Even in the midst of an economic downturn, Americans plan to show their patriotism July 4, according to the National Retail Federation's (NRF) 2009 Independence Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch.

More people aim to celebrate the holiday this year than last year. With the 4th falling on a Saturday, many Americans are planning a celebration: 62.6%-or 144 million people-will host or attend a cookout, barbecue or picnic, 5 million more than in 2008.

"Americans are ready to kick-start summer and celebrate Independence Day," said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. "Retailers will be stocked with supplies for every celebration, from large family cookouts to trips to the beach."

Fourteen percent of consumers plan to purchase patriotic merchandise this month.

The June survey, polling more than 8,600 consumers, also found that more people will attend their local fireworks or community celebration. Other popular celebrations include attending a parade (11.5%) or traveling/taking a vacation (11.4%).

Available in sizes S-XXL, the tee is made of 100% pre-shrunk cotton. Retailers pay $6.50 (S-XL) and $8.50 (XXL) wholesale for each shirt, which retail for $12.99 (S-XL) and $14.99 (XXL).

To order, contact Colorado-based Know Him at 888-256-6944. To apply for a wholesale account, visit www.knowhim.com/commerce/wholesale-application.asp.

The design is now available on a 50-by-60-inch throw retailing for $45; a 26-by-36-inch wall hanging with a wooden rod for hanging for $40; a 17-by-17-inch tote bag for $25; and a 17-by-17-inch pillow for $22.

A family-owned business founded in 1932, Manual Woodworkers & Weavers is based in the mountains of Western North Carolina. For more information on the company's products, go to www.manualww.com. To order, call 800-542-3139.

How significant is the trend toward personalization in the gift market? "Right now the trend toward personalization is absolutely huge. Everyone expects to find something special for every occasion and with personalization that is possible. When you add in our program of personalization in store you are satisfying today's customer's two biggest needs, something unique and instant satisfaction. It is a win-win for everyone."

What kind of personalized products are available at Christian retail? "Products available in the Christian market for personalization include pens, frames, clocks, Bibles, Bible covers, mugs and far too many other items to list."

How can Christian retailers attract buyers interested in these types of products? "As in any case, word-of-mouth advertising is by far the best. Once word gets out that a store is doing personalizing, it is not long before many people know it and will come looking for it. To a store that is just starting with personalization, I sometimes recommend running a sale that features the new personalized product discounted with the purchase of existing product in the store. It really boils down to each store owner knowing their customers and what they react to for advertising."

How did P. Graham Dunn get into personalization? "We got into personalizing product as an experiment. We were using lasers in our production, and we had a machine that we were replacing with a newer, faster model. It was suggested that the older machine be moved into our retail store to see if there was a demand, and if we would have the ability for on-the-spot personalized product. Needless to say, seven years later, we are very happy with the trial."

What is one of P. Graham Dunn's most popular products that is or can be personalized? "Our most popular product has been our rosewood pens. No matter what part of the country we have placed the machines, we see these pens re-ordered the most. They are a great pen, write well and look fantastic when lasered."

1. Pledge of Allegiance T-shirt (Kerusso) $5.99 S-XL, $7.99 XXL
2. 2009 VBS Crocodile Dock child T-shirt (Group Publishing) $5.99 S-XL
3. 2009 VBS Crocodile Dock staff T-shirt (Group Publishing) $9.99 S-XL, $11.99 XXL
4. Cross keychain (Dicksons) 29 cents
5. 2009 VBS Crocodile Dock iron-on transfer (Group Publishing) $13.99
6. Smallest Bible keychain (G.T. Luscombe Co.) $1.99
tie 7. 2009 VBS Crocodile Dock straw hat (Group Publishing) $2.94
tie 7. Lifeguard T-shirt (Kerusso) $17.99 S-XL
9. Princess 3 T-shirt (Kerusso) $17.99 S-XL
10. Stick With Jesus T-shirt (Kerusso) $17.99 S-XL

List based on sales data for May 1-31, 2009, provided by Christian Books & More Gold and used with permission.

See our Top 100 Gifts list in the June 8 issue of the Inspirational Gift Trends magazine.

July 8-15
The Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market
AmericasMart Atlanta
Atlanta, Ga.
404-220-3000
www.americasmart.com

July 12-15
International Christian Retail Show
Colorado Convention Center
Denver, Colo.
800-252-1950
www.christianretailshow.com

July 19-22
Philadelphia Gift Show
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, Pa.
678-285-EXPO (3976)
www.urban-expo.com

July 25-28
Orlando Gift Show
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Fla.
678-285-EXPO (3976)
www.urban-expo.com

We asked: Should there be scripture on every gift sold at Christian retail?

"I believe ‘God' and His Word has been taken out of too many things; we should not take Him out of spiritual gifts also. I do not think we should have to put a scripture on everything that is sold, but at least a symbol or spiritual saying. We need to show the world we support our beliefs, and we need to teach our younger generation to have the same values that we have. If we keep lowering our standards as Christians, then we are just lowering the bar for our future generation, once again."

Shawn Myers
Publicist
Bridge-Logos Foundation

It's been established that pastors are key influencers among church-goers when it comes to purchasing books. Is there a certain type of leader who influences the purchase of gifts among Christian consumers? If not, how can retailers encourage the purchase of inspirational gifts?

What do you think? Please share your thoughts with our readers at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

"The Lord is exalted, indeed, he lives in heaven; he fills Zion with justice and fairness. He is your constant source of stability; he abundantly provides safety and great wisdom; he gives all this to those who fear him."

(Is. 33:5-6, NET)