Christian Trade Association International (CTAI) has announced details of a new winter show to fill the hole left in the industry calendar by CBA's cancellation of Advance 2008.

Marketsquare International: A World of Opportunity will be held in Toronto, Jan. 24-26. The “table top” display event is being organized to serve the growing number of international buyers who want to be able to meet collectively with U.S.-based suppliers early in the year.

“We want to provide buyers worldwide with an opportunity to meet American and other suppliers in a setting conducive to business,” said CTAI President Jim Powell. “Every international buyer and supplier I've spoken with is in favor of Marketsquare International.”

CTAI began working on plans for the new event after learning of CBA's cancellation of Advance in July. CBA is planning a less expensive replacement event without an exhibit floor that will focus on relationship-building and discussion of industry issues. Details have yet to be announced.

Early support for Marketsquare International came from Remi Morgan, CEO of Laterna Venture, a Nigerian distributor of English products, who said that January buying was “invaluable for my ministry.” Svein Andersen, CEO of Hermon Forlag in Norway, said it was a “great time of year” for an event. U.S. suppliers who have committed to participating include Zondervan and Dicksons.

To be held at the Delta Meadowvale Resort and Convention Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, Marketsquare International will include workshops for publishers and retailers, and “opportunities for fellowship and networking,” CTAI said.

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