Bible Bookshop’s January-February revenue hits VT2.5 million

February 22, 2024 3:39 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Ezra Toara & Tonny Tahaun.

The Bible Bookshop in Vanuatu’s capital has generated 2.5 million Vatu (VT) in revenue solely from sales during January and February of this year.

This increase is attributed to the commencement of the school year and the resumption of activities after the holiday season, with a significant number of students purchasing Bibles.

Elder Jackleen Reuben, the Manager of Niu Laef Christian Bookshop Limited (NLCB Ltd), said that their stock is about 5,500 items as of December 21, 2023.

This stock has played a key role in generating income and stimulating sales, particularly as students flock to buy Bibles at the start of the school year.

Elder Reuben mentioned a shortage of French Bibles, expressing the intent to seek Government assistance for their purchase.

Despite relatively modest sales last year, reaching nearly VT10 million, the revenue was sufficient to cover rent and staff salaries.

The Bible Society, recognising the need for broader assistance to churches, has opened a new bookshop in the town centre.

Manager Reuben explained that the Bible Society has decided to separate its works, concentrating more on translation and mission activities to support churches facing a decline in growth.

In collaboration with the Vanuatu Christian Council (VCC), the Bible Society is focusing on translation projects.

VCC has granted them freedom to undertake these projects as they acknowledge the challenges of running a business alongside mission efforts.

Pastor Collin Kelep, Chairman of VCC and Chairman of NLCB Limited Board, emphasised the importance of the bookshop in providing affordable resources for people to equip themselves as representatives of God in society.

The goal of the bookshop is to make resources accessible to everyone in the country at affordable prices, enabling individuals to register as people of God in society.

Elder Reuben emphasised that this business is God’s business and he expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the mission shop’s vision.

The Bible bookshop’s shareholders include the VCC, Bible Society, and other friends who have contributed to the mission’s advancement.

Its vision is not only to provide resources but also to impact lives positively, potentially determining the salvation of souls based on the Bibles purchased.