is teaming up with CBA industry consultant Jim Seybert for a new series that will spotlight key issues affecting Christian publishers and retailers. The Critical Issues Watch (CIW) will report details of a survey of Christian Retailing readers' attitudes and opinions with commentary intended to promote further debate and action.

The first study will assess what progress retailers feel have been made on the five critical issues widely accepted as facing the industry-trust, store traffic, systems, excellence and profits-since they were highlighted at CBA Advance in January. Details and commentary of the first survey will appear in the Jan. 24, 2005, issue of Christian Retailing, coinciding with CBA Advance in Nashville. Subsequent surveys will look at issues such as niche markets, use of technology and new retail initiatives.

The research and analysis will come from Seybert, an Arroyo Grande, Calif.-based independent consultant since 2001 whose non-CBA-market clients include hospitals and entertainment companies.

"Dialogue is one of the most important elements to effective change," he said. "We want to provide a forum for dialogue. If we can talk about the issues that face us we can solve them together. We might not always agree, but we will all know where we are coming from."

A member of Christian Retailing's editorial advisory board, Seybert served as vice president of business development for The Parable Group for eight years before going independent. Prior to that he worked in advertising and as a radio talk-show host.

Eight CIW special reports are planned for 2005.

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