News

MRA reports robust rise in December 2021 retail sales

Actual Dec sales

Retailers report strong rise in sales over November
and year-over-year

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Retailers Association today reports December saw another strong month for retail sales over November and over December 2020.

MRA reports November retail sales higher year-over-year

November actual sales

Retailers report strong sales during extended holiday shopping weekend

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Retailers Association today reports November saw another strong month for retail sales compared to October and November 2020 numbers.

News from the Capitol: You’ve given up a lot, but giving to this cause is important

Amy Drumm, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for Michigan Retailers Association

By AMY DRUMM, MRA Vice President, Government Affairs

While this is a season of giving, it’s hard to avoid thinking about how we’ve all given a lot over the past two years.

English Gardens on giving back and educating others

English Gardens stakeholders

‘Tis the season of giving, but English Gardens, with six locations in the southeastern portion of the state, donates year-round.

With goals of helping out local causes and organizations,

Winter slips, trips, and fall safety tips

Winter slips

Prevention

  • Wear proper foot gear
  • Take smaller steps when walking
  • Walk slowly and never run on icy ground
  • Keep both hands free for balance rather than in your pockets
  • Use handrails from start to finish
  • Avoid carrying loads
  • Keep your eyes on where you are going
  • Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them
  • Step –

Looking to reduce shrink in the new year?

The answers may lie in your POS system.
Top five ways your POS can eliminate problem areas in your business.

By JOHN MAYLEBEN

With all the disruptions experienced over the past year,

2022 Predictions to note

2022 Predictions

Eight in 10 consumers will see the world as ALL digital

Consumers have rapidly increased their technology adoption and usage in the COVID-19 pandemic, with 63% of U.S. online adults saying that they completed a new activity online,

VIP expands its very important mission in the community

VIP Volunteer cuts wood

When the tough gets going and encounters a pandemic, the tough change course. How VIP mapped a new course for the future.

By JENNIFER ROOK
Photos VIP

There has been much focus on how small business owners have adjusted,

A mother keeps her promise by helping thousands

Judy Burns, Friends Together

By SHANDRA MARTINEZ
Photos THE ALPENA NEWS

For 26 years, Friends Together has been there for people who are battling cancer, whether that means providing transportation to medical appointments or finding a place where they can talk about their experiences.