“ The most beneficial aspect of the show was to be with like-minded believers and to know I’ m not alone. I needed this trip— needed the encouragement and reminder I’ m in ministry.”
This year’ s show had a clear and purposeful theme: Equip. But what unfolded over the course of the event proved that equipping isn’ t just about products, displays or even business strategies— it’ s about people, support and community.
This year’ s theme,“ Equip,” was not just a word— it was something lived out in tangible ways throughout the event. One of the clearest expressions of this theme came through the expanded“ changes in retail” breakout sessions held on Sunday. These sessions were intentionally designed to meet attendees where they were, offering practical tools and fresh insights for today’ s evolving retail landscape. New topics included selling Spanishlanguage products, opening a new store, navigating the challenges of downsizing, elevating customer service and understanding the growing role of AI in retail. Each seminar reflected a commitment to equip retailers to not simply survive but also adapt and thrive in a changing environment.
From the moment attendees arrived, there was a shared understanding: this was more than a tradeshow. It was a space to reconnect, refocus and remember why this community exists in the first place. That spirit was amplified by an exceptional lineup of speakers. Voices like Laura Story, John Bevere, Christine D’ Clario, Mark Moore and Sally Lloyd-Jones brought messages that resonated far beyond the stage. Each session offered something unique— whether it was inspiration, conviction or practical wisdom— together they equipped attendees with a needed measure of encouragement that everyone carried with them long after the sessions ended.
“ The most beneficial aspect of the show was to be with like-minded believers and to know I’ m not alone. I needed this trip— needed the encouragement and reminder I’ m in ministry.”
One Way Book Store Selma, AL
22 CRA today / www. christianretailassociation. org