Christian Retailing

Future-looking agenda set for ICRS Print Email
Written by Jeremy Burns   
Thursday, 13 February 2014 11:04 AM America/New_York

KyleIdleman1-webCBA has announced the theme for the International Christian Retail Show June 22-25 in Atlanta. Registration opened Feb. 12.

The show’s “Cause to Celebrate” theme reflects Christian stores’ unique position to succeed in new retailing and the causes industry companies support. CBA is also celebrating its 65th anniversary.

The event has a future-directed agenda, aiming to tackle big faith and business issues. Presentations will include new research on what viable retailing will look like in the future, as well as a case study of publisher-direct digital marketing that moves sales through stores.

The future of Christian stores in a time of digital shopping, marketing and content delivery will be addressed, with special programs on parallel church trends. Timely and relevant training sponsored by Spring Arbor Distributors explores how retailers can revamp strategic direction to thrive in this new environment, including the influence of Millennials.

Kyle Idleman—pastor and author of AHA (David C Cook), Gods at War and Not a Fan (both Zondervan)—will give the message at Sunday’s Worship Him services, and global evangelist Ravi Zacharias will provide insights into new evangelism around the world. The conference will also feature a special appearance by Robertson family members from the hugely popular Duck Dynasty TV series.

The Cover My Expenses program, which offers show-only specials that offset travel costs and is sponsored by industry suppliers, will return as well.

An expanded Ministry in Action program will benefit Buckhead Christian Ministry, a network of 28 Atlanta-area churches dedicated to helping people in transition and the homeless. The program offers food and support, including education, counseling and employment help.

Registration and hotel reservation information is available at ChristianRetailShow.com.