Collaborate, Advocate, and Engage

From L-R: Grant Weber, JCPenney’s Angela Marshall Hoffmann, Kendra Patterson, Pete Birchler, Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, MRA President and CEO William J. Hallan, MRA Board Members Jeff Joyce and Orin Mazzoni, Meijer’s Sonny Hoogendorn, and MRA Senior VP, Government Affairs, Amy Drumm

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, our retail ambassadors spent the day meeting with legislative officials, discussing top issues of our industry, such as organized retail crime, data privacy issues, and problematic legislation involving state-mandated family leave. More important than individual issues, ambassadors were able to tell their story – how they ended up in retail, and why retail is so important to each community. 

We’re sincerely grateful to all those who dedicated their time, passion, and energy to make this event a resounding success. Following a day full of meetings, ambassadors joined us at our legislative reception, which was attended by approximately 150 individuals, including representatives from all branches of government.

If you are interested in participating in Capitol Day next year, please reach out to our Government Affairs team. The continued involvement of our members helps to not only amplify the voices of individual businesses, but also foster a thriving environment for economic growth and prosperity in our communities. 

I must also extend a heartfelt thanks to the policymakers and legislators who took the time to engage with us during Capitol Day. Their willingness to listen, understand, and collaborate underscores the importance of dialogue in shaping policies that benefit both businesses and consumers alike. By working together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for Michigan’s retail industry.

As we reflect on the successes of Capitol Day, let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration, advocacy, and community engagement. Together, we have demonstrated the power of unity in affecting positive change.

William J. Hallan
President and CEO
Michigan Retailers Association