Governmental Affairs: January 30, 2015
Michigan Retailers Association offers more than 30 college scholarships
LANSING – Michigan Retailers Association is offering 34 or more college scholarships this spring through the annual competition funded by its Michigan Retailers Foundation.
At least 34 scholarships will be available to the families of MRA members and their employees for the 2015-16 academic year.
Strong December lifts Michigan holiday season
LANSING – Most Michigan retailers reported better holiday sales, thanks to a strong December, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
Technology alters skills of young workers
One of the side effects of recent advances in communication technology is the diminished ability of Gen Y (21-34 years old) and Gen Z (12-20 years) to effectively communicate face to face with the Baby Boom generation.
Retailers applaud Gov. Snyder’s signing of Main Street Fairness legislation
LANSING – Michigan’s retail industry applauded Gov. Snyder’s signing today of the Main Street Fairness bills and said the new law marks a giant step forward in leveling the retail playing field for Michigan businesses competing against out-of-state online merchants.
Defining a good profit margin
Although a retail store’s typical initial markup on merchandise could be 40 percent or more, actual profitability takes into account all expenses, such as payroll, rent, utilities, insurance and advertising.
MRA promotes credit card processing expert
LANSING – Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) announced the promotion of Darcy Gates CPP, one of MRA’s expert staff members in the increasingly complex merchant processing arena, to Manager of Sales Support.
Lynch Sales Company receives Centennial honors
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) presented a special plaque and certificate to Lynch Sales Company in Grand Rapids in honor of the company’s 100th anniversary.
MRA President and CEO James P.
Michigan retail sales, forecasts slip in November
LANSING – Despite improved conditions for the start of holiday shopping, Michigan retailers ended November with lackluster sales, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
