually beneficial with adequate prior notification.

Original Language: Special Events. The Campus Store shall support special events (e.g., lectures, readings, speakers, Alumni events, athletic events, etc.) on campus by selling books and UNC merchandise at UNC events.

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 113: Page 37 1.2. B Proposed Language: Online Customer Service Support. The contractor shall provide comprehensive online customer service support, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Customer service support via the Campus Store and OCMS Website (i.e., staffed call hours, live chat customer service assistance, etc.)

• Customer friendly website (i.e., ease of use, clear and concise navigation, etc.)

• Rapid response time to problems, and effective problem resolution

Original Language: Online Customer Service Support. The contractor shall provide comprehensive online customer service support, including, but not limited to, the following:

• 24/7 customer service support via the Campus Store and OCMS Website (i.e., staffed call hours, live chat customer service assistance, etc.)

• Customer friendly website (i.e., ease of use, clear and concise navigation, etc.)

• Rapid response time to problems, and effective problem resolution

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 114: Page 27 1.7.j. Proposed Language: Digital Course Materials/Innovative Course Materials Delivery Mechanisms. The contractor shall provide a non-exclusive digital delivery program that addresses the changing types of course materials, including providing digital course materials, etc. The contractor shall work with UNC Administrators and Faculty to determine the best possible options for the introduction of new technology and delivery mechanisms.

Original Language: Digital Course Materials/Innovative Course Materials Delivery Mechanisms. The contractor shall provide a non-exclusive digital delivery program that addresses the changing types of course materials, including providing digital course materials, etc. The contractor shall work with UNC Administrators and Faculty to determine the best possible options for the introduction of new technology and delivery mechanisms. Throughout the Contract, UNC will continually evaluate digital delivery programs in the marketplace and maintain the right to select alternate digital delivery programs at any time during the Contract, if it is determined that such programs are in the best interests of UNC.

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 115: Page 29 A9.1.9.b Proposed Language: Textbook rentals shall be rented at competitive national prices, and on average shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the retail price.

Original Language: Textbook rentals shall be rented at competitive national prices, and on average shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the new textbook retail price.

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 116: Page30 A.10.1.10b Proposed Language: B. Location. The UNC Campus Store will remain in its current location. It is UNC’s intent during the first two (2) years of the Contract to reduce the amount of space allocated to the Campus Store. The amount of space to be reduced and repurposed by the University shall be determined solely by UNC.

The space available due to the reduction of the Campus Store space will be repurposed to UNC Dining. The selected contractor shall be required to work collaboratively with the University to develop modified facility plans.

UNC will have the right to add, remove, or modify the size of the Campus Store facility if UNC deems such additions, removals, or modifications to be in the best interest of UNC. Any changes in square footage that will have a significant impact on Contractor operations at UNC may cause a revision to the financial agreement between UNC and Contractor; provided any changes that may reasonably result in a material impact or modification on Contractor operations at UNC, must be agreed upon by both parties in writing prior to taking effect. In the event both parties cannot agree to such modification, then either party may terminate this Agreement immediately resulting in an effective “without cause” termination.

Original Language: B. Location. The UNC Campus Store will remain in its current location. It is UNC’s intent during the first two (2) years of the Contract to reduce the amount of space allocated to the Campus Store. The amount of space to be reduced and repurposed by the University shall be determined solely by UNC.

The space available due to the reduction of the Campus Store space will be repurposed to UNC Dining. The selected contractor shall be required to work collaboratively with the University to develop modified facility plans.

UNC will have the right to add, remove, or modify the size of the Campus Store facility if UNC deems such additions, removals, or modifications to be in the best interest of UNC.

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 117: Page 31`A12.1.12. B. Proposed Language: B. Annual Reporting. On an annual basis, the COMPANY shall submit a detailed Campus Store financial statement to UNC. At a minimum, the Campus Store financial statement shall include the following:

• Sales by category/department including commissionable and non-commissionable sales

• Total sales

• Commission paid to UNC

• Course materials units sold by department

• Number of website orders by category/department

• Website/w-commerce sales by category/department

• Other reports as requested by UNC (e.g., customer counts, unit sales, transaction size, adoption data, etc.)

Original Language: Annual Reporting. On an annual basis, the contractor shall submit a detailed Campus Store/OCMS financial statement to UNC. At a minimum, the Campus Store/OCMS financial statement shall include the following:

• Sales by Category/Department (including commissionable and non-commissionable sales)

• Total Sales

• Cost of Goods Sold

• Gross Margin

• Personnel Expenses

• Direct Operating Expenses (itemized by type of expense)

• Indirect Expenses (i.e., management fee, contractor overhead charges)

• Commission Paid to UNC

• Profit/Loss

• Course Materials Units Sold By Department

• Emblematic Merchandise Units Sold (emblematic clothing and emblematic gifts)

• Number of Website Orders by Category/Department

• Website/E-Commerce Sales by Category/Department

• Other Reports as requested by UNC (e.g., customer counts, unit sales, transaction size, adoption data, etc.)

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 118: Page 32 A13.1.13.b Proposed Language: "General Merchandise Commissionable Sales" shall be defined as General Merchandise Gross Sales less:

- Voids

- Customer refunds

- Discounts (provided that the discount amount thereof was included in General Merchandise Gross Sales)

- Sales tax paid by the contractor to any government agency which was collected from customers

- Computer hardware sales

- Sales made at no margin by the contractor

- Discounted sales to faculty and staff

Original Language: "General Merchandise Commissionable Sales" shall be defined as General Merchandise Gross Sales less:

- Voids

- Customer refunds

- Discounts (provided that the discount amount thereof was included in General Merchandise Gross Sales)

- Sales tax paid by the contractor to any government agency which was collected from customers

- Computer hardware sales

- Sales made at no margin by the contractor at the request of UNC

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 119: Page 34 A15.1.15 Proposed Language: d. Gift Cards. The contractor shall accept unredeemed gift cards (i.e., gift cards that were sold to customers by the Campus Store prior to the commencement of the Contract) up to a certain amount and time frame to be determined by both Parties.

Proposed Language: d. Gift Cards. The contractor shall accept unredeemed gift cards (i.e., gift cards that were sold to customers by the Campus Store prior to the commencement of the Contract)

Answer: Questions submitted that request changes to RFP Requirements are not being answered as part of the Q&A.

Question 120: Page 51 Attachment C1: Proposed Language

15. Termination With Cause.

C. In all other instances of material noncompliance with this Agreement including failure to make timely commission payments and other payments due to the UNC as required in this Agreement, except for reasons stated in Section 2.2A, UNC may cite grounds for termination of this Agreement for cause, at any time, by providing the Contractor with written notice citing the instance(s) of the Contractor’s noncompliance with this Agreement. The Contractor shall then have sixty (60) days from the date of the written notice to cure its noncompliance to the reasonable satisfaction of UNC. Notwithstanding the above, in the event that the same event of material willful non-compliance occurs more than once during this Agreement, UNC may terminate this Agreement immediately without the right of cure to the Contractor for such non-compliance.

In the event the Contractor should fail to cure said non-compliance within such sixty (60) day period (or in the case of a non-compliance which cannot be cured within sixty days, should fail to diligently commence such cure within thirty (30) days and diligently continue to pursue such cure thereafter) then UNC, in addition to all other remedies allowed to it, may terminate this Agreement immediately by providing the Contractor with written notice.

D. The Contractor may terminate this Agreement for cause, by providing UNC…