Key Stores Return To Parable
"It was like coming home"
(November 2, 2006) — Parable is honored to welcome back three independent Christian bookstore owners that had made forays into other marketing groups.
Living Word Christian Stores' owner Chuck Broderick, of Florida, said he decided to return this summer for a few reasons. The biggest reason was so that he could opt out of promoting and carrying a product he chose not to carry in his stores in Tampa and Sarasota.
"At Parable, we have a choice," said Broderick. "We were never unhappy to begin with." Broderick said the recently established Parable Free Catalog Subscription Program factored into his decision as well.
"That brought the cost of Parable promotions closer in line with other groups," he explained. Franchise Manager Chris Brown said Parable is able do more in terms of meeting stores' needs because of the high number of member stores.
"Chuck and Joann Brodrick are trendsetters," says Parable CEO Steve Potratz. "They listen to their customers and respond with innovative and effective solutions. Most importantly, they are deeply committed to the Word and its power to change lives."
Ben Turner, owner of One Way Bookshops in Missouri, came back to Parable this spring after a four-year absence.
"I came back after prayerful consideration," said Turner, who also cited the Free Catalog Subscription Program as a reason to switch. The variety of marketing products, Training At Parable and Parable Essential Inventory also contributed to his decision.
Rodney and Allen Redmond of Sanctuary (formerly Mustard Seed) Christian Store in Columbus, Georgia also brought their store back to Parable this year.
"Rodney has a strong merchandising sense and is always finding new products and trends early," commented Potratz. "Ben Turner is a leader in event marketing and church partnership. Both have a heart for independent Christian retail and understand the impact they can have on the Kingdom through their stores."
Broderick said he recommends The Parable Group especially to new bookstore owners because of their relationship-building, caring way of doing business.
"Parable is a marketing group that holds people's hands and helps them. Other marketing groups aren't hand-holders," said Broderick. "It was like coming home."
"We're discovering many stores out there whose needs aren't being met," said Brown. "We have many ways to meet their needs."
Parable helps Christian retail ministries succeed by making business better. A hybrid combination of marketing group, franchise and retail services provider, Parable offers Christian retailers a full range of marketing, merchandising and operational services. For more information contact Gary Weyel, Parable communication and public relations specialist, or visit www.parablegroup.com. The Parable Group is based in San Luis Obispo, Calif.
