newsstand returns

Unsold copies remaining from the newsstand draw, usually reported back to the wholesaler or distributor for refund to the newsstand dealer; also referred to as n/s returns. Returns are reported either by a return of the front cover of each unsold copy or simply with a document stating the number of copies sold and remaining (see return affidavit). Returns range from an average of 30% to 60% but vary widely depending upon the publication, its competition, and its suitability to the customers patronizing each newsstand outlet. For example, Good Housekeeping will sell better in a suburban supermarket than in a camera store, whereas American Photographer will sell better in a camera store than in a supermarket. Also, when U.S. News & World Report was introduced in China, copies sold out as quickly as the publisher could print them, because competition was limited and interest was high. See also nonreturnable.