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New Shopping Experience at University Store

Renovation includes glass storefront and other retail offerings

Much like a department store, the newly renovated University Store includes a glass storefront along the Bryan Center Plaza and features other retail offerings from Duke Stores for a convenient shopping experience.

The renovated space, which was part of the overall Bryan Center makeover, now includes the University Store, Gothic Bookshop, Lobby Shop, Textbook Store and the Duke Technology Center - all under one roof. While each retail shop retains its identity in the centralized space, the shops share new decor, lighting, window displays and merchandise arrangements that make browsing and purchasing more efficient for visitors and the Duke community.

"The stores are more visible and more enticing, especially the Gothic Bookshop, which now has wonderful visibility at the crossroads of the plaza walkways," said Jim Wilkerson, director of trademark licensing and Duke Stores. "It's been a delight to renovate our stores into spaces that make people say, 'wow!' "

Renovation work included adding eight large windows overlooking the Plaza and a new entrance off the Plaza walkway that encourages shoppers to enter and explore. Inside the University Store, the addition of a centralized cash register area on the main level ensures lines move quickly. The store also has expanded hours, including from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays. A portion at the front of the store, including the Lobby Shop, is open to midnight daily.

Gerald Wilson, senior associate dean of Trinity College, shops nearly every week at the Bryan Center for books or the occasional Duke-emblazoned coaster or drink sleeve to give as a gift. He said the biggest difference he notices is how easy it is to find items in the new store.  

"The stores are incredibly welcoming and inviting now," Wilson said. "Most of the items are right out where you can see them, and the last few times I've gone I've noticed items I've never paid attention to before." 

The University Store, which sells Blue Devil clothing and Duke-emblazoned gifts, greeting cards, school supplies and academic regalia, occupies most of the newly renovated space, with the Gothic Bookshop in the sun-drenched north-east corner with most of the windows. Near the entrance inside the Bryan Center, the Lobby Shop sells snacks, groceries and personal items like toothbrushes. 

The lower level features the Duke Technology Center, which includes a Post Office for purchasing mailing supplies and posting letters and packages. The lower level also includes flexible space used by the University Store or the Textbook Store, depending on time of year.

The Technology Center is arranged so customers can test speakers or computers in a relaxed, spacious atmosphere with comfortable seating. 

"We have it set up so that it is easier for our technical consultants to offer assistance and make sure the customer gets the item they really need," said Angel Wingate, senior manager of the Duke Computer Program. 

Online orders and daily deliveries for technology items ensure that no one needs to wait more than 24 hours for a product, she said. 

The Duke Stores staff is looking forward to showing off the new space this week during its biggest sale of the year.

On Oct. 31, Duke Stores hosts the "Spooktacular Sale" from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. During the sale the stores will offer 31 percent off clothing and gifts at the University Store and other retail shops operated by Duke Stores, including the Medical Center Bookstore, East Campus Store and the Terrace Shop. 

"You won't find any deeper discounts on these items at any time of the year," Wilkerson said. "But come prepared for a crowd. The Spooktacular Sale is by far our busiest day of the year."