RAN March 2024

March 2024

Retail Associates and Team Members — the Real Heroes

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N THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF EVERYDAY LIFE, AMIDST THE SHELVES STOCKED with goods and the flurry of transactions at the checkout counter, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact that retailers and their teams have on our communities. Yet, beyond the façade of business as usual, lies a narrative of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of our neighborhoods. If you really look at the cross section of retail in Nevada, it encompasses general merchandise, pharmacy, and grocery stores—fulfilling the essential needs of families while nurturing a skilled and educated workforce. Over my years as the president and CEO of the Retail Association of Nevada, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the pivotal role played by retail associates and team members in our communities.

Retailers are not merely purveyors of products;

By Mary Lau, RAN CEO

Mary Lau big or small, they are the unsung heroes of our communities, essential for their functioning and vitality. Contrary to the misconception that retail jobs are merely entry-level positions, the retail sector serves as a gateway to education and professional development for countless individuals. If you take the time to look at the incentives offered to work at various national retail chains, you will see a heavy investment in education opportunities for our team members. Many families can talk about how retail employment paid for most

of their college or training in a profession of their choice.

Many Main Street retailers are known for treating their employees like family, offering their staff flexible schedules and training in specialized fields.

Retail employment offers a pathway to upward mobility and personal growth. Retail opportunities never stop at just one job.

Beyond the confines of the store, retail associates Continued on page 2

INSIDE Celebrating Our Community Heroes..................2 Industry Updates.....................4 Beyond Dispensing Medication: Pharmacies are Public Health Educators..................................5 Choosing Leaders in a Polarized Era......................8 National Association of Chain Drug Stores Releases State-by-State Data Underscoring America’s Support for Access to Pharmacist Provided Care...........................9

Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org

Celebrating Our Community Heroes: The Vital Impact of Grocers, Pharmacists, and Retail Workers

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N OUR COMMUNITIES, WHERE EVERY PERSON PLAYS a unique role, there’s a special group of heroes who embody hard work and dedication: grocers, pharmacists, and retail workers. These folks are the backbone of our daily lives, making sure we have everything we need, and RAN is proud to be a voice for them in our legislative process.

Grocers play an indispensable role far beyond the simple act of selling food. They stand as the unsung heroes safeguarding the health and welfare

By Bryan Wachter

of our communities.

By ensuring that our families have access to the essential nourishment they need, grocers demonstrate unwavering commitment, especially during challenging times. Their ability to maintain operations and keep shelves stocked under any circumstance highlights their strength and resilience. This dedication not only keeps our daily lives running smoothly but also underscores the vital role they play in sustaining the community’s well-being.

Bryan Wachter Grocers do more than provide food; they offer stability, support, and care, making them fundamental to our lives.

Pharmacists occupy a crucial frontline position

in the healthcare landscape, offering far more than mere prescription services.

They serve as a bridge to understanding complex healthcare information, providing personalized advice and support with empathy and expertise.

Their role extends beyond transactional interactions; they are trusted advisors, helping navigate the often overwhelming world of healthcare. By offering consultations, medication management advice, and preventive care information, pharmacists contribute significantly to the overall health and well-being Continued on next page

Retail Associates and Team Members Continued from page 1 and team members are deeply committed to serving their communities.

Whenever there is a crisis, a retail employee is there.

From natural disasters to public health emergencies, these frontline workers continue to ensure access to essential goods and services, often braving adverse conditions and extended hours to meet the needs of their community. Their 2

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unwavering dedication and selflessness exemplify the true essence of community spirit.

Through initiatives like volunteerism, mentorship programs, and community partnerships, our retailers extend their impact far beyond the aisles. Sometimes it is as simple as team uniforms

sponsored by a company and associates and team members coaching the games and being there for the kids. Other times it may be food drives or even disaster relief efforts for places outside of Nevada or even the United States, but volunteers make the difference.

Without our retail associates and team members, our

communities would not function. They open their doors to our community every day, supplying food, medication, and the many products necessary in our daily lives, but the core of who works in retail does not show when they put on their “uniform”; it shows up in who they are as themselves. They are your neighbors and your community. ■

www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada

Celebrating Our Community Heroes Continued from previous page

of individuals. Their commitment to patient care and their contribution to the healthcare system make them indispensable allies in our pursuit of health.

