Retailers unable to attend this year's International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) are being given the opportunity to take advantage of some of the specials presented during the event, as part of a major new industry initiative launched by Christian Retailing magazine. Thirty Denver exhibitors are taking part in the first Virtual Christian Retailing Show, which begins Monday, July 20. Through Aug. 31, they will be presenting products and extending some special offers to buyers online through Christian Retailing's new Internet-based service.

In addition to supplier presentations and information, the six-week virtual show will feature Webinar training for stores, author and artist release parties and a new social networking forum through which retailers and suppliers can connect for fellowship, encouragement and business.

"It's no secret that the place of trade shows in our industry has been changing in recent years," said Christian Retailing publisher Dave Condiff. "Suppliers and retailers alike are having to consider the cost of attending such events, but they still have a need to connect-and we want to help provide that opportunity."

The Virtual Christian Retailing Show has been developed following a pilot program after The Gathering 2009, sponsored by the magazine in January. Eighty vendors recorded 60-second booth presentations at the Jan. 7-9 event, which were then posted online and viewed more than 5,200 times by more than 750 different visiting stores.

"The results confirmed for us that this was a great method for helping bring suppliers and stores together," Condiff said. "We believe that this is an innovative and cost-effective way forward for everyone."

Further Virtual Shows will follow, spotlighting seasonal and other special-focus selling opportunities. Stores will be able to access the information 24/7 at the Christian Retailing Web site, www.christianretailing.com.

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