Detroit’s Downtown Boxing Gym Youth program transforming young lives
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Mackinaw City’s Marshall’s Fudge Turns 100 How to Attract New Business in Winter Months Inaugural Winners of the Buy Nearby Weekend Coloring Contest
DEC 2023/JAN 2024
VOL. 48 NO. 6
The official publication of Michigan RetailersRetailer Association Michigan |1
BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE CEO
Sense the Joy of Buying Nearby WILLIAM J. HALLAN President & CEO of Michigan Retailers Association
If you’re looking for a new show to binge over the holidays, look no further than All the Light We Cannot See, the new mini series on Netflix. The series follows the path of a blind French girl during the final days of WWII. To navigate her surroundings, the girl’s father constructs an entire miniature replica of their city. As he traces his daughter’s fingers through the streets, telling her where to turn and when to stop, it’s evident we rarely rely on all our senses. Too often do we fall into the trap of: See. Click. Buy. We shortchange our capacities for instant gratification or convenience. Yet shopping in person evokes all the sensations: seeing, touching, smelling, and sometimes even tasting. I spent about six hours in a retail shop a few weeks ago. Kendra Patterson, owner of Michigan Barn Wood and Salvage, was kind enough to lend us her store so Michigan Retailers Association could film its annual holiday video. If you’ve ever been on a film set, you know that there is a lot of down time in between shots. As a result, we had the opportunity to enjoy every section of the store. The MRA team smelled all the candles, choosing our favorites. We picked up winter hats, assessing their warmth. We scouted the aisles finding trinkets for those in our families that are hard to shop for, and I was once again reminded of all the reasons why I love retail. For those of us that are fortunate to have full use of our senses, I encourage you to use them. Try on that sweater instead of ordering it in two sizes and sending it back. Feel the joy of entering a retail shop that has gone all out with its holiday decorations. Support your local retailers, because when you Buy Nearby, it has an impact we all can see.
Bill Golden Chair Golden Shoes, Traverse City William J. Hallan President & CEO Michigan Retailers Association Bryan Neiman Vice Chair Neiman’s Family Market, St. Clair Peter R. Sobelton Treasurer Mondial Properties, Birmingham Bo Brines Past Chair Little Forks Outfitters, Midland Kim Edsenga Meijer, Inc., Grand Rapids Becky Beauchine Kulka Becky Beauchine Kulka Diamonds and Fine Jewelry, Okemos Dan Marshall Marshall Music Company, Lansing Orin Mazzoni, Jr. Orin Jewelers, Northville Joseph McCurry Credit Card Group Raeann Rouse Bridge Street Baby, Rockford Thomas Ungrodt TDU Consulting, LLC, Ann Arbor Larry Meyer Board Member Emeritus
MICHIGAN RETAILERS SERVICES, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS William J. Hallan President & CEO Thomas P. Clement VP, Operations and General Counsel John Leppink Leppink’s Food Centers, Belding Kendra Patterson Michigan Barn Wood & Salvage, Mason Joe Swanson Target, Retired
MICHIGAN RETAILER William J. Hallan Publisher Andrea Bitely Editor Rachel Schrauben Copy Editor and Content Manager Josh Delany Design, Layout, and Photographer Shandra Martinez Contributor
D. Larry Sherman Board Member Emeritus
Michigan Barn Wood and Salvage, located in Mason, features products from more than 100 local artisans. Michigan Retailer (USPS 345-780, ISSN 08890439) is published six times annually: February, April, June, August, October, & December by Michigan Retailers Association. Average circulation: 4183. 603 South Washington Avenue Lansing, Michigan 48933
WILLIAM J. HALLAN MRA President and Chief Executive Officer
Periodical postage paid at Lansing, Michigan Postmaster: Send address changes to 603 South Washington Ave., Lansing MI 48933. This publication may be recycled with white office paper.
With every issue, we reach retail owners, managers, and executives who make spending decisions for 15,000 stores and websites across the state. To request a media kit, email Rachel Schrauben at rschrauben@retailers.com
“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day.” – Andy Rooney
CONTENTS FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
5 Division Spotlight: Michigan Retail Shoe Dealers
14 Step Up Your Storefront’s Appeal
The group became a division of MRA in 1956
How to attract new business in winter months
8 Marshall’s Fudge Celebrates Centennial One hundred years of sweet success
10 Member Spotlight:
Detroit Downtown Boxing Gym Youth program transforming lives
16 Buy Nearby Weekend Coloring Contest See the winning masterpieces
18 2024 Scholarship Application Launches Jan. 1 Thirteen $3,500 awards up for grabs
From the CEO Sense the Joy of Buying Nearby Under the Dome Early Legislative Adjournment is a Gift Legally Speaking Avoiding Regrettable Hiring Decisions Creative Counsel Finding the Right Hues Regulatory Rundown MLCC, Retailers Build Partnerships MRA Member News Milestone Members New Members From the Archives
RETAILERS.COM RETAILERSINSURANCE.COM BUYNEARBYMI.COM Visit us online to see what’s new in the industry and what services we provide members to strengthen your business.
