News

New overtime rule, expungement, and vapor product transport guidance

In this issue:

  • U.S. Department of Labor issues final overtime rule
  • State releases transportation/return guidance on flavored vaping products
  • MRA’s marketplace bills one step closer to completion
  • House takes testimony on automatic expungement of certain crimes
  • House declares Oct.

August shows strong retail sales

Retail sales have had ups and downs this year, but August helped make up for the slow periods.

The August Retail Index survey came in at 60.1, a decrease from August 2018’s 73.2,

Flavored vaping ban details, budget shutdown what ifs

In this issue:

  • Flavored vaping products cannot be sold after Oct. 1
  • What happens if the state shuts down?
  • Governor proclaims Oct. 4-6 as Buy Nearby Weekend
  • Regulatory round-up

Flavored vaping products cannot be sold after Oct.

Flavored e-cig product ban, wage theft bills introduced

In this issue:

  • Agreement reached to complete the budget before roads
  • Governor announces flavored vaping/alternative nicotine product ban
  • E-prescribing bills reported from house committee
  • Bills introduced to bolster AG’s wage theft task force
  • Governor proclaims September as Family Meals Month
  • Regulatory round-up

Agreement reached to complete the budget before roads

After much back and forth all year and parting shots all summer,

Hiring baby boomers: What you need to know

By Retailers Insurance Company

Baby boomers are altering the workforce. In an economic phase where employers are crying for talent, organizations that learn to accommodate and leverage older workers’ skills will reap benefits.

Capitalizing on Halloween – Go beyond decorating your store

With Halloween spending hovering around the $9 billion mark, you’re crazy not to take advantage of this fun holiday to drive sales.

But don’t wait too long.

Retail Index: Summer weather in July helps Michigan sales

LANSING, Mich. – July was a much better month for Michigan retailers, as parents started back-to-school shopping and summer weather encouraged shoppers to hit the stores after a cold, rainy June.

Jim Hallan: MRA’s President and CEO reflects on his 34-year career

By MEEGAN HOLLAND

“What an honor to represent the retail industry,” Hallan said. “Not many people get to be a spokesperson for thousands of members. It’s your voice that hopefully carries the right message.”

Hallan has witnessed a massive transformation in retail since he joined MRA in 1985.