Retail workers are the cornerstone of every shopping experience and embody the spirit of customer service, often going the extra mile to ensure that every shopping trip is pleasant and fulfilling. Their hard work and dedication are evident as they help customers navigate stores, offer recommendations, and manage transactions with a smile. The friendly interaction and helpfulness the state legislature, our through thoughtful of retail workers not goal is to make sure their policies that recognize only enhance our voices are heard, their their importance to our shopping experiences needs are met, and their collective health and but also contribute to invaluable contributions happiness. a sense of community are celebrated. We are Our grocers, and connection. Their here to fight for policies pharmacists, and retail commitment to providing that protect their rights workers embody the very excellent service does not and acknowledge their essence of community just make our purchases vital role in our society. spirit and resilience. They smoother; it enriches our Advocacy work is more serve as the backbone of daily lives and “Grocers play an indispensable role far beyond brings a touch of joy and ease the simple act of selling food. They stand to our routines. as the unsung heroes safeguarding the health RAN and welfare of our communities.” is deeply committed to standing than just passing laws; it’s our daily lives, providing up for these essential about building a culture essential services with pillars of our community of gratitude and support dedication and a sense and making sure their for those who serve our of duty that often hard work and dedication communities every day. It’s goes unnoticed. Their are recognized and about ensuring that the roles transcend mere appreciated, especially industries these heroes are transactions; they are in the political realm. At part of are also protected the custodians of our

health, well-being, and satisfaction. Especially in times of crisis, their remarkable character shines through, as they continue to offer their services with unwavering commitment. This steadfast dedication under challenging circumstances highlights not only their resilience but also their importance in keeping the fabric of our communities intact.

They do more than just work in their respective fields; they inspire, support, and strengthen the bonds within our communities, proving themselves to be the true heartbeat that keeps us all moving forward together. ■

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Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org

Industry Updates VALENTINE’S DAY SPENDING TO HIT RECORD $14.2 BILLION The National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics predict that spending on significant others for Valentine’s Day will reach a new high of $14.2 billion.

According to their survey, top gifts include candy, cards, flowers, and jewelry, with jewelry spending expected to hit $6.4 billion.

Over half of consumers plan to celebrate, with online shopping being the most popular choice.

Additionally, gifts of experience are gaining popularity, with about one-third of consumers planning to give them this year. Overall, consumers plan on spending a total of $25.8 billion to celebrate Valentine’s Day, on par with last year’s spending and the third highest in the survey’s history.

Even among those not celebrating Valentine’s Day, many still plan to mark the occasion in some way, whether by treating themselves or spending time with loved ones.

PHARMACIES URGE CONGRESS TO FINISH WORK ON PBM REFORMS IN MEDICARE AND MEDICAID Leading pharmacy and retail associations, including the National 4

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Association of Chain Drug Stores and FMI – The Food Industry Association, have called on the U.S. Congress to swiftly enact reforms targeting pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to lower prescription drug costs and enhance healthcare access.

Their appeal emphasizes the need for bipartisan support to implement critical changes in Medicare and Medicaid, highlighting ongoing challenges like underreimbursement by PBMs, which jeopardize pharmacy sustainability and patient care. The proposed reforms focus on ensuring fair payment in Medicaid-managed care, defining reasonable Medicare Part D contract terms, and establishing transparent pharmacy quality measures.

This push for legislative action reflects widespread concern over practices that inflate drug prices, force pharmacy closures, and limit patient choice, urging immediate intervention to protect Americans and the healthcare system.

FMI SUBMITS COMMENTS ON PROPOSED FOOD WASTE NATIONAL STRATEGY The Food Industry Association (FMI) provided critical feedback to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on its Draft National Strategy for

Reducing Food Loss and Waste, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies across the food supply chain.

FMI’s Vice President Andy Harig praised the initiative for promoting food donation and urged for the development of infrastructure to support increased demand for food donations.

FMI highlighted the importance of enhancing transportation logistics and fostering collaboration between stakeholders in the food industry. Additionally, FMI supported the strategy’s focus on consumer education to increase awareness and adoption of food waste reduction practices, suggesting the customization of campaigns at the community level.

Harig also stressed the necessity of improving metrics for food waste measurement, acknowledging the challenges faced by small and midsized companies in tracking waste and calling for incentivesbased approaches to encourage data collection and reporting across the supply chain.