ON THE COVER
Detroit’s Downtown Boxing Gym breaks down barriers and supports students through vital resources. Michigan Retailer | 3
UNDER THE DOME
L E G A L LY S P E A K I N G
Early Legislative Adjournment is a Gift
Avoiding Regretable Hiring Decisions
AMY DRUMM MRA Senior Vice President, Government Affairs
THOMAS CLEMENT MRA Vice President, Operations and General Counsel
Legislative work officially ceased on Nov. 14. This is earlier than the legislature has adjourned in over 55 years. Typically, lawmakers are still in session well into December. Let’s call this what it is: a gift for any business owner hoping for less regulation. It’s often suggested that having a “full-time” legislature is bad if they aren’t working full time. I’m here to tell you that it’s better for them to head back to their districts than stay in Lansing finding things to work on. (Having worked for a legislator, I can confirm they are often more busy meeting with constituents and attending meetings and events at home than they are in Lansing.) Most states have what they call a “part-time” legislature that only meets several months out of the year. What’s good about that is the limited time forces them to prioritize work on critical issues and largely avoids the need to “look busy.” What’s bad is that sometimes policy gets rushed. In Michigan, we have a year-round, “full-time” legislature that largely follows the school calendar year for its session schedule. Each legislative session spans two years, meaning unpassed bills remain active until the legislature adjourns in an even year. We’ve always been subject to the rush mentality to get various lawmakers priorities done before a legislative break, or so they can take credit in the next election cycle, or before a lawmaker is either voted out of or term-limited from office. But most of the time, complicated policies receive thorough vetting in workgroup discussions and the committee process. I’ve said it before: good policy takes time. It’s also true that legislators with too much time on their hands often come up with what I like to call well-intentioned bad ideas; usually in the form of additional regulations or a new or duplicative program. While some lofty policy goals were tossed around this fall, only the clean energy by 2040 legislation actually crossed the finish line. So let’s celebrate the early adjournment, as it maintains the status quo of protective laws we’ve previously advocated for and it safeguards MRA members from any additional well-intentioned bad ideas from percolating through the process until at least 2024.
With workforce participation lagging well below available job openings and a working environment that is more skillset specific, hiring in today’s market can be a tall order. This pressure on the job market is only heightened during the busy holiday season. We have heard from countless retailers who are struggling to find qualified employees; so much so that they run the risk of making hiring decisions without properly vetting candidates. This is a critical error that can result in employee criminal activity, expose you to civil liability, and cause your insurance premiums to increase. Avoiding missteps during the hiring process is far easier than having to deal with a troublesome employee who is already on the payroll, and the steps you should be taking are neither complicated nor cost prohibitive. A background check is the most comprehensive step you can take in the hiring process. A simple internet search will yield numerous entities that perform these services and, in the process, comply with all aspects of state and federal law. Before moving forward with a background check, however, be certain to let the prospective employee know that this will be done and get their written acknowledgement and consent. These reports generally cover all of the pertinent areas of concern including criminal and driving record, credit history, employment and education history, military records, civil cases they were involved in, and drug testing, if requested. Obtaining this level of information should provide a good picture of your candidate and whether they are a good fit with your business. While most employment relationships in Michigan are at-will, another good practice is the implementation of a probationary period. These often last three to six months and allow both employer and employee to determine whether the arrangement is working out. Additionally, eligibility for certain benefits, such as a 401k or paid time off, may not trigger until the completion of a probationary term, subject to certain legal and timing requirements. Probation should include regular reviews with the employee to discuss areas where improvement is needed. If using a probationary period, it is important to communicate that the employee’s at-will status is in effect both during probation and following its completion. While these are just two of many wise hiring practices, a small investment of time and money at the front-end of the hiring process can provide a high return on investment if you avoid just one bad hire!
4 | Michigan Retailer
CREATIVE COUNSEL
Finding the Right Hues ANDREA BITELY MRA Vice President, Communications and Marketing
The colors that are part of your company’s brand are integral to your marketing - and can influence people’s perceptions, emotions, and feelings about your brand. Here are several ways in which color impacts marketing materials: Brand Identity: Colors are often a crucial component of a brand’s identity and logo. Companies choose specific colors to represent their brand, and these colors become synonymous with their products or services. For example, the use of red in the Coca-Cola logo is instantly recognizable and strongly associated with the brand. Emotional Response: Colors can evoke emotions and moods in consumers. Marketers use this knowledge to connect with their target audience. For example, warm colors like red and orange can create a sense of urgency and excitement, while cool colors like blue and green can convey calmness and trust. Call to Action: In marketing materials, colors can be strategically used to guide consumers’ attention and encourage them to take action. Buttons or elements in a contrasting color, often called a ‘call to action’ color, can be used to prompt actions like clicking, buying, or signing up. Consistency and Recognition: Maintaining a consistent color scheme in all marketing materials, from websites to printed materials, helps build brand recognition and trust. Customers are more likely to remember and trust a brand when they see consistent use of colors and design elements.
