Thomas Nelson will open a wholly owned subsidiary in Mexico City on Aug. 1. The move makes Thomas Nelson the first major Christian publisher to market, distribute and sell locally.

The company said Thomas Nelson Mexico will employ a local sales team and focus on selling to distributors, bookstores and ministries.

"With the creation of Thomas Nelson Mexico, Roberto and his team are positioned and ready to better support distributors, local retailers and the flourishing Christian community," said Mark Schoenwald, President and CEO of Thomas Nelson. "And Thomas Nelson can capitalize on a market that is ripe for growth."