A sharper business focus and a clearer sense of mission are two good things that have come from the recent tough times for the Christian products industry, according to insiders.

They were among the lessons shared by a broad range of people--from authors and artists, agents and distributors, to suppliers and retailers--when Christian Retailing magazine asked them about what they have found to be positive in the challenges of the economy and a changing marketplace.

"I think the main up side to this downturn is that we are really relying on God to run our business," said Kelly Spencer, general manager at Beardsley's Book & Bible, in Modesto, Calif.

The other is questioning whether we need it or not. When we buy our inventory, we are making much wiser decisions-minding what God has given us to work with much more closely."

For Jason Roy, lead singer of band Building 429, artists have been "finding power in coming together with three or four other artists for festival-like events at low prices." In addition, "there is a different perspective and power present when we are having to rely on God to meet our needs."

Literary agent Chip MacGregor pointed to the surge of interest in historical fiction. "During a bad economy, statistics reveal that Americans return to reading for pleasure," he said. "Americans want to get in touch with a simpler time, and novels allow that to happen."

Read the complete report in the November issue of Christian Retailing magazine.

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