The Great Lakes Association of College Stores (GLACS) emerged as a significant milestone in the evolution of regional associations' collaboration. Rooted in the merger of the Ohio Association of College Stores (OACS) and the Illinois Association of College Stores (IACS), the new organization was carefully structured in Spring 2024 with the guidance of NACS attorneys, new bylaws, and formal documentation filed with the State of Ohio.

Effective July 1, 2024, the merger officially created GLACS, followed by a call for board nominations and elections that brought together leaders from both states. ​The inaugural conference was held October 28-30, 2024 at Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron, Ohio. It marked the swearing-in of the first board members and celebrated the association's expanded reach. In a further historic step, the Michigan Association of College Stores (MACS) dissolved in early October 2024 and formally joined GLACS at the inaugural event, uniting three state associations under one regional banner. Current store members include those from Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana.

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GLACS now represents a broad network of campus stores, vendors, and professionals across the Great Lakes region, offering a platform for collaboration, leadership and innovation in the collegiate retail marketplace. Its creation reflects years of dedication from volunteers and members, and stands as an incredible achievement in strengthening the collective voice of higher education retail.