Since we put the Michigan Retail Index survey online at the beginning of this year, members find it easier to provide comments. We will publish a selection of members’ comments each month.

No names are included because survey participation is anonymous.

“August sales were the best monthly sales we’ve had in three years.”

“August this year was down almost 50 percent from last year!”

“It’s a very scary economy for us, as we are a ‘want’ not a ‘need.’ People losing homes and jobs don’t shop for jewelry in Michigan.”

“We are in a high tourist area and business has been very good this summer. The State of Michigan had planned an advertising budget for encouraging people from other states to visit Michigan.”

“We’ve had fewer customers but larger ticket sales.”

“Construction in Oakland County has all but stopped, so there’s low demand for truck and construction tires. Accounts receivable collection is 14-15 days longer than a year ago. I see no upturn in construction activity for several years as we have so many empty homes, condos, factories and even strip malls.”

“Sales are about the same, but operating costs continue to climb. It’s hard to maintain our margins without raising prices.”

Survey responders
win cash

Bob Snyder, of Pro Golf Lansing, won $25 just for responding to the online Michigan Retail Index Survey in August.

Snyder was selected in a random drawing among business owners who told us they completed the survey in August. The giveaway will continue for the next several months.

For your chance to win: complete the survey, let us know via e-mail, and your name will be part of the next drawing.

If you aren’t receiving an invitation to complete the online survey, it probably means we don’t have your e-mail address. Send an e-mail to mra@retailers.com to be added to our e-mail distribution list.