Family Christian Bookstores Are Closing for Good--Including the Torrance Branch

I had read about this news item two months ago.

I was not sure that I wanted to believe what I was reading.

But here's the extended statement on what is happening.

From USA Today:

Family Christian, which bills itself as the “world's largest retailer of Christian-themed merchandise,” announced Thursday it is closing after 85 years.

The non-profit company, employing more than 3,000 people in 240 stores in 36 states, said in a brief statement that the retailer had been facing declining sales since filing for bankruptcy protection in 2015 and had no choice but to shut down.

It was a non-profit?

There is nothing wrong with businesses, even if they are selling Christian merchandise, from turning a profit.

In fact, it's a welcome idea that demonstrates good and faith service.

“Despite improvements in product assortment and the store experience, sales continued to decline," said Chuck Bengochea, the company's president. "In addition, we were not able to get the pricing and terms we needed from our vendors to successfully compete in the market.

The big issue is the information and technology revolution overwhelming the print and media industries.

Anyone can look up Bible verses and concordance studies online now. There is no need to buy printed versions of this study materials.

But, three years later — citing competition from online merchants — the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

One of the Family Christian Stores branches had opened up business in Torrance, CA.

I used to go there to get all kinds of materials. One time, I had even applied for a job there.

This is another sad development in the whole changing landscape of the business world.

Sears is very likely to close down soon--what will the Del Amo Fashion Center do without that large department and the huge amount of square footage in the back?

Cooking Stuff closed down because of the growing challenges posed by the online markets.

I would also submit, however that Christian stores and other businesses are facing untold burdens to their profit margins and bottom line because of the heinous tax and spend culture out of Sacramento and throughout the city of Torrance.

There will always be a market for print materials. I still read a printed version of the Bible. It's easier to study from!

The closure of the Family Christian Bookstores is a real blow for the city of Torrance, though.

I contacted the store, and one of the staffers informed me that they do not have any positive closure date.

The owner of the property will simply lock the door on them at some point.

The store is still selling Christian merchandise if you are interested in getting something on a mark-down.

Here is their contact information if you want to contact them:

2828 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505

Phone: (310) 325-3787