There is renewed interest in nativities for 2008, and suppliers are offering a range of styles — from classic to contemporary — to appeal to shoppers.

Steve Rose, marketing coordinator, burton + BURTON, says that requests from retailers have prompted his company to increase the number of nativity sets in its holiday line. He believes the popularity of the category is a reflection of consumers’ current enthusiasm for inspirational and spiritual products of all types.

According to Velia Faso, director of special affairs for Roman, Inc., nativities are bestsellers “year after year” at Roman, which is currently celebrating the 100th anniversary of its Fontanini brand of nativities. New in that line is a set of kings in regal robes in shades of red and gold.

More atypical nativity figures, such as the innkeeper and his wife, are popular at Hestia Creations. Says Sales Associate Susan Thompson, “We have the figures everyone expects, but also unexpected characters.”

Traditional styles continue to lead sales, say suppliers, noting that most consumers are seeking nativity sets like those they remember from their childhood Christmases. Yet even this most traditional of categories is influenced by design trends. Leanne Antonucci, senior buyer, Giftcraft, reports that her company is adding more contemporary looks to its nativity offerings. One new scene, for example, features taller, more sleekly styled figures. “They’re less detailed, a little more abstract,” she notes. Also popular at Giftcraft, says Antonucci, are one-piece nativity scenes, which are often purchased as gift items.//