BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (RNS) The founder and chief executive of an arts and crafts store that makes religion central to its mission says sales are up in the midst of a sour economy, and the company remains on pace to open up to 30 new stores this year.

David Green, founder of the Okalahoma-based Hobby Lobby chain of stores, attributed the continued growth to faith in God and the company’s commitment to operate according to biblical principles.

He also cited a hands-on approach to merchandising — not using scanning systems, for example — and empowering employees to make decisions for themselves as keys to the retailer’s success.

“Just because everybody else is doing it doesn’t mean it’s right,” Green told students at Samford University’s Brock School of Business.

But the retailer’s business plan also includes mainstays that are far different from its peers. Hobby Lobby stores are closed on Sundays and close at 8 p.m. during the week to give employees more time with their families.

The Oklahoma City-based chain has grown from a $600 start-up in 1972 to 417 stores in 33 states today. This year, annual sales for Hobby Lobby and its subsidiaries hit $2 billion.

So far this year, Green said same-store sales are up 5 percent over last year, and the company plans to open 25 to 30 additional stores.

“It’s God’s blessings,” Green said. “And with that blessing, he inspires us to continue to be better merchants.”