EDITOR'S Note

What's in a (New) Name?

For a snapshot of how the body-mind-spirit market has changed over the last decade, consider this: In 2001, 4.3 million adults practiced yoga; by 2008, it was nearly four times that number, with annual spending on yoga classes and products reaching $5.7 billion in the U.S. And this is no isolated statisic, but rather a sympton of the growth and mainstreaming of previously esoteric practices and ideas.

If you've been in this market for a few years, you understand what I mean: Oprah's Soul Series, the success of The Secret, and the rise of socially and ecologically conscious movements (LOHAS: Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) have introduced New Age and related concepts to the masses on a larger scale than ever before. This would be a great thing for New Age, except many people don't refer to themselves or their beliefs by that term. While the words "spiritual," "body-mind-spirit," "conscious living," or "holistic lifestyle" resonate with this new, more mainstream audience, "New Age" continues to have mixed associations, even within our industry, which might lead you to believe the market is smaller than it really is. In reality, the mainstreaming process has greatly broadened the appeal of meaningful, spiritual, and healthful products.

Embracing the retailers and wholesalers in this expanding market has prompted some exciting changes for New Age Retailer, the most significant of which is our new name. Starting in January 2012, the magazine will become Retailing Insight. While the magazine you know and love will continue to bring you spot-on product picks, informative business articles, and engaging interviews you've come to rely on, our new, more inclusive title will reflect the evolution of the marketplace and invite even more readers and wholesalers to the party. In other words, it's New Age Retailer, only better.

For more than 25 years, you've trusted us to help support your business, and we take your trust very seriously. So, while the name of our magazine is changing, our mission to be a catalyst for your success never will. Join us in 2012 as we move forward into a future bright with possibilities.

Janine DePaulo, Editor