Citing the economic slowdown, Christian publishers are skipping or scaling back on their presence at the U.S. book world's biggest event next month.

Around 140 religious publishing companies are so far confirmed for Book Expo America (BEA), which will take place in New York City, May 28-31.

Steven Rosato, director of Strategic Accounts, Sales and Industry Development for BEA, told Christian Retailing that 50 religious publishers exhibited at last year's event. "It looks like it will remain flat or just slightly down," he said. Rosato added that some evangelical companies will have a smaller floor presence at BEA.

David Lewis, director of sales and marketing for Baker Publishing Group, told Christian Retailing the company was streamlining its participation at industry trade shows this year. "As a result, we will have a single booth at BEA this year," he said.

Gospel Light Vice President for Sales and Marketing Bob Bever said the Ventura, Calif.-based company was also "making some reductions in our presence at BEA this year due to the current economic climate" in the general market.

A first-time exhibitor at last year's expo, Bridge-Logos Publishers will skip BEA. "We have held back from exhibiting at BEA again because we felt the value wasn't there especially in the current economic situation," Bridge-Logos Executive Vice President of Marketing Steve Becker told Christian Retailing.

Read the full report in the May 4 issue of Christian Retailing.

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