On the other hand, some students such as Linda Kissell are excited about the possibility of a national bookstore moving in. Instead it is an indication that State College is growing and moving away from the small town atmosphere, she said. Students are always looking for the cheapest prices. But Lisa Bayer, Penn State Press marketing manager, said she has seen what national chains can do to local businesses. National conglomerates move into areas where other stores are doing well and take over the market, forcing the local business to close, she said.
Super stores operate by a parasitic strategy.
For the most part, places like Border's are strictly business. Beck said he enjoys seeing all kinds of business, and competition is healthy and necessary. These students' concerns with low prices and lack of concern for quality service is precisely what Ramsey said he is worried about.