NRF COMMENDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE TAX RELIEF FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES AND WORKERS ACT The National Retail Federation (NRF) expressed strong support for the passage of the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act (H.R. 7024) by the U.S. House of Representatives, highlighting the bill’s potential to stimulate economic growth through the restoration of progrowth policies. David French, NRF’s Senior Vice President of Government Relations, praised the bipartisan effort for its focus on immediate expensing of research and development, full expensing for equipment and technology purchases, and a more rational business interest deduction. These measures are expected to drive domestic investment, encourage innovation, and create job opportunities.

The NRF believes that the legislation will allow retailers to upgrade their operations, better respond to consumer demands, and maintain competitiveness. Urging the Senate to swiftly pass the bill, the NRF, alongside 35 state retail associations, emphasized their commitment to advocating for policies that support the retail sector’s growth and prosperity. ■

www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada

Beyond Dispensing Medication: Pharmacies are Public Health Educators

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N THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITIES, PHARMACIES stand as unsung heroes in the public health landscape.

Traditionally viewed as mere dispensers of medication, pharmacies have significantly evolved, taking on a pivotal role in health education and preventive care.

This transformation has not only redefined their contribution to public health but also underscored their importance as accessible, reliable sources of health information and services.

At the forefront of this evolution is the role of pharmacists. Once confined to the back of the store, meticulously filling prescriptions, today’s pharmacists have stepped into the limelight as approachable healthcare providers. They are on the front lines, offering expert advice, administering vaccinations, and conducting health screenings. This shift is pivotal, especially in underserved communities where access to primary care physicians may be limited.

Pharmacies have become accessible healthcare destinations, where advice and assistance are available

By Liz MacMenamin

without an appointment.

The expansion of services offered by pharmacies is remarkable. Vaccination programs, once the sole purview of doctors’ offices, are now a staple of pharmacy care. From flu shots to COVID-19 vaccines, pharmacies have played a crucial role in boosting vaccination rates and providing vital information about vaccine safety and efficacy. The trust and convenience they offer have made pharmacies key players in public health campaigns, significantly impacting community health outcomes.

Moreover, pharmacies have embraced their role in health screenings and chronic disease management. Many now offer blood pressure checks, diabetes monitoring, and cholesterol screenings, often free of charge. These services not only aid in early detection of health issues but also promote ongoing management of chronic conditions, empowering individuals to take charge of their health. Through these initiatives, pharmacies are closing the gap in the healthcare system, ensuring that vital health services are accessible to all.

Liz MacMenamin Education and awareness programs run by pharmacies further exemplify their commitment to public health. By hosting seminars and providing literature on topics ranging from nutrition to medication management, pharmacies are educating the public on health and wellness. This proactive approach to health education is especially important in today’s information-rich age, where misinformation can spread rapidly. Pharmacists, with their expertise and trustworthiness, serve as beacons of accurate and actionable health information.

The role of pharmacies extends beyond individual health to public safety.

Many have implemented drug take-back programs

to combat the opioid crisis, providing a safe way to dispose of unused medications. Others have introduced initiatives to address specific community health needs, such as naloxone distribution programs to prevent opioid overdoses. These efforts highlight pharmacies’ dedication to not just health but also the well-being and safety of the communities they serve.

The modern pharmacy is a far cry from its humble beginnings. As public health educators, pharmacies and pharmacists are playing an increasingly vital role in our healthcare system. They offer a blend of convenience, accessibility, and expertise that is unparalleled in the healthcare landscape. By expanding their services to include vaccinations, health screenings, and educational programs, pharmacies are not just complementing the traditional healthcare system; they are redefining it.

They are community heroes, standing on the front lines of public health education, prevention, and wellness, making a profound impact on the health and well-being of communities across the nation. ■

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Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org

NIKKI HALEY LOSES NEVADA REPUBLICAN PRIMARY TO ‘NONE OF THESE CANDIDATES’ In Nevada’s symbolic Republican presidential primary, Nikki Haley faced a significant setback as the majority of GOP voters chose the “none of these candidates” option, overshadowing her campaign against Donald Trump, who did not participate in this non-delegate awarding primary. Despite the lack of impact on the nomination race, this outcome marked a notable embarrassment for Haley, who aimed to present herself as a serious contender against Trump. Her loss to “none of these candidates” is unprecedented since Nevada introduced this option in 1975.

