UC Davis Stores — Local services in Davis

UC Davis Stores are a complete rip-off and honestly a waste of time. Prices are ridiculously inflated, and the quality of service doesn’t come close to justifying it. The staff seem to just go through the motions — no real help, no real care, just pushing overpriced junk at students who don’t have many options.

Trying to get help or ask a simple question feels like talking to a wall. People there either don’t understand or don’t want to, and it’s clear critical thinking isn’t part of the training. You explain something multiple times and it still flies right over their heads. It’s like the whole place runs on autopilot groupthink — just follow the script, no actual thought required.

Unless you like wasting money and patience, you’re better off ordering online or going literally anywhere else. UC Davis Stores just add to the frustration of...

I am a prospective Aggie and had to, simply had to break down and buy a few UC Davis t-shirts because everyone on campus, students and staff alike, were all wearing UC Davis gear, sweatshirts, t-shirts, jackets, sweatpants, shorts, all with the UC Davis emblem. Everyone in the store is really nice and helpful, If they don't have your size they will even check upstairs to see if they have it in stock. Due to the recent Mother's day holiday they were all out of the good "UC Davis Mom" shirts but they'll restock soon and I'll be back! My Mom loves cows and the store had a whole section dedicated to the cows! There's even actual cows on campus (somewhere), the campus is huge but people are so friendly and are willing to help you find your way. I'm going to...

The UC Davis Stores seem more focused on profit than serving students. Textbooks, supplies, and even basic apparel are marked up far beyond what feels fair. It reflects a larger trend across campus: lots of branding about being a "world-class university," but the actual experience — from academics to student support — often falls short.

There’s a sense that you're constantly being upsold while receiving mediocre value in return. It's frustrating to see a school promote itself so heavily while delivering a low ROI (around $54K after 10 years for many grads) and offering limited practical outcomes for the cost.

The store’s polished surface masks the deeper issue: UC Davis is becoming more of a business than a...