Since we put the Michigan Retail Index survey online at the beginning of this year, members find it easier to provide comments. We will publish a selection of members’ comments each month.

No names are included because survey participation is anonymous.

“The increase in shipping costs appears to be more from the fuel surcharge than anything else.”

“Shipping costs on hanger packs (men’s tailored clothing) have gone up about 2-1/2 times thanks to “dimensional weight.”

“We are pleased that business has been good; however we are cautious and scared it will slow down. We have also had a hard time renting out our commercial property and more retail businesses in our town are closing.”

“A must to survive in today’s economy (especially in Michigan) is to increase distribution areas. Our company is expanding into other states, with strong quarterly promotional programs and creative marketing incentives.

Our wholesale pricing has remained the same even though the entire industry has taken increases across the board and we use this as a positive. We have lower profit margins with a concentration on higher volume sales and rapid turnover.

We project an increase in pricing by October 1, 2007. Our inventory is ‘just in time’ with minimal inventories on all items—both raw materials and finished product.”