News

How to create effective store window displays

Creative window displays are an ideal way to set your business apart from the competition. Windows are the billboard of your store, according to Tony Camilletti, of store-design firm JGA Inc.

Michigan retail sales bounce back

LANSING – Michigan retailers’ sales rose sharply in March, rebounding from their steep drop in February, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

Governmental Affairs: March 27, 2015

Legislators leave for two-week break

Legislators are on a two-week break, starting today. Accordingly, MRA will not send a Government Affairs News update until after legislators return on April 14.

What to consider when opening a second store

Personal time commitment, quality personnel and an expanded customer base are key factors that impact the success of a second store, according to retailers who have run multi-store operations.

These retailers are quick to point out the extra work and stress involved with running an additional location.

February cold hurts Michigan retail sales

LANSING – Michigan retailers’ sales fell along with the temperatures during February, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

Governmental Affairs: March 13, 2015

Gov. Snyder’s energy message focuses on the future

Gov. Snyder released a special message on energy today focusing on renewable energy and reducing energy waste. The governor said he could support expanding Michigan’s renewable energy portfolio standard for utilities to 24% by 2025.

Governmental Affairs: February 27, 2015

Retail fraud bills to be reintroduced

2014 legislation that would allow for the recovery of law enforcement costs related to retail fraud cases will be reintroduced this term. Last year’s Senate bill never made it out of a House committee due to confusion that the bill would add new penalties for retail fraud.

Michigan retailers expect sales growth this year

LANSING – Seventy-nine percent of Michigan retail businesses expect to grow their sales this year, with the increases averaging 2.4 percent, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

Governmental Affairs: February 13, 2015

Democrats make paid sick leave a priority

House and Senate democrats have introduced paid sick leave legislation and made it a priority issue for their caucuses. The legislation, HB 4167 and SB 101,