THE COMMISSION SYSTEM IS A FINNISH SPECIALITY

In the framework of an agreement made between the bookstore and the Finnish Book Publishers' Association (the SKY), the publisher sends one copy of all new general book titles and new editions on commission to the bookstore. In practise the commission system is open for all Finnish publishers, if there has been on agreement between bookstore and the SKY. The commission system has been in use in Finland since 1948.

According to the agreement the bookstore keeps in stock at least one copy of every commission title. Every title is in commission for 1-2 years where after the bookstore either returns or buys the copy.

There are three commission classes depending on the annual sales of the bookstores.

In a bookstore that has made the commission agreement, the range of book titles is almost tenfold compared with that of a bookstore without the commission stock. The commission makes it possible for small bookstores to maintain a wider selection of books in the store.

Textbooks are not delivered on commission. Bookstores have nevertheless limited return rights of textbooks.