DIVISION SPOTLIGHT
Michigan Retail Shoe
Dealers Fun fact: Michigan was the first state to organize a retail shoe trade association. The Michigan Retail Shoe Dealers’ Association held its first organizational meeting in 1905 with 70 charter members each paying dues of one dollar. The second annual meeting was held at the Light Guard Armory in Detroit, Sept. 4-6, 1906. The Michigan Shoe Association officially became a division of MRA in November 1956. Shoe division members are also members of the National Shoe Retailers Association. Learn about our other divisions:
Legibility and Readability: The contrast between text and background colors is critical for legibility. Marketing materials need to ensure that text is easy to read, and this often involves selecting colors with sufficient contrast. Seasonal and Trend Adaptation: Some brands update their color schemes seasonally or based on design trends to stay current and relevant. By understanding how colors affect people, we can create more compelling and effective advertising and branding campaigns that resonate with customers. Michigan Retailer | 5
THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING, ALL YEAR LONG With renewal, you continue your access to our array of business services. Scan the QR code to renew online.
Credit Card Processing Legislative Advocacy A Range of Insurance Options Buy Nearby and Shop Local Campaigns Shipping Discounts Free Labor Law Poster Information to Keep You Informed And More! 6 | Michigan Retailer
Take a fresh approach to shipping. As a member of MRA, you can save big!
MRA members can receive discounted shipping rates on eligible services. Sign up for the FedEx Advantage® discounts program for free to start saving on eligible services.
With the FedEx Advantage program, you’ll get:*
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FedEx Express® shipping
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It’s free to sign up using your FedEx account number, and there are no quotas or commitments. Typically, your FedEx discounts will be available 7 to 10 business days after you join the FedEx Advantage program.
To enroll, go to PartnerShip.com/MRA-FedEx
* FedEx shipping discounts are off standard list rates and cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Discounts are exclusive of any FedEx surcharges, premiums, minimums, accessorial charges, or special handling fees. Eligible services and discounts subject to change. For eligible FedEx® services and rates, please call 1.800.GoFedEx 1.800.463.3339. See the applicable FedEx Service Guide for terms and conditions of service offers and money-back guarantee programs.
Michigan Retailer | 7
A Century of Sweetness By: Shandra Martinez
or legions of longtime customers, visiting Marshall’s Fudge in Mackinaw City can be nostalgic. The aroma of the shop and taste of fudge brings back special memories of family and friends. Many share those memories as they buy their favorite flavor of fudge, says Lori Forhoff, who, with her husband, Patrick, now operates the business started by her grandfather. “We have such a following of loyal customers who say, ‘We came 8 | Michigan Retailer
here when my grandparents brought me here.’ I hear those stories,” Lori said. This year marks a major milestone for the third-generation Northern Michigan family business. It is celebrating a century of making fudge. Origins in 1923 Founder Jim Marshall got his start in the confection business
Dean Marshall flipping fudge. at Mackinac Island’s first candy shop, Murdick’s, in 1923. Over the years, he perfected the art of fudge-making and during the off-season traveled to events across Michigan to share his sweet creations. The Marshall family has deep ties to Mackinac Island, dating back to the early 1820s when Jim’s great-grandfather, William Anthony Marshall, was commissioned commander of Old Fort Mackinac. He was the Fort’s longest serving soldier. Jim Marshall made his own mark. He and his wife, Oradelle, along with their son Dean, opened their own candy store on Mackinac Island’s Main Street. Their store, Marshall’s Driftwood Fudge, quickly became a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike. But it wasn’t just Jim Marshall who made Marshall’s Fudge a success. Oradelle was a true innovator who developed new and exciting flavors that are still available at Marshall’s Fudge today. Expanding to the mainland In 1954, Jim and his family expanded their business by opening a second store, in St. Ignace, taking fudge to the mainland. By 1962, Marshall’s Fudge had expanded to six stores around the Straits area. In 1965, Marshall’s had a store on East Central Avenue in the heart of Mackinaw City. Marshall’s Fudge – the business’ only remaining brick and mortar storefront – is still on the same street. Dean inherited his love of fudge from his dad. When he married Jeannie, they worked together to continue building the family business. Running the fudge shop wasn’t his only job; he also was an accounting professor at Ferris State University. Their daughter, Lori, and her husband, Patrick, took over the business in 2007. The couple continues the family tradition of using only the freshest and most premium ingredients along with time-honored techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Patrick and Lori Frohoff “We use many of those same tools. We have tables in this store that are as old as the store when they moved into it originally back in the ‘60s,” Patrick said. The third generation has also been innovative, adding new flavors and sugar-free fudge to the menu. It’s also easy to order their fudge online, and Marshall’s offers corporate gift giving. Time-tested process Still, a visit to the shop is a treat for customers who can watch the fudge and candy being made by hand. It involves flipping and shaping the hot fudge on a marble table into loaves that are cut into half pound slices. The method makes creamy fudge. Patrick says his father-in-law taught him there are no shortcuts when it comes to following the Marshall recipe. “It’s pretty physical, but it’s enjoyable,” said Patrick. “You have customers who are mesmerized by the process. It’s fun because when you’re making candy, you’re talking to people. It’s not really a job.” As a young adult, Lori didn’t see a future for herself in the family business. She headed out to sunny Southern California, where she met Patrick and had a career as an elementary school teacher. The couple returned to Michigan every year on their vacations. When her parents mentioned in the early ‘90s they were thinking about retiring, Lori was surprised when Patrick suggested they take over the business. They don’t regret the decision. They’ve been supported by their membership in the Michigan Retailers Association, which provides resources ranging from workers’ compensation insurance to scholarships for members’ families. When there were stressful days, Lori remembers her mom telling her, “You just have to think to yourself, it’s just candy. Most people coming in here are really happy because they’re going to buy candy and it gives you instant happiness.”
