Base exchange

Base Exchange is a term used in the United States military to describe the main retail store on a military base. These stores are operated by the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), a federal agency of the Department of Defense (DoD).

Overview

The Base Exchange, often abbreviated as BX, is similar to a department store. It sells a wide variety of goods, including clothing, electronics, toys, jewelry, housewares, and more. The BX is open to all active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel and their dependents.

The primary purpose of the BX is to provide quality goods and services at uniformly low prices to military personnel and their families. The profits from BX sales are used to support Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs, which enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their families.

History

The concept of a base exchange has its roots in the sutler system used by the military in the 19th century. Sutlers were civilian merchants who were allowed to set up shop on military posts to sell goods to soldiers. The system was often rife with corruption and price gouging, leading to the establishment of the Post Exchange (PX) system in the late 19th century. The PX system was later expanded and became the modern BX system.

Operations

The BX operates on a self-sustaining basis, with all operating expenses covered by sales revenue. The BX does not receive any taxpayer funding. Prices at the BX are typically lower than those at civilian stores, as the BX is exempt from state and local sales tax.

The BX is part of the larger military exchange system, which also includes the Navy Exchange (NEX), Marine Corps Exchange (MCX), and Coast Guard Exchange (CGX).

See also

• Commissary (store)
• Military base
• Post Exchange