School stores are a great way to increase student engagement and school spirit while making a profit.
A big decision school store managers face is what to order. There are countless options for spirit wear, school supplies, and novelty items to choose from for your store shelves.
Here is a list of the top 5 school store must-haves to maximize profits:
1. Apparel 
Apparel is a broad category, but it is a proven best seller in most school stores. Order a variety of sweatshirts, T-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, hats, and jackets that feature your school name or logo. In terms of maximizing profits, sweatshirts are your best choice.
2. Drinkware
Water bottles in particular are great items to have in your school store. You can also sell simple cups, tumblers, and coffee mugs. When trying to maximize your profits, water bottles give you the best profit.
3. Bags
Backpacks and bags are must-haves for any school store. Drawcord bags are particularly popular with students. Teachers love tote bags, and athletes especially love duffel bags, so be sure to have lots of different bag styles in stock.
4. School Supplies
Students love school supplies, and they’ll need these essentials all year long. Stock your school store with standard school supplies, like notebooks, folders, and rulers. Consider adding some fun and trendy items, too, like scented pencils and pens, mood erasers, and pencil toppers.
5. Toys and Novelties
With elementary-aged students, toys and novelty items are must-haves for your school store. They’ll want to spend their money on things they can have fun with, like stickers, sunglasses, mini sports balls, and games.
Undecided on which items to buy for your school store? Use our sample program to get product samples and ask the kids what they like best before you order them.