MRA’s Bill Hallan and Amy Drumm joined Michigan State Senator Joe Bellino (R) and State Representative Kristian Grant (D) at the National Retail Federation’s State Legislative Experience and Retail’s Big Show in New York City in January. We experienced behind-the-scenes store tours, browsed booths exploring retail innovation and technology, and participated in panels with industry leaders.
Retail technology dominated many conversations, exploring technological advances, AI, and using technology to reach customers in new ways. Retailers big and small are embracing technology in new areas of business to improve efficiency and stay competitive in today’s market.
Organized Retail Crime (ORC) and its costs were a heavy focus, as many organizations including MRA and NRF continue to advocate for the Federal Combating Organized Retail Crime Act. MRA is also working to support the Attorney General’s efforts to obtain additional funding to combat ORC.
The variety of opportunities in retail was another core topic of discussion.
Retail’s Big Show highlighted the different career paths available in the retail industry and shared how employees can find a long, successful career in retail.
We thank Senator Bellino and Representative Grant for joining us for this experience and bringing what they learned back to Michigan. It’s an exciting time to be in retail.