Haley’s strategy involved bypassing Nevada to focus on more favorable states like South Carolina, dismissing Nevada’s results as inconsequential due to its perceived bias towards Trump.

Meanwhile, Trump humorously anticipated Haley’s rationalization of the results, and Nevada’s Governor Joe Lombardo, 6

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Nevada News alongside several voters, expressed their preference for “none of these candidates,” highlighting a broad disinterest in Haley’s candidacy within the state. Associated Press TURNOUT IS SPARSE IN NEVADA PRIMARY CONTESTS WHERE VOTERS HAVE FEW CHOICES ON THE BALLOT Nevada’s presidential primary witnessed low voter turnout, influenced by factors like poor weather, the Super Bowl, and confusion over the Republican voting process, as Donald Trump was not on the ballot and the GOP focused on a subsequent caucus. The dual voting options for Republicans led to a preference for “None of These Candidates” by some, indicating a split in voter engagement strategies.

Despite this, Democrats saw promising early and mail-in voting figures as a positive sign for organizational strength ahead of the general election. The transition from caucuses to a primary system aimed to simplify voting but faced challenges in drawing significant voter participation in this cycle.

NBC News

BIDEN HIGHLIGHTS ECONOMIC SUCCESSES AND GENERAL ELECTION THEMES IN LAS VEGAS RALLY Ahead of the Nevada primary, President Joe Biden shifted focus to the general election, using a rally in Las Vegas to draw sharp contrasts with former President Donald Trump.

Speaking to a crowd of about 200, Biden touted his administration’s economic achievements and legislative wins while criticizing Trump’s rhetoric and policies.

With the primary expected to be a victory for Biden, the rally served as a platform to rally his base and highlight key themes for the upcoming general election. Biden’s emphasis on issues such as healthcare, immigration, and racial justice underscored the stakes of the broader political landscape as he gears up for a showdown with Trump.

Nevada Independent

LOMBARDO JOINS 15 OTHER GOVERNORS URGING BIDEN TO RECONSIDER EV MANDATE Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo is among a group of 16

Republican Governors urging the Biden administration to reconsider its electric vehicle (EV) mandate.

The mandate currently requires two-thirds of vehicles to be electric battery-powered by 2032 nationwide.

The Governors are advocating for consumer choice in vehicle selection and express concerns about government mandates penalizing retailers and imposing vehicles on consumers. They also highlight infrastructure challenges and national security implications, particularly regarding China’s dominance in EV production.

KOLO TV OAKLAND A’S DONATED $112K TO NEVADA LAWMAKERS FOLLOWING $380M DEAL After securing a $380 million deal from the Nevada State Legislature, the Oakland A’s, also known as the Athletics Investment Group, contributed at least $112,000 to state and local lawmakers.

These contributions were revealed through campaign finance reports covering the Continued on page 11

www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada

RETAILERS BATTLE RISING RETURN FRAUD Retail return fraud is on the rise as more consumers take advantage of lenient online return policies, costing retailers an estimated $101 billion in fraudulent returns last year.

Common tactics include returning different items than purchased, claiming non-delivery, and shipping empty boxes or stolen goods back. Retailers, facing increased costs and concerns over fraud, are tightening return policies and utilizing technology like AI to personalize returns. However, this shift also affects honest shoppers, as companies strive to balance customer satisfaction with minimizing fraud and abuse.

CNBC TARGET AND WALGREENS COMBAT RETAIL THEFT WITH NEW PARTNER Target and Walgreens are teaming up with Alto, a service aimed at curbing theft in stores through a blend of technology and community partnerships.

The rise of self-checkout has inadvertently contributed to retail theft, with data showing an increase in unscanned items left in shopping carts. This trend has prompted retailers to

National News seek innovative solutions to address the issue.

Alto works with retailers, law enforcement, and government agencies to combat theft both at the store level and within communities. While retail crime rates vary by region, Alto CEO Cristian Lopez emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between actual incidents and reported ones. With a focus on protecting employees and customers, retailers like Target and Walgreens are investing in strategies to mitigate theft and enhance store security.

