Christian Trade Association International (CTAI) is to open up its winter event for overseas buyers to North American retailers, Jan. 10-12, 2010, in Atlanta.

The move follows CBA's decision not to repeat its January Industry Conference and is the latest change in the industry's evolving trade show calendar.

CTAI President Jim Powell said that he expected additional exhibitors to take part in Marketsquare International-to be held at the Atlanta Airport Marriott-in the light of the anticipated domestic attendance.

"Because there's no other competing show, we feel like this is a prime opportunity to grow the event for the sake of our exhibitors by inviting American buyers as well," said Powell, predicting drive-in attendance from stores within a 500-mile radius of the venue.

In addition to opening up to U.S.-based retailers, the CTAI event will feature a special remainders focus. "We have learned that international buyers are very interested in buying remainders, as, of course, everyone is these days," said Powell. "We will have a special section on the floor for remainders."

CBA President Bill Anderson said that the decision not to repeat the organization's Industry Conference had been made based on feedback from retailers and suppliers urging "one show where everyone meets and major industry business is accomplished"--the annual International Christian Retail Show--and the need to "be sensitive to the difficult economy."

Although it will have no January event, CBA is to partner with the Atlanta Gift Mart to hold a meeting for Christian buyers attending the Jan. 8-12 gift industry show, Anderson said.

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