By: Shandra Martinez In Detroit, Khali Sweeney’s Downtown Boxing Gym (DBG) is making a profound impact on the city’s children, providing them with opportunities and support he wished he had when he was growing up on the city’s East Side. Sweeney’s personal journey, from struggling with illiteracy and overcoming the false narrative that he’d be “dead or in jail by 21,” to teaching himself to read and opening a free afterschool program in 2007, is an inspiring story of resilience and determination. Though not a traditional retailer, DBG recently joined the Michigan Retailers Association to take advantage of workers’ compensation benefits for its 50-person staff. Jessica Hauser, the nonprofit organization’s executive director, emphasizes that the free out-of-school time program is academic-focused and driven by student voice. Students get a choice in their day-to-day activities, and they overwhelmingly choose science, technology, engineering, arts, math classes and so much more.
Khali Sweeney and Jessica Hauser it’s operating at capacity with a waiting list of more than 1,000 students. To meet the demand, DBG’s leaders are working to raise $50 million to fund a campus expansion, which will include a second building and increased capacity to serve more students.
Some of the program’s youths are exploring entrepreneurship at Eastern Market by launching a juice business using produce they grew over the summer.
The program’s remarkable success is evident through its 100% high school graduation rate and over a 90% college graduation rate. DBG’s participants consistently outperform their peers on international assessments.
“Boxing was truly just the hook to get the kids in the door that Khali really wanted to serve,” Hauser said. “From there, we create hyper-personalized support for each of our 250 students that come in about three days a week. Every kid is getting support that is tailored to exactly what they need, exactly what their interests are.”
“What these measurements tell us is that there’s significant transformation happening,” Hauser said. “There’s a huge focus here on creating a safe space to really let young people press on questions, dig deep on the narratives that are created for them by society. In our space, they can really unpack that and figure out who they are and who they are becoming.”
Plans for expansion The program is housed in a 27,500-square-foot facility, but 10 | Michigan Retailer
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $2 million research grant to Purdue University and the Downtown Boxing Gym to jointly study DBG’s STEAM lab program, which
has inspired 90% of participating students to pursue STEM careers. The longevity of the program is a crucial factor in its success, as consistent support makes a meaningful impact. The program even extends its support to the families of students, encouraging them to apply for staff positions when available.
Success brings support, accolades The program has a long list of financial supporters including foundations, corporations, private donors, and even some famous names like Eminem. The Library of Congress recently awarded the boxing gym the 2023 American Prize for “making a significant and measurable contribution to increasing literacy levels in the United States.” For the transformation he has brought to hundreds of students, Sweeney was honored as a Top 10 CNN Hero and received a Governor’s Service Award for Mentor of the Year. Hauser, who joined the organization 13 years ago, played a pivotal role in ensuring the program’s continuity when DBG was just getting off the ground and money was tight. Her dedication led her to leave her Ph.D. program and work with Sweeney full-time to make a significant impact. “I was like, this is way too special for you to lose momentum. This place cannot close,” she remembers telling Sweeney. “I knew nothing about nonprofits, but I knew I could get involved and help tell the world that something incredible is happening here. And the rest is history.” To learn more about DBG, visit dbgdetroit.org. Michigan Retailer | 11
how to
Attract New Business
in winter
months
By: Andrea Bitely, Vice President Communications and Marketing, Michigan Retailers Association
After the holiday decorations are stored away, the excitement of gift shopping wanes, and Michigan returns to its slate gray skies and dreary late January weather, the big question arises: how do you attract customers to your store? With sidewalk sales impractical during a Michigan winter, consider in-store events such as product demonstrations, workshops, or holiday-themed activities. Collaborating with local artists, musicians, or performers for live entertainment is also a great option. Ideas like displaying youth artwork, hosting a best cookies contest, or a competition for the Cutest Mutt in the Mittens could all be on the table for your winter plans. Highlighting winter-related products prominently in your displays and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with winter-themed decorations that utilize soft lighting, cozy textures, and seasonal scents can make customers feel more confident in their purchases. If you have extra inventory unlikely to move after Christmas, think about creating post-holiday bundles. Nothing says a cozy January like mulling spices, a cinnamon-scented candle, and other winter-specific items bundled together. These exclusive bundles, promoted online and through your store email list, can entice people to visit your store, tapping into aspirational buying—after a stressful December, who wouldn’t want the perfect bundle to unwind? Collaborating with fellow retailers is also key to winter success. Partnering with neighbors for a punch card program featuring a small giveaway or discount, or creating an experience connected to a trending movie, book, or other theme, can pull shoppers out
of their mid-winter shopping slump. Considering adding new products in the coming year? Invite your most loyal customers to your store outside regular hours to showcase new products and encourage them to bring a friend— creating a sense of exclusivity will generate excitement! Rewarding those who spent generously leading up to the holidays is also an opportunity to attract people. A receipt or proof of purchase from December could earn a shopper a small discount or a bonus gift with purchase when they return in January. Every effort to increase foot traffic in your store should be advertised, and what better way to do that than online? Make growing your social media presence a priority in January. Experiment with different post types—share photos, links, and ask your customers to like and share your posts. Explore if an e-newsletter, if you’ve been collecting email addresses, works for you. January and February pose challenges, but making small changes can make a significant difference.
