New chair sees growth for Association

Larry Mullins, the new chair of the MRA Board of Directors executive committee, expects that in his term the Association will continue to grow, especially with small retailers who need the resources of a large organization in order to have a voice in Michigan legislative issues.

“Some small retailers who lack the support of a larger trade association are going under, which isn’t good for them, the industry or the state’s economy. Small retailers need a voice, as well as the services and benefits we hope to provide,” said Mullins.

Mullins, who was elected chair in October, is as busy now as he was when he ran Brandon Tire & Battery in Ortonville full-time. He now spends his time sitting on or directing various boards and advising his two sons, Brent and Scott, who have taken over day-to-day management of the family business.

Mullins has served on local, state and national board for years, and considers the work important and challenging.

“Larry’s experience on national boards will be an asset for all of us on the MRA board’s executive committee,” said James P. Hallan, president and chief operating officer of MRA.

Mullins expects a few legislative issues to be increasingly important during his term: item pricing and changes to the sales tax system.

“I think we’re finally ready to see some progress on item pricing, which costs larger retailers substantially,” said Mullins. “It’s time to change our antiquated laws that waste retailers’ resources and don’t benefit consumers.”

“The state sales tax system is likely to see some minor or major tinkering in the coming years, and we have to be on top of every proposal, to consider how it will affect the industry and certain segments of the industry,” he added.

“For example, a tax on services is being considered. How will that affect Michigan’s business climate, and how will it affect communities on the borders of other states that are not taxing services? We have to consider these issues and make our collective voice heard.”

Mullins has served on the Michigan Retailers Association board since 1996, and was chair of Michigan Retailers Services board before that.

He has also moved up through the ranks in the tire industry. He is a past president of the Michigan Tire and Vehicle Service Association, as well as a former board member of the National Tire Dealers and Retreaders Association and the Tire Association of North America (TANA). Mullins has been on a national industry board in some capacity for the past 17 years.

When the Tire Association of North America and International Tire and Rubber Association merged to become TIA in January 2002, the national organization restructured its board, replacing appointments from each state with elected members. In the summer of 2003, Mullins’ name was placed on the ballot and he won a seat, elected by his Michigan colleagues in the tire industry.

TIA’s national board meets about three times a year in person, but is in constant communication throughout the year, explained Mullins, who was on his way to a TIA trade show and board meeting in Las Vegas in early November.

Mullins’ board work is not restricted to his professional career. He is still a member of Ortonville Chamber of Commerce, where he previously served on the board. He also served on boards for the local Rotary club and his church.

“People tend to think I’ll have more time, now that I’m not at the store every day, but I’m every bit as busy now as I’ve ever been. I check the calendar every day and see where I’m expected,” said Mullins.

“I’m very fortunate to have such capable sons running the family business, so I can work on larger issues of concern to retailers.”