News

Credit Card Theft Impacts Most Vulnerable

I was grateful but dismayed to recently receive an article from former MRA employee, current MRA consultant, and great friend to retail, John Mayleben, which highlighted the recent surge in “skimming” of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards.

Collaborate, Advocate, and Engage

In April, the collective voices of Michigan’s retail industry reverberated through the halls of the Michigan Capitol as Michigan Retailers Association hosted its annual Capitol Day and Legislative Reception. In a vibrant display of unity and advocacy,

Register for $5.54 Billion Settlement on Interchange Fees by Aug. 30, 2024

The Visa/Mastercard Class Action Settlement claim filing deadline of May 31, 2024, has been extended to Aug. 30, 2024. You still have time to take advantage of the potential to recover money for your organization!

Michigan Retailers Report Decrease in April Sales

Retail Index logo

Michigan Retailers Association today reports that April 2024 sales dropped slightly, landing at 42.5 on the 100-point Retail Index. The March 2024 Retail Indexes came in at 44.3.

The 100-point Index provides a snapshot of the state’s overall retail industry.

Michigan Retailers Report Stagnate Q1 Sales Numbers

Retail Index logo

Michigan Retailers Association today reports that March 2024 sales again performed moderately, landing at 44.3 on the 100-point Retail Index. The January and February 2024 Retail Indexes came in at 48.0,

Shining the Spotlight: Munising

aerial view of downtown Munising

Whether you are coming from the east or the west, driving into Munising offers beautiful sights. From one direction: the roadside Alger Falls, and from the other, a picturesque view of Lake Superior’s Grand Island –

Swift Hardware Celebrates 155 Years Serving The Copper Country

Swift Hardware building

Swift Hardware in Houghton has been an essential part of the Upper Peninsula for 155 years. From its origins in Ishpeming to its current location on Sheldon Avenue in Houghton,

Explore MRA’s Suite of Savings

MRA membership flowchart

Are you getting the most out of your MRA membership? Take a journey through this flowchart and ensure you’re up to speed on the suite of benefits.

MRA membership flowchart

Download the Flowchart

100-Foot Replica Mine Helps Make U.P. Jewelry Store One of The ‘Coolest’ in the U.S.

Tourists visiting Marquette make time to visit Wattsson & Wattsson Jewelers, even if they aren’t planning to buy handcrafted rings, to walk through a full-scale replica mine.

By: Shandra Martinez

When Ron Wattsson bought a historic building in downtown Marquette for his jewelry store in 1987,