REGULATORY RUNDOWN
Building Strong Partnerships with Michigan’s Liquor Retailers KRISTIN BELTZER, CHAIR Michigan Liquor Control Commission Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) recently celebrated its 90th anniversary serving the business needs of the state’s 23,194 retail licensees. Retail licensees are main contributors to the success of Michigan’s almost $2 billion beverage alcohol industry. Building strong relationships with retailers is vital toward future industry growth. We’re focused on direct communication, outreach, and customer service. This fall, the MLCC directors did site visits with licensed businesses, stakeholders, and industry associations to learn firsthand their needs, issues, and ideas. These visits also provide us with prime opportunities to educate people on the businessfriendly approach of the MLCC. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service through easy accessibility, expert knowledge, and timely responsiveness to current or prospective licensees. MLCC is making it easier for licensees to do business with us. We are launching the Sales, Inventory and Purchasing System or SIPS+ in early 2024. This customized system will replace MLCC’s existing almost 50-year-old system. SIPS+ will streamline operations by consolidating liquor registration, beer/wine registration, and sales, inventory, and purchasing of alcoholic beverages. The new platform will support all 23,000+ retail licensees; 13,000 spirit products; and more than 217,000 beer, wine, and mixed spirit drink product registrations. I find great fulfillment in assisting others to succeed in starting or growing their business. Prior to my appointment as an MLCC commissioner by Gov. Whitmer in 2022, I served as the director of gubernatorial appointments for Gov. Rick Snyder. I also served as executive vice president and chief marketing officer for the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce where I led the advocacy, events, and business development divisions. The MLCC’s newest commissioner, Hoon-Yung Hopgood of Richmond, was appointed to a four-year term by Gov. Whitmer in June 2023. He is the first Korean American to serve in the Michigan Legislature, serving in the Senate from 2011-18 and in the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2008. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan. On behalf of Commissioners Hopgood, Olshove, Gonzales, and Toma, and the entire staff at the MLCC, thank you licensed retailers for making 2023 another successful year. Happy holidays and best wishes for a bright and prosperous 2024. To learn more about the MLCC, go to www.michigan.gov/lcc. 14 | Michigan Retailer
Regulatory NEWS & TRENDS Michigan’s minimum wage increases to $10.33 on Jan. 1, 2024 On Jan. 1, 2024, Michigan’s minimum wage rate will increase from $10.10 to $10.33 per hour as set by Michigan’s Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act of 2018 which establishes the annual schedule of increases. Visit Michigan.gov/WageHour for more information. Effective Jan. 1, 2024: • The minimum hourly wage will increase to $10.33 per hour. • The 85% rate for minors aged 16 and 17 will increase to $8.78 per hour. • The tipped employee rate of hourly pay increases to $3.93 per hour. Laws with Feb. 13th effective dates: The following is a list of laws MRA has been tracking that were signed earlier this year without immediate effect. Laws will take effect on Feb. 13, 2024 (90 days after sine die). • Public Act 4 of 2023 Increases the Earned Income Tax Credit to match federal EITC qualifications, exempts pensions and some private sector matched retirement income from the income tax on other retirement income, and issues a $180 “inflation relief check” to all taxpayers. • P.A. 6 of 2023 Extends civil rights protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. • P.A. 8 of 2023 Repeals Michigan’s Right to Work law and restores union labor provisions in statute. • P.A. 14-15 of 2023 Exempts firearm safety devices including gun locks, gun safes, ear and eye protection from sales and use tax from Feb. 13Dec. 31, 2024. • P.A. 19 of 2023 Prohibits the sale of a firearm to an individual without first performing a background check. • P.A. 37 of 2023 Prohibits the sale of a firearm to an individual with an extreme risk order on file. • P.A. 104 of 2023 Allows state agencies to adopt rules or
Deadlines and regulations that are stricter than Federal standards. • P.A. 141-142 of 2023 Update Michigan’s sales and use taxes to align with a court case that adjusted the definition of which food items are considered “prepared” foods and taxable or “unprepared” and not taxable. Retailers under the 75% prepared foods sales threshold won’t see much impact.
