The Otago University Students’ Association has announced that the University Bookshop (UBS) has been sold to John Brenssell, with plans for the bookshop to continue operating as an independent bookstore, under the University Bookshop brand, preserving its long-standing heritage in Dunedin's literary community.
The new owner will take over at close of business today. “Mr Brenssell is a well-known figure in the local bookselling industry and currently owns Paper Plus in the Golden Centre, bringing extensive sector experience to the store,” OUSA said in a statement. “As the business transitions, UBS will close for a week or two for restocking. UBS will reopen with a continued focus on serving the wider Dunedin community.” OUSA is still working on plans to open the on-campus textbook store, and thanks the Dunedin public for their support over this period and “urges them to continue supporting the store.”
OUSA had previously announced the relocation of UBS to a smaller, “student-focused on-campus store” on Cumberland Street, designed to “better serve students and ensure long-term sustainability.” According to a media release, relocation reflected broader shifts in retail, including increased operating costs and changing consumer behaviour. Many community members were distraught by OUSA’s original announcement to close UBS, given its operation as the only dedicated indie bookstore in a UNESCO City of Literature.
“OUSA has provided substantial support to UBS over many years, including significant financial contributions and a heavily discounted lease arrangement to help maintain access to textbooks for students,” OUSA told Critic Te Ārohi on the 5th of August. “UBS has been sustained for a long time because OUSA assisted as needed, well beyond what most charities or student associations would be able to justify.” OUSA reported that they had undertaken “full consultation” with UBS staff throughout this “difficult” period.
“Since announcing the closure of the current location, OUSA has been approached by community members interested in taking over the bookshop, and we are engaging with them to reach a positive outcome,” OUSA told Critic on the 26th of August. Sounds like that outcome has been reached.
When approached about the ODT’s reports about NZ Post stopping services on the 27th of August while they “explore options” to continue, but "the limited services and operating hours were not a model NZ Post could support”, OUSA told Critic they could not comment on any negotiations. “We remain committed to supporting a solution that benefits students and the community, if possible.”
