Christian Publishers Outlet sold to Springfield family

Christian Publishers Outlet, a well-known Christian-oriented book, music and gift store at 4145 S. National, has been sold. Owners Bill and Harolyn Link recently announced the sale of CPO's retail business to Bruce and Kim Erdel of Springfield. Scott Axon and David Hamm of Sunbelt Business Brokers handled the transaction.

Bruce Erdel, a graduate of Truman State University, has more than 18 years experience in business management. For the past year, he served as general manager of Heim & Young Financial Corporation. Kim Erdel, a community volunteer, currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Junior League of Springfield. The Erdels have two daughters and have resided in Springfield since 1996.

They are active members of their local church.

"My wife and I will continue to operate CPO with the family-oriented approach established by the Links," Bruce Erdel said. "We are blessed to acquire a successful business and ministry so solidly based on Christian principles.

"This is a very exciting and challenging opportunity for us. We look forward to continuing the traditions that CPO's loyal customers have come to rely on," Erdel added.

Christian Publishers Outlet was founded in 1991 with the mission of making Christian literature, entertainment and related merchandise available at discounted prices.

"That mission was certainly reflec- tive of the vision we had for the store when we purchased it in 1994," Bill Link said.

"It's been a great experience for us and we're very grateful to the thousands of customers who made it possible. We know the store will be in good hands with the Erdels."