Eastern Michigan University Enhances Campus Store Experience with eCampus.com Partnership
In a significant advancement for students and faculty alike, Eastern Michigan University (EMU) has announced a major expansion of its partnership with eCampus.com aimed at modernizing the campus store experience. Starting in November 2025, the on-campus store will now be managed by eCampus.com, which already runs EMU’s online bookstore. This initiative promises to streamline retail services for students, making it easier than ever to access course materials and EMU-branded merchandise.
Eastern Michigan University, a public institution situated in Ypsilanti, has embarked on this journey to better serve the needs of its community by enhancing both online and in-store shopping experiences. With the newly branded Eastern Outfitters, the campus store is set to become a vibrant hub for everything related to university life—offering apparel, accessories, and gifts that celebrate EMU’s spirit.
The partnership's expansion comes after the successful launch of EMU's online bookstore in Fall 2025, which allows students to purchase and rent the necessary course materials effortlessly. This system directly integrates with EMU’s Student Information System, ensuring an efficient and personalized ordering process. The move not only simplifies the shopping experience but also ensures that students get exactly what they need for their courses, eliminating confusion and unnecessary hassles.
Now, with eCampus.com taking over the Eastern Outfitters operation, customers can expect a comprehensive shopping experience that includes a wider array of EMU-branded merchandise, enhancing school pride and community engagement. From academic textbooks to stylish hoodies, Eastern Outfitters aims to cater to every need of the university community. The decision to remove textbooks from store shelves and offer them exclusively online is an innovative approach that reflects changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements. This strategy not only maximizes inventory variety but also simplifies the textbook procurement process.
Walter Kraft, Vice President for Communications at EMU, expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, "Eastern Outfitters is where EMU pride comes to life. From textbook pickup to your favorite Green and White hoodie, it's your go-to spot for everything Eastern. This exciting partnership with eCampus means a smoother, smarter shopping experience—online and on campus—designed just for you."
As Eastern Michigan University continues to adapt to the evolving needs of its diverse student population, this innovative retail model promises greater convenience, affordability, and a richer variety of products. eCampus.com, founded in 1999, has established itself as a leader in higher education retail, serving more than 400 educational institutions. Their expertise will help transform Eastern Outfitters into a one-stop shop that embodies EMU’s vibrant campus culture.
With the expected launch of the enhanced store in November 2025, EMU aims to create a shopping environment that not only emphasizes ease and accessibility but also reflects the identity and values of the university. This collaboration is anticipated to set a new standard for campus retail services and contribute meaningfully to student engagement.
In addition to traditional retail offerings, Eastern Outfitters will prioritize vital services such as online order pickup and textbook buyback events, ensuring a supporting structure that aids students academically. With a single provider for course materials and retail solutions, EMU’s community can look forward to a cohesive experience that bridges their academic and social lives seamlessly.
For students, faculty, staff, and alumni, the enhancements at Eastern Outfitters promise to transform how they view campus retail, reinforcing their connection to the university while making their lives easier. As EMU continues to innovate in educational practices and student services, both current and future students can expect to enjoy a comprehensive, engaging, and modern campus experience fully aligned with their needs.