We've been manufacturing BLU School Supplies brand school supplies and providing them in bulk for a few decades now. Our partners enjoy significant savings in both money and time.
Purchasing school supplies in bulk can lead to significant savings—often ranging from 20% to over 50% compared to buying the same items individually at retail prices. The exact savings depend on the type of items, quantity, and source of purchase (i.e. from a retailer vs direct from the manufacturer).
Typical Savings by Buying in Bulk
Item | Retail Price | Bulk Price (Per Unit) | Savings % |
---|---|---|---|
Spiral Notebook CR 70ct | $2.00 | $1.09 each | 40–55% |
Box of 24 Premium Crayons | $2.00 | $.84 each | 50% |
Glue Stick | $0.75 | $.38 each | 40–60% |
#2 Pencil (12pk) | $3.00 | $.84 each | 60–80% |
Ruler | $1.25 | $.23 each | 40–60% |
49-Item PreK-Kindergarten Supply Kit (Pre-assembled) | $50–$75 retail value | $10.95 each | 50–65% |
Why Bulk is Cheaper:
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Economies of scale: Suppliers can offer lower prices when items are ordered in large quantities.
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Less packaging & handling: Bulk orders are packed more efficiently.
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Direct from manufacturer: Schools and nonprofits often buy directly from suppliers, skipping retail markups.
Real-World Example:
Let’s say a 62-item deluxe 1st-5th grade school supply kit costs $14.50 in bulk. If purchased individually at retail, the same items might total $25–$40. Multiply that across 500 students, and the organization could save $5,250–$12,750.
Bonus: Time & Effort Savings
In addition to money, buying in bulk also saves:
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Time (fewer shopping trips)
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Effort (less individual packaging)
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Shipping costs (larger shipments are more cost-efficient per unit)
- Extra Bonus: At Blu School Supplies, all our school supply kits and backpacks ship for free to the lower 48 United States!