Borders names head merchant for non-book products

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Borders Group announced that Michael Oprins has been named VP merchandising for non-book products. Oprins, who has been with the company for more than 18 years, is responsible in this newly created position for leading buying teams in non-book categories including: music, DVD, bargain, digital, newsstand, calendars, games, trend gifts and candy.

Oprins brings more than 25 years of retail experience to the position, including several leadership posts at Borders Group that have ranged over nearly two decades from Waldenbooks district manager and divisional merchandise manager to director of merchandising within the children's and calendar businesses. In 2002, Oprins was named VP cafe operations, and two years later, was appointed VP Paperchase operations, where he developed and led the introduction of Paperchase gift and stationery shops in U.S. Borders superstores.