2023 Holiday Shopping Stats Numerator’s 2023 Q4 Holiday Preview survey found three-fourths of shoppers plan to give gifts to celebrate the holidays. The top gifted items, with expected percentage purchased, were: • Gift Cards: 72% • Apparel: 54% • Toys/Games: 49% • Home Goods: 36% • Food: 36% • Pet Products: 31% • Books: 28% • Accessories: 27% • Spa or Beauty Products: 24% • Electronics: 23% • Jewelry: 22% • Experiences: 19% Concerns About Rising Prices According to the Food Industry Association’s U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends 2023 Holiday Shopping report, shoppers are concerned about rising prices, especially on groceries and gas. In addition, 76% of households with kids are concerned about the rising prices of food from grocery stores, and 56% of households with kids are concerned about holiday gifts. Fifty percent of holiday shoppers have expressed concerns about rising prices impacting holiday meals and celebrations. Forty-eight percent are worried about the impact on holiday gifts, and 40% of holiday shoppers are concerned about rising prices impacting their holiday travel costs. Household Spending on Groceries When it comes to household grocery spending, millennial households allocate $184 per week on groceries. Gen Z allocated the next highest amount at $169 per week, followed by Gen X with $155. Boomers allocate the lowest amount per week, $131.
Reminders
Jan.- Feb. 2024: Jan. 1 – Print New Yearly Sales & Use Tax License Jan. 1 – Liquor Licensees – Post Updated Age to Purchase Alcohol Sign Jan. 1 – Tobacco retailers – Post Updated Age to Purchase Tobacco Sign (optional from We Card) Jan. 1 – Minimum Wage increases to $10.33 an hour Jan. 1 – MRA scholarship program kicks off, apply through April 1 Jan. 15 – Open Enrollment for Individual Health Care Coverage deadline Jan. 31 – Wage and Tax Statements/Information Returns (W-2, 1099s) give to employees/contractors, submit to IRS/Treasury Feb. 1 – Post MIOSHA Form 300A – Summary of Work Related Injuries and Illnesses (if more than 11 employees) between Feb. 1 and April 30. Feb. 15 – Michigan Annual Report Due - Limited Liability Companies (LLC) and Professional Limited Liability with LARA Feb. 28 – Michigan Sales, Use and Withholding Tax Annual Return due Monthly reminders: Sales & Use Tax – Monthly & EFT – On or before the 20th day of the following month. Withholding Tax – Monthly & EFT – On or before the 20th day of the following month. Retailer’s Prepaid Wireless 911 Surcharge – within 30 days of the close of each month. Receipt of a complete Form 5012 is required regardless of payment method. Quarterly reminders: Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Estimated Returns and Payments (Jan. 15, April 15, July 15, Oct. 15) Sales & Use Tax – Quarterly & EFT – On or before the 20th day of the month following the quarter (Jan. 20, April 20, July 20, Oct. 20) Withholding Tax – Quarterly – On or before the 20th day of the month following the quarter (Jan. 20, April 20, July 20, Oct. 20) Unemployment Employer’s Quarterly Wage/Tax Reports (Jan. 25, April 25, July 25, Oct. 25)
Michigan Retailer | 15
Presenting the Winners of This Year’s
Buy Nearby Weekend
Coloring Contest Leading up to Buy Nearby Weekend, MRA hosted their very first coloring contest, open to all ages. Sheets were available to download and print online and were located in many member businesses.
The coloring page featured Buy Nearby Guy, celebrating his 10th birthday with cake and candles. Public voting took place from Oct. 8-Oct. 20 and the winners, broken down by age group, were chosen:
Ages 0-3
Ages 4-6
Ages 7-9
Baker P., 3
Charlotte C., 5
Blake S., 9
16 | Michigan Retailer
Ages 10-12
Ages 13 and up
Olivia O., 11
Gabriella Y., 13
“Thank you to all of the participants. The votes were close, as each entry was a creative masterpiece! You all made me look so great!” – Buy Nearby Guy
Michigan Retailer | 17
Michigan Retailers Association to Award
13 Retailers Foundation Scholarships
MRA’s annual scholarship competition will launch on Jan. 1 for the 2024-25 academic year. The Foundation will award 13 scholarships, each worth $3,500. Contributions to the MRA Foundation come from MRA members, directors and employees, and other donors. Those eligible to apply are high school seniors and college freshmen, sophomores and juniors who are: 1. Dependent children of owners of MRA member businesses, or of full-time employees of MRA member firms. The parentemployee must have been employed by a MRA member on, or before, Jan. 1, 2023. OR 2. Part-time employees of MRA member businesses who are full-time students. Part-time employees must have been employed by a MRA member firm on, or before, July 1, 2023.
Scholarship Amounts Increase to 13 The Foundation added a new Platinum Legacy Scholarship for the 2024-25 program year. The Jean L. Sarasin Platinum Legacy Scholarship brings the total number of scholarships awarded to 13. Sarasin is the retired Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Michigan Retailers Association and Retailers Insurance Company. She serves as Chair of the Retailers Insurance Company Board of Directors. The following contributors have helped establish our seven Platinum Legacy awards. Paul M. Felice and Al Kessel Memorial Platinum Legacy Scholarship
Paul M. Felice is former Michigan Grocers Association chairman and director and Kessel founded Kessel Food Markets in Saginaw and Flint.
Helen McCurry Platinum Legacy Scholarship (established by Joseph McCurry in honor of his late wife) Joseph is an executive with Credit Card Group, based in Georgia, previous executive with Dovetail Alliance and The High Point Group, retired Detroit district general manager for Sears, Roebuck and Co., and former staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force.
