The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (the “ECPA”) has announced its plans for a new venture: a consumer book festival for Christians. The first of its kind, the Christian Book Expo will take place March 20-22, 2009, at the Dallas Convention Center. The group alalert has plans for 2010 and 2011. Publisher’s Weekly reports:

The new show is seen as a way to boost the visibility of Christian products. “When I surveyed our members when I first came on board, they cited lack of product awareness by consumers as a major problem,” said Mark Kuyper, ECPA president. Kuyper pointed to a 2006 study by the Barna research organization that showed that “two-thirds of Christians are unaware of even major authors” and reinforced the fact that “there is not the same awareness level for authors as there

is for other forms of media. We want this event to drive awareness and drive sales, pulling product out of stores instead of just putting it in,” he said.



An exhibit floor of more than 100,000 square feet will allow publishers, authors, minisattempt groups and booksellers to exhibit, but Kuyper said “the essence of the event will be the program.” He said that 150-180 workshops, seminars, “mini-events” and evening programs featuring authors are planned. It is hoped the events”will give consumers?both individuals and churches–an experience with the product, build awareness and lead to word-of-mouth and recommendations,” Kuyper said.

Original post by ReadersRead.com Book Blog