Urbanum Detroit Grows Up During the Pandemic

BY: SHANDRA MARTINEZ
MRA Member Brigid Beaubien says her Detroit shop has morphed from toddler to adult in terms of understanding its brand and audience.
Urbanum Detroit was just 18 months old when the pandemic hit in early 2020.
Barden Lumber credits community support as it marks one hundredth anniversary

BY: SHANDRA MARTINEZ
Barden Lumber, located in Boyne City, is marking its centennial. They’re grateful to the Northern Michigan community for supporting their business throughout the years.
Legally Speaking: Fostering Diversity in the Workplace

By TOM CLEMENT, MRA VP, Operations and General Counsel
Diversity is a strength to the institutions we hold close in our country. Whether who we live near,
Michigan retailers need help finding and keeping workers

Additional Justice System Reforms Could Help
BY: CEO Action for Racial Equality
CEOARE is a fellowship of over 100 companies from across America, ranging from retailers to accountants,
Honoring our unsung heroes and seeing things in a new way

You may have noticed that we’ve added a little feature called “From the Archives” as a nod to the early days of MRA and Michigan Retailer. Being a sucker for nostalgia,
From the CEO: Members are our source of inspiration

As the father of three, including Olivia, my 11-year-old, I’m used to the occasional eye-roll. It reached a new level last week when Olivia wanted to throw out a perfectly good fan because it didn’t meet the “aesthetic” she was trying to achieve in her room.
Wren’s Lisa Gnass shares her journey to small business ownership

Wren Home, LLC was a long-time dream. Dimondale resident Lisa Gnass grew up with a passion for interior design and home décor but never thought twice that her career would allow her to also start her own business.
MRA reports robust rise in December 2021 retail 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

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.