Suppliers reported good business and an encouraging spirit at The Gathering 2010.

The event was "very good" for Thomas Nelson, said Inside Sales Consultant for Christian Retail Sales Scott Etheridge, who told Christian Retailing that sales had been strong and consistent. There had been a good response to its new Jack Countryman gift-book spinner rack to be available from the fall, he said.

"There has been a lot of interest," Etheridge said. "A lot of stores do well with gift books, but don't really have a home for them all in one spot. We have found if you can do that and call them out, your sales increase."

Bob Spooner, marketing director for Robert Spooner Galerie, said that there had been a good response to the lower price points the company has introduced with new lines that aimed to continue its reputation for high-end and quality wall art, while dropping prices to offer more value.

Stores seemed to be coming out of the worst effects of the recent recession, he said. "They are still trying to keep inventories low, but they are starting to buy again. We have had several people say, 'We are empty, we need product soon.' "

STL Distribution North America President Glenn Bailey said that the company had signed up a handful of new accounts and that "all things considered, it has been definitely worthwhile being here."

He added: "My sense is we are all just waiting for the next The Shack or The Love Dare or Crazy Love. We are just one book away from feeling pretty good."

At Spring Arbor, Southeast Regional Account Manager Barbara Rego said she had connected with current customers and some prospective new accounts. "I think people are very positive, but that is the nature of a Christian, to be up."

First-time Christian trade event exhibitor Darryl Shellhamer--whose SDS Designs Associates has recently added a faith-based line to its popular car magnet collections--said that though the show was small compared to some he had been to, "I got more accomplished here than at some of the mega shows I have attended."

He added: "I have found an industry that is different from any I have ever been involved in."

For new publisher Inspired Faith, debuting at The Gathering with interactive gift books containing inspirational movie DVDs, CBA Channel Director Chris Robinette reported a good response and appreciation that the new line was available only to specialty retailers.

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