CLC International (UK) bought six of the 40-odd Wesley Owen stores that were put up for sale in December when parent organization IBS-STL UK decided to exit the industry. Formerly Christian Literature Crusade, CLC took over locations in Bolton, Cambridge, Coventry, Guildford, Kingston-upon-Thames and Stockport, bringing its nationwide chain to 21.

"We are thrilled to keep these six points of witness and ministry open," said CLC UK Director Phil Burnham. "If only we could have done more."

Eight other Wesley Owen stores were purchased by the Australian chain Koorong. Though some of the remaining 26 outlets have closed, there are hopes that some may be saved by local groups wanting to support a Christian bookstore in their community.

The CLC International UK takeover of the commercially run Wesley Owen stores was made possible by a change in its constitution earlier in 2009, which allowed the organization--staffed by volunteers--to employ people for unfilled positions.

"In these early days there are lots of questions going back and forth as we try to marry the two bookshop systems," Burnham told Christian Retailing. "My hope and prayer is that the result is both a stronger and a more versatile organization going forward."

Worldwide, CLC has publishing, distribution and retail operations in nearly 60 countries.