News

Retail Index: Summer weather in July helps Michigan sales

LANSING, Mich. – July was a much better month for Michigan retailers, as parents started back-to-school shopping and summer weather encouraged shoppers to hit the stores after a cold, rainy June.

Jim Hallan: MRA’s President and CEO reflects on his 34-year career

By MEEGAN HOLLAND

“What an honor to represent the retail industry,” Hallan said. “Not many people get to be a spokesperson for thousands of members. It’s your voice that hopefully carries the right message.”

Hallan has witnessed a massive transformation in retail since he joined MRA in 1985.

Attorney Thomas P. Clement named General Counsel for Michigan Retailers Association

LANSING, MI – The Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) today announced the appointment of Thomas P. Clement as its General Counsel, effective Sept. 3.

Clement is currently General Counsel for the Michigan Supreme Court,

Retailers report slower sales in June

Retailers reported another dip in sales in June 2019, but retailers across the state remain optimistic sales will be on the upswing in the upcoming months.

The monthly Retail Index survey came in at 42.1,

MRA announces 2019-2020 scholarship winners

21 students receiving Retailers scholarships

MRA’s annual scholarship competition is awarding 21 scholarships totaling $30,000 for the 2019-20 academic year.

The awards are funded by the Michigan Retailers Foundation and contributions from MRA members and other donors.

Upcoming regulations, court discusses adopt and amend

In this issue:

  • Marketplace bills reported from committee
  • Court hears oral arguments on changes to paid medical leave law
  • Democrats road funding plan: raise taxes on businesses
  • High court weighs in on nonresident alcohol sale restrictions
  • License needed to sell CBD/industrial hemp products
  • EEOC pay data due by Sept.

Food Retailers Summit is Sept. 25-27: Register now!

Grocers, suppliers and friends – join us at Crystal Mountain Resort for the Food Retailers Summit, where we’ll take networking to the next level! This year’s agenda is full of hot topics and networking events that we can’t wait to share with you.

The power of power tools on your shelves: More customers

According to Hardware Retailing magazine, 81 percent of power tools are purchased in-store, not online.

The magazine surveyed customers, who said they purchased a new tool based on price and where they were already shopping at the time.

May sales down slightly; tariffs causing tension

LANSING – Retailers reported slightly lower sales in May 2019 and many are noting tariffs as the culprit.

The monthly Retail Index survey came in at 46.9, a drop from May 2018’s 61.4.