VALDOSTA — LifeWay Christian Resources has announced it will close all of its brick-and-mortar stores by the end of the year to focus on digital content.

The Valdosta LifeWay Christian Store, 1747 Gornto Road, is expected to close in June, according to company officials.

“LifeWay is fortunate to have a robust publishing, events and church services business. Our retail strategy for the future will be a greater focus on digital channels, which are experiencing strong growth,” said Brad Waggoner, acting president and chief executive officer in a statement. “LifeWay is moving into a new era with a strategic digital focus that will prepare us for the future and allow us to better serve our customers.”

The total closure of its brick-and-mortar operations has come just a few months after the company stated it would reduce the number of stores, but had hoped to “keep some stores open;” however, “current market projections show this is no longer a viable option,” Waggoner said.

“The decision to close our local stores is a difficult one. LifeWay has developed close connections with the communities where our stores are located and we have been honored to serve those communities. We will continue serving local congregations as they meet the spiritual needs of their neighbors.”

According to the company statement, LifeWay has five times as many interactions with people through its digital environments as it does through its physical stores.

“Our world and our customers are increasingly online,” Waggoner said. “Investing in a dynamic digital strategy allows LifeWay to better serve the church in its mission and only enhances our ability to provide biblical solutions for life.”

For more information on how the closure may affect individual accounts, churches, Vacation Bible School products, gift cards and more, visit https://www.lifeway.com/StoreFAQs or call 1 (800) 458-2772.

Jason Smith is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1257.