Cut-price New Testaments and a collector's edition of the four gospels retailing for $350 are among a wide range of Bible releases set to make 2011 an important year for the category.

Publishers anticipate heightened interest in the Scriptures as the King James Version marks its 400th anniversary, while there is also much interest in the forthcoming update of the best-selling contemporary translation the New International Version (NIV).

Meanwhile, some are hoping that there is room for yet another presentation of God's Word, with launches planned for the Common English Bible (CEB) and The Voice translations and new editions, as well as repackaging of some of the most popular previous printings.

The plans are detailed in a look-ahead calendar in the January edition of Christian Retailing that lists the major Bible-related releases and events for the year.

The CEB New Testament will be available in January for $2 retail as part of a church outreach campaign, while Crossway's The Four Holy Gospels marks the KJV 400 by twinning the English Standard Version text with original paintings, illuminated initial letters and other design features in a genuine-leather edition retailing for $349.99.

Retailers are looking ahead expectantly. Bibles have been "a strong emphasis" at Berean Christian Stores in the past year and will continue to be so in 2011, said Director of Operations David Jordan. "We are planning multiple Bible sale events throughout the year that touch on all translations."

Mardel Christian & Education is also looking forward to the new NIV, said Senior Buyer Dylan Hillhouse, while Parable stores will be "heavily promoting" Bibles during Easter and planning "strong campaigns" for the NIV and CEB, said Melanie Strouss, the group's marketing and merchandising strategist.

Read the complete report in the January issue of Christian Retailing.

• Prev
• Next