The Street DIVERSE PRODUCE TRENDS SHAPING GROCERY AISLES IN 2024 U.S. shoppers continue to drive diversity and innovation in grocery store produce aisles, seeking health, convenience, and culinary adventure. Exotic fruits and vegetables, particularly Asian varieties like purple sweet potatoes and chayote, are gaining popularity, encouraging experimentation in home kitchens. Consumers are drawn to brightly colored produce for visual appeal, while convenience remains paramount, with demand for fresh-cut vegetables and snacking options.

Notable trends include

the rising popularity of mini produce and the influence of social media on consumer choices.

Controlled environment agriculture and organic products are also on the rise, reflecting growing interest in sustainability and natural farming practices. Amidst these trends, packaging innovations focus on sustainability and consumer engagement, with retailers playing a vital role in promoting and merchandising fresh produce to enhance sales.

The Packer PHARMACY RETAIL TRENDS 2024 In 2024, pharmacy retailers face ongoing challenges due to labor shortages and changing consumer preferences, although the economy is expected to avoid a recession. Labor pressures persist despite potential improvements in the job market, with major chains like CVS and Walgreens experiencing unrest. Retail pharmacies continue to expand healthcare services, and legislative efforts aim to increase transparency in drug pricing. Store closures and optimizations reshape the industry’s landscape.

Overall, 2024 brings transformative changes to pharmacy retail, driven

by economic conditions, labor dynamics, healthcare service expansion, and legislative reforms.

Drug Store News WALMART UNVEILS 5-YEAR STORE EXPANSION PLANS Walmart announced its intention to build or convert over 150 stores across the U.S. in the next five years, a significant shift from its previous strategy of slowing new store openings. This initiative includes remodeling existing stores to enhance layout, product selection, and customer service.

With the first two new stores set to open soon, Walmart aims to better serve customers and strengthen its presence in local communities while leveraging physical stores for online order fulfillment.

ABC News THE POWER OF STORE-WITHIN-ASTORE CONCEPTS Store-within-a-store (SWAS) concepts are increasingly popular among retailers like Target and Lowe’s, providing an avenue for smaller brands to showcase their products within larger stores. This model, reminiscent of department stores, not only offers customers a more diverse Continued on page 11

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Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org

Choosing Leaders in a Polarized Era: The Economic Stakes of Negative Partisanship

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N TODAY’S POLITICAL LANDSCAPE, NEGATIVE PARTISANSHIP HAS emerged as a driving force in how voters make decisions.

Unlike traditional partisanship, where loyalty to one’s party is driven by alignment with its policies or ideologies, negative partisanship is fueled by opposition and disdain for the opposing party. This phenomenon can significantly influence the economic environment, making it crucial to carefully vet candidates on their positions rather than party alone, particularly their views on business.

UNDERSTANDING NEGATIVE PARTISANSHIP Negative partisanship is the phenomenon where an individual’s political identity and decisions are shaped more by opposition to the other party than by allegiance to their own. This means that a voter’s motivation to support their party comes not from a strong belief in its policies but from a deep-seated aversion to the opposing party. This trend has been rising, creating a political environment where 8

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RAN Staff Report

divisions are deepened, and the focus often shifts from constructive policy-making to oppositional strategies.

THE NON-PARTISAN NATURE OF ECONOMIC SUCCESS Economic success does not adhere to party lines. A thriving business sector benefits everyone, irrespective of their political affiliations. Policies that encourage economic growth, innovation, and fair competition are crucial for a healthy economy. This is why it’s imperative for voters and policymakers alike to advocate for a businessfriendly environment that is based on sound economic principles rather than partisan ideology.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A BALANCED APPROACH A balanced approach to business policies acknowledges the need for regulations that protect workers, consumers, and the environment, while also recognizing that businesses need the freedom to innovate, expand, and compete effectively in the global market. It’s about

finding the middle ground where regulations are sensible and taxation is fair, enabling businesses to thrive while ensuring the public good.

THE IMPORTANCE OF VETTING CANDIDATES In a climate dominated by negative partisanship, the importance of vetting political candidates thoroughly cannot be overstated—especially their positions on business.

Business policies influence job creation, economic growth, and the overall health of the national and local economies. Candidates with a sound understanding of business, regardless of political affiliation, can formulate policies that foster an environment conducive to growth, innovation, and sustainability.

