P. Graham Dunn has announced a new pricing structure for independent stores.

Rolled out at the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market in Atlanta, Jan. 6-13, the initiative is "our economic stimulus plan," said Peter Dunn, company president.

Some gift suppliers might be concerned about the economy's effect on business, but Keith Schwartz was upbeat at the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market in Atlanta, Jan. 6-13--with a new business, new lines and a partnership in a new venture aiming to create new opportunities for Christian-market suppliers.

Schwartz reported 30%-plus growth in 2009 for his 6-year-old Divinity Boutique, which starts the new year being absorbed into Nicole Bradyden Gifts & Divinity Boutique. He continues as president and said that the company will add new categories in addition to its popular inspirational gift products and look for further acquisitions.

Swanson Christian Products is now offering selected core product lines to its wholesale accounts at an everyday discount of 60% off suggested retail prices. Effective Jan. 2, hundreds of items are available at this new discount, including canvas Bible covers, ties, hats and caps, and auto emblems.

As for the reason why the company is offering this discount, John McKinney Sr., director of operations, said: "It's simple. It's just time to set a new standard."

Enesco recently announced plans to enter into a licensing relationship with Big Idea to develop and distribute new products featuring VeggieTales characters. The products will be developed in multiple categories and channels utilizing Enesco brands, including its Gund plush division and its Gregg Gift division.

"We are excited to reach consumers through Enesco's broad mix of retail channel, and to share the VeggieTales messages through new products that have proven appeal to children and families," said Leslie Ferrell, general manager of Big Idea.

Genesis Marketing Group, a division of GMG Holdings, is providing field sales representation for Warner Press, the gift company announced. Nine representatives will serve Christian retail accounts for Warner Press throughout the country.

Card and gift company DaySpring has promoted four executives to new roles within the company.

"In order to grow DaySpring's position as an industry leader and innovator, it is essential for our executive team to bring excitement, creativity and strong strategic leadership to our sales channels and product development," said James Barnett, company president. "Bill Couey, Gary Harris, Stephen Bos and David Jones have exhibited those skills for DaySpring."

A strong gift market is providing a second chance for one retail store to start over with a new model, leaving behind other categories in order to focus solely on gifts.

As the Christopher Matthew's bookstore in Bel Air, Md., continues the "Going Out of Business" sale that began last month, Bryan Brock, store manager, has announced plans for a new, smaller store.

With shaped, colored rubber bands quickly gaining popularity in the general market, Swanson Christian Products has created six faith-based editions called Faith Bands. Releasing in February, Faith Bands come in these packages: Days of Creation, Faith Symbols, Noah's Animals, Adam and Eve,  Plan of Salvation and Nativity.

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