Jean L. Sarasin Platinum Legacy Scholarship
Jean is retired Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Michigan Retailers Association and Retailers Insurance Company.
D. Larry Sherman Platinum Legacy Scholarship
Operated Sherman’s Shoes in downtown Birmingham, founded by his parents, Fred E. and Lillian in 1925. 18 | Michigan Retailer
Raymond A. and Mildred C. Sobelton Platinum Legacy Scholarship (established by Peter Sobelton and sister and brother-inlaw, Barbara and Douglas Stranahan) Peter formerly owned Sundries Plus and Churchill’s Ltd., tobacco and gift stores in Birmingham.
Joseph Swanson Platinum Legacy Scholarship
Michigan Retailers Association will award six MRA Legacy Scholarships, along with the seven Platinum Legacy Scholarships. Their donors include: Bo Brines and Family
Owner of Little Forks Outfitters, located in Midland
Retired District Team Leader for Target Corp. and current consultant with Big Springs Enterprises in Naubinway.
Andrew Gemmen
Walsh Family Platinum Legacy Scholarship (established by Jim & Kathy Walsh)
Bill Golden
Jim is retired chief financial officer of Meijer, Inc. and taught finance at Aquinas College.
President and co-owner of Gemmen’s Home and Hardware in Hudsonville Co-president of Golden Shoes, a centennial retailer in Traverse City
James Hallan
Retired president and CEO of Michigan Retailers Association
Jeff and Doreen Joyce
Jeff operates Mieras Family Shoes, a centennial retailer located in Grand Rapids
Becky Beauchine Kulka
Owns Becky Beauchine Kulka Diamonds & Fine Jewelry located in Okemos
Dan Marshall, in honor of Willis W. and Mary Jane Marshall Dan is president of Marshall Music Company, based in Lansing
John Mayleben, in honor of his late wife, Linda Mayleben
John is the retired Senior Vice President technology and new product development at Michigan Retailers Association
MEMBER NEWS
Orin and Tina Mazzoni and Family
Orin Jr. is president of Orin Jewelers, Inc., a family-owned business in Northville
Larry and Gail Meyer
Larry is retired President and CEO of Michigan Retailers Association
Judy and Rodney Phillips
Rod owns Country Casuals in Petoskey
W. Bruce and Joyce M. Rogers
Bruce and Joyce owned Bartling’s, a women’s clothing store, in Traverse City from 1972 to 2001
Buy Nearby Weekend Winner Congratulations to The Fish Hook, in Leland, for winning a $50 gift card following Buy Nearby Weekend! 2023 participating MRA members were entered into a random drawing for the prize and The Fish Hook was selected as our winner. Thank you Buy Nearby supporters for participating in Buy Nearby Weekend!
Nathan Rosenfeld
Purchased Jacobson Stores, Inc. from the Jacobson family in 1939
Mark Schrag and Friends
Mark and wife Nancy owned and operated Seasons in Okemos
Kenneth A. and Margaret Schwark, established by their sons James, Tom and Michael Kenneth founded southeast Michigan’s Schwark Furniture store chain, Sycamore Hills Golf Club in Macomb Twp., and helped construct the Shelby Square shopping center in Shelby Twp.
Shoe Retailer of the Year Earlier this year, Jill Snyder, owner of Snyder Shoes, was named the 2023 Retailer of the Year by the National Shoe Retailers Association (NSRA). According to the NSRA, the award goes to a retailer who demonstrates leadership and integrity, is involved in their community, including charitable events, and has a clear vision for their business. Jill is Vice Chair on the NSRA Board of Directors. Snyder Shoes, with locations in Manistee and Ludington, was founded in 1938 by Jill’s grandfather-in-law.
Barb Stein
Retired owner of Great Northern Trading Co. in Rockford
Tom Ungrodt
President of TDU Consulting, LLC
Since its inception in 1999, the Foundation has awarded 625 scholarships to Michigan students, totaling almost $700,000. For a complete list of Foundation donors, visit Retailers.com/mrafoundation-contributors.
Start your application after the New Year. Deadline to apply: April 1, 2024.
Neiman’s Family Market Expands, Celebrates 40 Years Earlier this fall, Neiman’s Family Market officially opened their fourth location in Mayville. The company acquired Wingert’s Food Center from the Wingert family, who owned and operated the business for 91 years. Along with the expansion, the company celebrates their 40th anniversary this year. In July 1983, Hal and Jean Neiman moved their family to Alpena and opened Alpena IGA with their partners. In 1997 Hal and Jean bought out their partners and Neiman’s Family Market was born. Over the years the business expanded with locations in Tawas, St. Clair, and Clarkston.The Alpena store location closed in 2020. Today, all three of Hal and Jean’s children run the day-to-day operations of the business. Customer’s will still see Hal in the stores as he passes on the company culture to today’s employees.
