Recently, our new VP of Communications, Victoria Veda, had several members of the MRA team participate in an exercise to identify the “Spirit of a Michigan Retailer.” Victoria joined MRA in September and her energy and creativity have helped us think differently and she’s pushed many of us outside our comfort zones (in a good way!).
As we compiled our “spirit” list, the characteristics we identified made me even more proud to be a representative of the retail industry. Our members show entrepreneurial grit, they are involved in their communities, and they demonstrate resilience through adversity. However, I have a personal favorite: retailers are risk takers.
The hardworking members of our industry open their doors every day to create a great experience for their customers. Weather, staffing, and government regulation are all daily obstacles that can impact their success. In short, entrepreneurs take risks, often through substantial financial investments, to achieve their dreams of operating a successful retail enterprise.
The team at Michigan Retailers Association intimately identifies with the concept of risk. Our Association carries chargeback risk related to our credit card program, Retailers Insurance Company assumes risk for workers’ compensation claims, and we constantly advocate against harmful regulations floated by lawmakers.
As we head further into 2025, we look forward to embracing the uncertainty of a changing market alongside our risk-taking members who we know are built for the challenge. Please don’t feel that you are on this journey alone. Reach out to us if you need support. We’re here for you as you conquer your retail quest!
Bill Hallan
CEO, Michigan Retailers Association
