Christian retail industry leaders have been debating the future shape of the industry, with some seeing a marked geographical divide of store presence.

Among those who spoke on the subject to Christian Retailing recently, Munce Group founder and President Bob Munce said he anticipated a separation into "big stores and small-town stores" with not much in the middle, where the larger independents have traditionally been.

He said he believed there would be a growing number of large stores-comprised of chains or regional groups-in cities, while small independents will be found mostly in the hinterland.

"Out in small town U.S.A, there are Christian bookstores that are doing well because they may only have one big-box store as a competitor," Munce said. "Many of these stores tend to be doing well in hard times. ..."

Mardel Christian & Educational Supply stores President Jason Green was among those with another view, forecasting "still strong demand for Christian retailers in various markets. Large independents still have opportunities, just like other size stores, both independent and chain."

Jim Whitaker, co-owner of New Life Christian Stores in Lynchburg, Va.; Parable Franchise Sales Manager Phil Darr; and David Almack, U.S. director of the nonprofit organization Christian Literature Crusade Ministries International, were among those who also addressed the issue.

Read the full report in the July 7 issue of Christian Retailing International.

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