‘Virtual tour’ of ‘Gathering’ online Print
Written by Eric Tiansay   
Thursday, 22 January 2009 05:54 PM America/New_York
Christian retailers unable to attend the first major trade show of the year are being given an opportunity to make sure that they don’t miss out on some of the benefits of being there.
Video presentations from almost 90 exhibitors at The Gathering 2009 are being offered online by event organizers Christian Retailing. The informal short reports filmed live at the event feature key new products for the coming year and details of specials offered at the Jan. 7-9 show, with some participants extending their specials.
The Web-based Virtual Trade Show Tour is just one way Christian Retailing is using the Internet in new ways to serve retailers and suppliers, said publisher and Gathering organizer Dave Condiff. The “tour” launches on the Christian Retailing Web site this week.
“We wanted to help some of those who wanted to attend The Gathering but were just unable to do so, for one reason or another,” Condiff said. “In just a few minutes, retailers will be able to get a feel for some of what they may have missed at the event, and link directly to suppliers’ Web sites to find out more.

“We believe that this will be a real help for stores as they plan and prepare for the coming year.”

In addition to the Virtual Trade Show Tour, Christian Retailing magazine is enhancing its online presence with more content, including blogs, breaking news and product release details.

Around 200 representatives of church-based and other Christian retail stores attended The Gathering at The Ramada Orlando Celebration Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Fla. To take the Virtual Trade Show Tour, go to www.thechurchbookstore.com/thegathering/.