Michigan Retailer | 19
MILESTONE MEMBERS
Thank you for your continued loyalty to Michigan Retailers Association! 25 YEARS
Frank’s Market, Grand Rapids Migala Rug & Tile LLC, St. Joseph
10 YEARS
Arendsen Jewelers, Lansing Cliff Keen Athletic, Ann Arbor GLCC Co., Paw Paw Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools, Traverse City Kelly Krueger DO PLLC, Novi
20 | Michigan Retailer
Michigan Millers Mutual Insurance Co., Lansing TR DeGroot MD PLLC, Grand Haven Voss Insurance Services Inc., Okemos
HELLO
NEW MEMBERS All of us at MRA look forward to serving you! Trevarrow Inc. dba Authorized Factory Service, Auburn Hills Eddie’s Bagel’s Inc. dba Elaine’s Bagel, Berkley Templeton Building Co., Birmingham Clearwater Farms Inc., Caro Premier Towing and Repair LLC, Cedar Springs Tombstone Brewery LLC, Chesterfield Green Branches Counseling Associates, Comstock Park Midnight Madness, Deckerville Transportation MI LLC, Deckerville Silver Sand Coach Bus, Deckerville Vilson LLC dba Valetino’s Diner, Detroit Mitaj LLC dba Valentino’s Deluxe Coney Island, Detroit Legends A&V LLC, Detroit Detroit Vintage Coffee LLC, Detroit Indian Village Marketplace, Detroit Forest Market, Detroit TNT Box Company Inc., Detroit Historical Preservation Society of Dundee, Dundee Haov Inc., Flint Style House Men’s Store, Grand Rapids First Medical LLC, Grand Rapids OneLove Logistics Inc., Grand Rapids VMDE, Grandville Inventory Recovery Systems Inc. dba Midwest Pvd Inc., Greenville Victoria Bistro LLC dba Kelly Brunch House, Harper Woods Clare County Transit Corp, Harrison Jerome Kahn dba Cedarbrook Trout Hatchery, Harrisville Camp Caraway Pet Retreat LLC, Haslett Pro Low Moving LLC, Holland Windmill Women LLC dba Totally Brewed Café & Coffee, Kalamazoo Rise Up Heating and Cooling, Lansing Templar Collective LLC, Madison Heights Pioneer Water Treatment, Marne
Lakeshore Photography, Inc., Marquette Schulz Family Trucking LLC, Mason Countryside Animal Care & Décor, Mason Thoms Solutions LLC, Mayville Americus Grill LLC, Milford 325 HTD Growers LLC dba Amber Waves Cannabis Co., Morenci The Harry Ollrich Post #4 The American Legion, Mount Clemens Muskegon Retailers Group LLC, Muskegon Sunshine Market Novi, Novi Baron Mechanical Service LLC, Omar Orchard Lake Mobil, Orchard Lake Abend Brothers Collision Inc., Ossineke Coldwater Towing & Recovery LLC, Quincy Repaired LLC, Rockford Mor Archery Targets Inc., Shelby Twp. Nu-Way Cleaning Services Inc., Shelby Twp. Ronald Stenfors dba Maple Lane Sports, Skandia Kaelan Inc. dba L C Pizza Store, Southfield MC Whips LLC, Sterling Heights TMN LLC dba Jacob’s Farm TC, Traverse City New China Fair Inc., Traverse City Northern Michigan Catholic Foundation, Traverse City Close Quarters Tactical LLC dba CQT, Utica Eastern Michigan Industries Inc., Warren Secrets Restaurant Group LLC dba Leason’s, Warren Smokers Only, Waterford South Lyon Flowers and Gifts, West Bloomfield Round Haus Pizza & Party Shop, Ypsilanti
Michigan Retailer | 21
FROM THE ARCHIVES Every now and then, we stumble upon gems from our archives. Michigan Retailer
Nov/Dec 1991
Vol. 16, No. 6
“ Yule Save Here” Campaign 1991–1996 Nearly mirroring the Buy Nearby campaign created in 2013, the 1991 holiday season push for shoppers to spend their money at local businesses, titled “Yule Save Here,” was no small feat. With mail-order catalogs at the height of their success, Michigan businesses were drastically seeing the effects of this newly popular type of shopping. And truly, the importance of shopping in-store remains as relevant as 30 years ago. In fact, if you swapped “mail-order” with “online order” in this article, you could entirely re-use it today. Retailers are flexible and their personal, customer service before and after the sale, can’t be met by an online robot simply taking your money. There are no wait or delivery times when you shop in-store, and Michigan’s retailers are always willing to find what you’re looking for. It’s front and center: Dollars spent here stay in our community! Support local shops and Keep Your Money in Michigan©!
Nominate a Michigan Centennial Retailer!
Retailers.com/memberbenefits/member-recognition
22 | Michigan Retailer
Scan the QR code to read the full article from 1991:
At SpartanNash, our flagship exclusive brand, Our Family, was developed more than 115 years ago; the oldest and most well-established in the industry. The number one reason for this success and longevity is our commitment to keeping the customer first - listening, responding, performing. 2500+ SKUs currently available throughout the entire store Product quality guarantee for consumers Exclusive marketing support, including industry leading social media solutions Multi-tiered community support program Comprehensive merchandising program Associate engagement plan
SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE
Contact Jim Gohsman (1-616-878-8088) | jim.gohsman@spartannash.com for more information.
603 South Washington Avenue Lansing, Michigan 48933
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