The Bookseller.com

7th September 2008

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Thomas Nelson quits BEA

16.04.08 Philip Jones

Giant US Christian publisher Thomas Nelson has pulled out of Book Expo America (BEA) 2008 citing economic pressures.

In a statement, president and c.e.o. Michael Hyatt said: "We have been discussing this move for some time. But the current economic downturn is forcing us to re-evaluate the expenditure of every marketing dollar. We are committed to doing our best to support our products and distributors with marketing expenditures that result in greater sales. And we have determined that, for Thomas Nelson, these trade shows provide very little return on a very significant investment." Thomas Nelson has also pulled out of the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) 2008.

Hyatt added: "Historically, trade shows have played an important role in publishing and bookselling. I have attended scores of them and have very fond memories of connecting with customers, authors, and the media. But the market has changed. Dramatically. We simply can no longer justify the enormous costs associated with these trade shows."

Instead, Thomas Nelson has set up its own show, 'Open House', held last weekend, attended by the publisher's top 100 Christian retail accounts. "Having inaugurated our own event, it's time for us to leave the past behind and step into the future."

Michael Hyatt's blog

International US Philip Jones Thomas Nelson BEA Michael Hyatt Publishers Weekly