Christian Booksellers Convention (CBC)--the established Christian product trade show in the U.K.--has been combined with the Christian Resources Exhibitions (CRE).

Scheduled for May 12-15 at Sandown Park in Esher, Surrey, the event will feature many components of CBC, including retailer training, morning devotions, authors and artists evening, and an awards banquet.

CRE has featured more than 370 exhibitors and about 12,000 visitors. Both CBC and CRE will be managed by CRE's parent organization, U.K.'s British and Foreign Bible Society.

According to Christian Trade Association International (CTAI), the move to combine trade and public events follows a successful trend already operating in other places, including Hong Kong, Latin America and Europe. CBC has represented the U.K. as a member of CTAI since 2007.

"It's exciting to reach out to key audiences in new ways by working together with other forces in the marketplace," CTAI President Jim Powell said. "Some might think an association should protect the consumer market for booksellers alone, but successful models in several countries suggest both sides of the equation can be accommodated."

James Catford, Bible Society CEO and former publishing director at Hodder Headline and HarperCollins, added: "This move has been waiting to happen and represents the best possible opportunity for CBC to flourish and grow in the future. ... Our experienced team will do everything we can to support the Christian trade with the support and encouragement of both retailers and suppliers."

CBC 2009's theme is "Breaking the Mold: Embracing the Challenges of Change." Entry to both the exhibit floor and the workshops is free. Click here for more information.

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