Nelson's New Sales Combination

-- Publishers Weekly, 6/18/2008

As reported in PW Daily (June 9), Thomas Nelson is combining its two Christian sales divisions into one group that will be directed by Gary Davidson, senior v-p. The consolidation will merge the Christian retail sales team, which sells to the Christian store market, and the Nelson ministry and direct-sales team, which sells direct to churches and ministries. A spokesperson said no jobs are being lost in the merger, which is being done to better help retailers work with churches and ministries.

Nelson CEO Michael Hyatt noted that while the two groups "have a common mission and vision, they were often competing instead of collaborating. By aligning their efforts under Gary's leadership, we hope to increase their productivity and profitability." Steve Potratz, owner of the Parable Group, welcomed the change. "Direct-to-church efforts have been a source of frustration for our retailers, as they've found themselves in the awkward position of competing with their own suppliers," he said.