Conversely, candidates who are chosen based on their oppositional stance rather than a constructive vision for economic policy can hinder business development and economic progress.

EDUCATING AND ENGAGING WITH NONBUSINESS BACKGROUND CANDIDATES For any candidates

lacking direct business experience, it’s essential to engage in a constructive dialogue. Educating these candidates on the nuances of economic and business policy, the challenges faced by businesses big and small, and the potential for innovative policy solutions can bridge knowledge gaps. This process can turn perceived weaknesses into strengths, ensuring that candidates, regardless of their background, can make informed decisions that positively impact the economy.

Negative partisanship may be shaping our political decisions, but the future of our economy rests on the shoulders of those we choose to lead. By vetting candidates thoroughly, especially on their views about business, voters can make informed decisions that go beyond partisan opposition and contribute to a thriving, robust economy.

The importance of this vetting process cannot be overstated; it is a critical step towards fostering a political environment where growth, innovation, and sustainability are at the forefront of policymaking. ■

www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada

National Association of Chain Drug Stores Releases State-by-State Data Underscoring America’s Support for Access to Pharmacist Provided Care

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HE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CHAIN DRUG STORES (NACDS) has released state-specific data sheets, revealing strong support among U.S. adults for pharmacist-provided services, including ongoing access to vaccinations, testing, and treatment for common conditions. These sheets, which cover all 50 states, Washington, DC, and national sentiments, are based on a poll

by Morning Consult, showing broad backing for the permanence of pharmacy services expanded during COVID-19.

Notably, 81% of U.S. adults emphasize the need for updated state policies to maintain access to these pharmacy services, with 85% acknowledging the ease of accessing pharmacists. Moreover,

RAN Staff Report

there’s significant support (71%) for ensuring that pharmacists are adequately reimbursed by both private and government insurers for these services.

In Nevada, a significant majority of adults support the expanded role of pharmacists in healthcare, particularly for testing and treating common illnesses and managing chronic diseases. This includes support for permanent access to services that were expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as vaccinations, testing, and treatment for common conditions.

There’s also a strong backing for pharmacists to be reimbursed by insurance for these services. This reflects a broader desire to integrate pharmacists more deeply into the healthcare delivery

system, ensuring easy access to care and fair compensation for services provided.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  A majority of adults, including 78% of adults in Nevada believe it’s important for their state to update its policies to ensure that patients permanently have the same access to pharmacy vaccination, testing, and treatment services that were available during the COVID-19 pandemic.  86% of adults in Nevada say pharmacists are easy to access, the highest percentage of the tested options.  Adults in Nevada also wish to see pharmacists reimbursed by insurers for providing care: 70% support private and government insurers adequately paying pharmacists for testing and initiating treatment in states where pharmacists

are authorized to do so.  When simple tests exist to help identify common conditions, adults in Nevada support pharmacists providing care for the following if a patient tests positive: • COVID-19: 71% • Strep Throat: 74% • Flu: 76% • UTI: 71% METHODOLOGY: This nationwide poll was conducted online from October 25-30, 2023 among a sample of 10,031 adults. State-level results are estimated by a multi-level regression and post-stratification (MRP) model weighted by age, race/ethnicity, gender, and educational attainment within each state.

Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 1 percentage point. ■

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Retail Association of Nevada • www.rannv.org

Important Information for SIG Members NRS requires all existing members of a self-insured group to be notified of all new members.

NRNSIG new members are listed below.

1 MGMT Group LLC Farm Basket 2 dba Farm Basket Farm Basket 3 dba Farm Basket Sun King LLC NRNSIG members who wish to register a negative vote on a new group member, please write NRNSIG at 575 S. Saliman Road, Carson City, NV 89701, indicating which member and the reason(s) for the negative vote.

The Ides of March

You have probably heard of the Ides of March because it is the day Roman statesman Julius Caesar was assassinated. The immortal words “Beware the Ides of March” are uttered in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar to the leader by a fortune-teller.

Other bad things have happened on March 15, of course, but there’s probably no reason to beware March’s Ides more than the Ides of any other month.

“Workers’ comp that works for you” Retail Association of Nevada

Membership Information: Find out more about RAN’s self insured group. Call Pro Group, 800-859-3177, or the RAN office at 775-882-1700.

