Since opening his store in its current location , two of Kevin ’ s biggest challenges have been finding capable employees and maintaining inventory .
Kevin says that six years ago , they started with a decentsized staff ; however , for the past couple of years , they ’ ve only had one or two employees besides him and his wife . Currently they have one part-time employee and one Saturday-only employee . “ By God ’ s grace , we make it week after week ,” he admits . Even when one of his employees needs time off , Kevin has been able to maintain store operations by occasionally working longer hours , yet without interfering with his family ’ s needs . praying with his customers , discussing Bible topics with pastors and watching people reconnect in his store . And it always puts a smile on his face when a customer walks in humming the end of a song that he just heard because they are listening to the same radio station .
As a former Bible teacher and minister , I most enjoy helping people find books that will better their understanding of the Bible
Drawing from Kevin ’ s background in church and Christian school ministry , his store has a significant Sunday School curriculum and church supplies business . But FIT Books also has a unique product offering that includes a sizeable selection of French and Creole Bibles , theology books and commentaries due to the area ’ s cultural diversity and Kevin ’ s ministry experience with the Haitian community . The store carries Spanish and Portuguese Bibles as well .
Like other retailers in the industry , Kevin has also been dealing with the recent increase in the cost of goods , including shipping , and the supply chain issues , specifically with church supplies . “ The extent of our inventory is obvious as soon as you walk in the door ,” Kevin says . And with fewer employees , maintaining inventory is a battle they are constantly working to overcome .
Despite these challenges , Kevin has boosted sales by participating in a few school book fairs and conventions . But one of the most effective returns in terms of consistency has been hosting local authors for book signing events in his store .
While the store itself has changed over the years , FIT Books ’ mission remains the same : to equip the church and engage the community .
“ I hope our customers have a great experience and view FIT Books as a place where they can go for all their Christian needs and to learn about the Bible in the process ,” Kevin says . CRA
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