CBA's January NEXT event will be merged into an expanded training and retailer-interaction program as part of the International Christian Retail Show beginning in 2014, ending a two-year run at AmericasMart in Atlanta.

The two-day NEXT featured training workshops on topics such as inventory management and navigating AmericasMart for The Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market, which retailers attended following the CBA event.

CBA President Curtis Riskey said while NEXT received "great reviews" from retailers, attendance did not meet expectations. Adding days to buy products at AmericasMart limited attendance primarily to Christian store owners, who had to take more days out of their stores to participate. Additionally, not enough Christian buyers attended AmericasMart, limiting attendance growth at NEXT.

Continuing with primary sponsor Ingram Content Group/Spring Arbor, the new expanded NEXT will "retain peer-to-peer elements, but also may commission research and leading retail experts and consultants for focused, relevant training in critical areas," CBA officials said.

"The need for education and training is great because of the rapidly changing retail climate," Riskey said. "Merging the well-received NEXT training to where the industry meets will maximize training impact and provide easier access for more people. Programming for the new initiative will focus on meeting new consumer expectations in effective and innovative ways."

Shawn Everson, chief commercial officer for Ingram/Spring Arbor, added: "The need for high-level training resonates with all Christian product providers, and it's needed now more than ever. We are happy to be a primary sponsor for industry training and support that builds a vibrant Christian-store network."

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