Don’t forget to check out our website, www.RANNV.org.

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www.rannv.org • Retail Association of Nevada

NRF State of Retail & the Consumer 2024

March 20, 2024 — Free virtual event — 3/20/2024 12:00 PM EDT NRF’s State of Retail & the Consumer will explore the health of American consumers and the retail industry with leaders including NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay, NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz, Ph.D., retail executives from major brands, prominent economists and consumer experts.

Nevada News Continued from page 6 period from October 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, with all donations made after the passage of the public assistance package. Notably, the baseball team donated to 41 out of 63 members of the Nevada State Legislature, including some who opposed the deal.

Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro and Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager received the maximum contribution of $10,000 each. The

Athletics also donated to Clark County Commissioners, as part of the proposed baseball stadium project falls under the county’s jurisdiction.

Nevada Current LOMBARDO ENDORSES TRUMP, DECLARES REPUBLICAN NOMINATION RACE OVER Governor Joe Lombardo has officially endorsed former President

Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, declaring “the race is over” in an interview with the Nevada Independent.

Lombardo, who had previously indicated he might stay neutral in the contest, announced his endorsement while stating his intention to caucus for Trump in the state’s Republican caucuses. Despite ongoing indictments and controversies surrounding Trump’s

efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, Lombardo expressed confidence in Trump’s innocence until proven guilty. The endorsement comes amid criticisms of the Nevada State Republican Party’s handling of the presidential caucus, with accusations of favoritism towards Trump and confusion among voters regarding the caucus and primary schedules.

Nevada Current

leadership of COO Justin Tichy, has transformed its stores into engagementfocused spaces, leveraging a shared love of animals among its employees to enhance the customer experience. By offering a diverse range of services and partnerships, Petco has differentiated itself in the competitive pet sector. Initiatives such as Vetco pet hospitals,

mobile clinics, and collaborations with brands like Marriott and Lowe’s have expanded Petco’s reach and solidified its position as “The Health + Wellness Co.” These efforts, combined with a focus on employee training and development, continue to drive customer loyalty and differentiate Petco in the retail landscape.

Retail Touch Points

National News Continued from page 7 shopping experience but also allows partnering brands to reach new audiences and expand their market presence.

However, successful SWAS partnerships require careful consideration of factors such as product alignment, performance analysis, partnership length, and effective promotion through local inventory ads. By leveraging SWAS

partnerships effectively, brands can enhance their visibility, boost sales, and cultivate fruitful business relationships in the competitive retail landscape.

RIS News PETCO’S UNIQUE PARTNERSHIPS DRIVE CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT Petco, under the

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Retail Association of Nevada

Nevada News Nevada News is published by the Retail Association of Nevada, a nonpartisan, nonprofit corporation founded in 1969 representing the Retail Community, the Chain Drug Council and the Grocery Industry Council.

Mary F. Lau President/CEO Bryan Wachter Senior Vice President Elizabeth MacMenamin Vice President of Government Affairs Piper Brown Vice President, Finance and Administration Megan Bedera Editor Sue Arzillo, Alphabet Soup Inc. Newsletter Design & Layout

With No Sign of Recession, NRF Economist Says Labor Market and Interest Rates Will Play Major Role in 2024

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FTER A BETTER-THANEXPECTED PERFORMANCE IN 2023, what happens with the economy in 2024 could depend largely on the labor market and what the Federal Reserve does with interest rates, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said today.

“Federal Reserve officials have tough policy choices ahead as they

National Retail Federation

decide on what to do and when,” Kleinhenz said.

“There is still a risk that keeping rates too high could curb the economy’s momentum more than necessary. Yet if they lower rates too soon, it could allow the economy to re-inflate and make it harder to contain inflation pressures.”

“I remain of the view that consumer spending will continue to grow, but at a rate slightly below

overall GDP growth,” Kleinhenz said. “Consumers were in decent shape heading into the holiday season, but the labor markets, while unlikely to unravel, do look likely to cool, which would impact consumer expectations and, in turn, affect spending decisions.”

The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index – the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation –

was at 2.6% year over year in December, down “meaningfully” from 5.5% at the beginning of the year. January retail sales haven’t been reported yet, but consumer sentiment was at its highest level in nearly three years as shoppers appeared to be more upbeat about the economy, income and employment. ■