Parable hosted its first standalone franchise conference May 14-15 in Nashville. Centered on the theme Re:STORE, the gathering focused on building community and strengthening stores.

Franchisees have traditionally met the weekend prior to the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) during the summer. "Hosting a separate conference allows for a longer meeting and increased store owner interaction," Parable CEO Steve Potratz said. "Parable will continue to host annual all-store meetings at ICRS for both members and franchisees".

The conference included roundtable discussions, artist/author appearances, a screening of the forthcoming film Fireproof, a keynote address from pastor and author Jim Cymbala, and a "State of the Industry" panel discussion, featuring ECPA President and CEO Mark Kuyper, CBA President Bill Anderson and Gospel Music Association President John Styll.

"Hearing what has worked in other stores helps us focus our own efforts," said Lorraine Valk of Banner Books Parable Christian Store in St. Joseph, Mich. "We came away with new ideas for merchandising our DVD department and refreshing our gifts, and are already moving ahead to implement changes."

Rod Huff, Parable's vice president of franchising, added: "We believe franchising is the future for independent Christian retailers, and the success of this year's conference confirmed the direction we are headed."