The A Group will construct branding platforms for all types of content creators, with an initial focus on the publishing sector, company officials said.

The latest from best-selling Quiet Strength (Tyndale House Publishers) author Tony Dungy, The Mentor Leader, released Aug. 3, following the publisher's launch last month of Coming Back Stronger, the memoir of 2010 Super Bowl-winning quarterback Drew Brees.

The purchase of Northwestern locations in Coon Rapids, Woodbury, Burnsville, Maple Grove and Edina was completed Aug. 2. All the stores except the Burnsville location reopened as LifeWay Christian Stores yesterday, company officials said. The Burnsville store will reopen this Saturday, Aug. 7.

The three men who joined forces to publish The Shack when no one else wanted to--going on to see the novel sell more than 12 million copies in three years--are now in a legal fight about the book's profits.

The service will result from a three-way initiative involving the Elizabethton, Tenn.-based distributor, printer Dickinson Press and technology firm Snowfall Press.

Peterson's "shared belief in honoring God and inspiring all people blended with his past publishing experience makes him a perfect addition to our team," said Gary Davidson, senior vice president and publisher for Nelson's Bible, Reference and Curriculum Group.

A 19-year publishing veteran, Peterson previously worked in acquisition of trade books, project management and internal communications for the General Board of Discipleship. During his time at the United Methodist Publishing House, he was involved in manuscript development, rights and permissions, and development of electronic resources. He has also written Bible studies, Sunday school curriculum, Christian liturgy and commentary.

"I have a thirst for continual learning and for assisting others in that process," Peterson said. "It's an honor to be joining a team dedicated to helping people grow in Christlikeness by growing in their knowledge in and understanding of the Bible."

Running through Labor Day, Sept. 6, the show is hosted by Christian Retailing magazine, aiming to help stores set themselves for the fall and Christmas seasons with product news, order specials and training. It is the magazine's fourth virtual trade event since debuting the innovative program following last year's ICRS.