Salary survey to provide vital market information

A good retailer checks out the competition. But it’s not just prices and merchandise that should get your attention. Don’t miss the opportunity to find out what stores in your area are paying employees and what benefits they are offering.

Michigan Retailers Association is conducting the third in a series of surveys of salaries, wages and benefits. Survey questionnaires were mailed in late August and are due by September 15.

“The 2000 and 2002 surveys provided valuable information about the marketplace in Michigan and its distinct geographic regions,” said Bruce Johnson, of Gazelle Sports in Kalamazoo, who chairs the committee of MRA directors overseeing the questionnaire.

“The 2004 edition will update you on what you need to know about starting wages, average wages, health care benefits, bonuses, commissions, retirement plans and much, much more.”

Members who return their completed survey by the deadline of September 15 will receive a copy of the results at no cost. The full report is expected to be issued in late October, before the rush of the holiday season.

Members who don’t participate can purchase the report for $75; the price will be $125 for non-members.

The survey project is being conducted by Lansing economist Patrick Anderson and his firm, Anderson Economic Group, together with Mitchell Research and Communications in East Lansing. Anderson and Mitchell Research also conducted the first two surveys.

The questionnaires will be returned to Mitchell Research to ensure confidentiality of members’ answers. Respondents are not asked to put their names on the questionnaires, but will fill out a separate card so that Mitchell can inform MRA which retailers are to receive a free copy of the report.