Time to recalibrate
by James P. Hallan
MRA President and Chief Executive Officer

By the time this column appears in print, the holiday dust will have settled. I hope that your selling season was successful and that 2008 will bring all of us a brighter economic picture.

These are certainly tough times in Michigan and, unfortunately, the economic indicators point to another challenging year as Michigan continues to restructure. But all of us know that Michigan is too vibrant a state not to spring back.

As Michigan recalibrates, we, too, must look at reinventing ourselves. All of us must take a hard look at our own businesses to see what we can do better.

Michigan Retailers is no exception. Doing what we did yesterday simply will not work today.

Michigan Retailers has a long and storied history of success. I’ve been honored to be part of that success for the past 22 years and privileged to work with Larry Meyer, who recently retired after 35 years of wonderful leadership.

Now, the marketplace demands that we examine our business model to see if we can do things better, quicker and more efficiently while continuing to provide you the best value on a wide array of services — with absolutely the highest level of customer service.

As for what you can do to reinvent your businesses: for starters, take advantage of more of the services open to you because of your membership in Michigan Retailers. These range from discounts on natural gas, package shipping and e-mail marketing services to our health, dental, vision and life insurance programs. From expert merchant processing, gift card and remote check deposit programs to workers’ compensation insurance through Retailers Mutual Insurance Company. Even college scholarships for your children, employees and their families.

Also, consider attending the upcoming Retail Education Conference on February 25 here in Lansing. The two seminars offered that day are designed to be useful to every retailer—and every business owner.

As we look ahead to 2008, there are some bright spots on the horizon. For example, one of our key partners, Delta Dental of Michigan, just announced an $85-million expansion of its headquarters in Okemos, a project that strengthens the company’s commitment to Michigan and adds much-needed jobs to the economy. As the board chair of that organization, I was pleased to participate in the announcement and know the good things that will come from it.

Thank you for your membership and trust in Michigan Retailers. I look forward to the opportunities created by the challenges ahead and wish you the very best in 2008.