Industry Veteran joins Parable® Franchising
Steve Adams Named as Franchise Operations Director
San Luis Obispo, CA — Parable announces the appointment of well-known industry veteran Steve Adams as Franchise Operations Director in charge of development and implementation of the new franchise program.
Adams brings the experience of over two decades in Christian retail and seven years as a franchisee to the new position. In 1981, Adams acquired two Evangel stores in the Seattle market, and grew them into a successful four-store operation. He also owned a medical billing franchise in the early 70s.
In his new role as Franchise Operations Director, Adams will serve as the primary connection between the Parable store franchisees and the Parable office. Joining many other experienced retailers already present on the Parable staff, Adams will coordinate a program to work with both conversion franchisees and new franchise owners to implement best practices for systems and procedures to ensure the success of each store. From financial and budgeting processes to merchandising techniques and the delivery of the Parable brand to consumers, Adams will strive to bring consistency and facilitate successful execution of Christian retail. In considering the task before him, Adams observed, "We don't lack for mission or message; however, it is the method in our industry that is on the operating table. I believe the Parable franchise offers hope for existing stores and a way for new owners to succeed. I am excited to start this new venture where I will be able to use the skills God has given me to make a real difference in an industry I love so much."
"Steve's extensive business background, his warm and engaging personality and his passion for independent Christian retail will allow him to coach each franchise store owner and their staff to success," says Kay Cementina, vice president of retail and franchise development for Parable. "As a retailer for 24 years, Steve knows how to run multiple stores, and his most recent experience with Spring Arbor took him into the back rooms of over 300 Christian retail stores of all sizes during the past two years. He knows firsthand the challenges facing the CBA industry and understands how the power of a national brand plus proven solutions for better operational efficiency will help keep the independent bookseller viable in the changing world of retail."
Adams' former leadership positions include Chairman of the Board for CBA and membership on the CBA Board of Directors from 1988 to 1998. With his broad business and leadership background, Steve is a frequent speaker and consultant for industry seminars, workshops and conventions.
Adams and his wife Lana will be relocating to San Luis Obispo, which will happily bring them closer to their children and grandchildren who reside in Los Angeles and Phoenix.
Steve Adams will officially assume his new position with Parable on February 1.
The Parable family of companies includes: The Parable Group, providing catalogs and comprehensive marketing services to independent, locally-branded Parable Member Affiliates nationwide; Parable Franchise, offering a nationally-branded turnkey business plan for opening and operating new Christian retail stores; and Parable Interactive, serving as a ministry partner hosting hundreds of web sites. Parable, America's Leading Christian Retailers® is based in San Luis Obispo, CA.
