$2.5 million renovation introduces immersive Gator retail experiences, expanded premium merchandise, and new customization offerings as part of a renewed 10-year partnership 

GAINESVILLE, Fla., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Follett Higher Education and the University of Florida announced the grand reopening of the newly transformed UF Bookstore today, unveiling a modern, immersive retail destination designed to bring Gator pride to life for students, faculty, alumni, and fans. 

From a 63-foot digital display wall to an expanded Nike and Jordan Brand department, the redesigned bookstore celebrates the traditions, energy, and spirit that define the University of Florida. The $2.5 million renovation, completed by Follett as part of a renewed 10-year partnership with the University of Florida, transforms the campus retail experience with expanded premium merchandise, innovative technology, and new opportunities for personalization.

The grand reopening celebration brought together students, faculty, staff, and members of the Gator community for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, special merchandise launches, appearances by UF’s beloved mascots Albert and Alberta, and interactive experiences throughout the store. Festivities included a 360-degree photo booth, a floral arrangement bar, and opportunities to explore the newly renovated space. 

“The UF Bookstore is an important part of the Gator experience, connecting our campus community with the resources, products, and experiences that make being a Gator special,” said Brandi Renton, Vice President for Business Affairs, University of Florida. “These renovations create a more welcoming, modern space for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors, while reflecting our continued commitment to enhancing the campus experience. We’re grateful for our longstanding partnership with Follett and the shared commitment to student success, affordability, and innovation that will continue to shape the bookstore for years to come.” 

At the heart of the renovation is a focus on creating an experience that feels unique to the campus. The redesigned store features UF’s signature orange and blue throughout, with updated graphics, illuminated displays, and design elements celebrating Gator athletics and beloved university traditions like the Gator Chomp. A redesigned entrance, modern fixtures, and an improved store layout create a more welcoming, seamless shopping experience. 

“Our longstanding relationship with the University of Florida reflects a shared commitment to delivering an exceptional campus experience and the traditions that make UF unique,” said Emmanuel Kolady, Chief Executive Officer of Follett Higher Education. “The newly renovated bookstore builds on that history, bringing Gator pride to life through an enhanced retail experience that connects the campus community.” 

The renovation introduces several amplified retail and personalization experiences, including: 

• A 63-foot digital display wall showcasing Gator athletics, university traditions, historic moments, and dynamic branded content, creating an immersive experience throughout the store. 
• An expanded Nike and Jordan Brand department featuring a broader assortment of premium Gator apparel and merchandise in an elevated shopping environment. 
• A new customization zone where customers can personalize jerseys, T-shirts, and hats, including merchandise celebrating their favorite Gator student-athletes. 
• An expanded NIL merchandise collection through Follett’s partnership with Campus Ink, offering player-specific jerseys and apparel that connect fans with Gator athletes. 
• A dedicated Gatorade-branded retail experience celebrating the iconic brand’s history and connection to the University of Florida, with plans to introduce additional branded apparel, accessories, and exclusive merchandise. 

Beyond the expanded merchandise, the transformation brings together technology, design, and school spirit to create a retail experience that goes beyond traditional campus shopping. The updated space is designed to serve as a destination where students can find what they need, alumni can reconnect with their university, and fans can celebrate their Gator pride. 

The grand reopening marks an exciting new chapter in the University of Florida’s partnership with Follett. The transformed bookstore reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the campus experience, celebrating Gator traditions, and creating a welcoming destination that brings students, faculty, alumni, and fans together. 

About Follett Higher Education 

Follett Higher Education is a leading educational service provider and omnichannel retailer serving more than 1,000 colleges and universities across North America. Follett partners with institutions to deliver course materials, learning tools, and retail experiences that support student success and celebrate the communities it serves. Learn more at Follett.com.

About the University of Florida 

 The University of Florida, the flagship university of the nation’s third-most-populous state, is a top public research institution with an enterprise budget of more than $10 billion. UF is the third largest U.S. public university by student population and has more academic programs on one campus than nearly every other university in the country. The university’s 16 academic colleges offer degrees in fields including engineering, law, medicine, nursing, veterinary medicine, journalism, and business. UF is one of only two public universities in Florida that belong to the Association of American Universities, comprised of the top 64 research universities in the U.S., and has more than 150 mission-focused units statewide and a presence in every one of Florida’s 67 counties. 

Media Contact
Follett Higher Education: media@follett.com

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SOURCE Follett Higher Education Group LLC