In July 2007, Scholastic Publishing released Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at a suggested retail price of $34.99 and was rumored to be selling the book to retailers at a wholesale price of $18.99. Costco and Walmart offered the book for $18.18 and $17.87, respectively. Amazon was more aggressive offering the book at $17.99 and a $5 gift certificate and free shipping. What do you think is the strategy of these firms in offering this book as such a reduced price?