Committee Spotlight: Delaware Retail Council

BY TYLER MICIK

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 61 percent of consumers say they depend on physical stores being open to meet the shopping needs of themselves and their families. At the beginning of the pandemic, many businesses proved their resiliency by springing into action to continue creatively and safely serving their customers and community.

Not only are retailers economic first responders but they also provide many people with their first experience in the workforce. The NRF reports that one in three people’s first job is in retail and 71 percent of managers across all industries value retail experience. A job in retail helps teach soft skills that aid in personal and professional development.

The State Chamber’s committees bring people together to solve problems, and one thing couldn’t be clearer— retail, like many other industries, is struggling to find workers. Despite offering increased hourly wages, sign-on bonuses, and other incentives, many retailers are still seriously understaffed and facing decisions like reducing operating hours.

The Delaware Retail Council, an affiliate of the Delaware State Chamber and National Retail Federation, is renewing its focus to support and advocate for retail in Delaware. The group met over the summer to discuss issues in the industry and share the challenges they’re facing on the ground. Best Buy, Christiana Mall, Dogfish Head, Goodwill, Meoli Companies, Target, T-Mobile, and Verizon are just a few of the companies actively participating in these conversations.

If you’re a retailer, we want to hear from you! If you’d like to join the Delaware Retail Council and shape the future of the industry in the First State, please contact Tyler Micik at tmicik@ dscc.com or (302) 576-6590.