National Retail Federation’s Post

With all the discussion of late about declining trust in institutions, especially government, a really important consideration is the difference between wholesale and retail trust. “Wholesale trust” strike at the broadest social and political questions and over which individual officials—even presidents and prime ministers—often have little control due to the political environment, wider trust in institutions. But there’s also the concept of “retail trust,” concerning the direct relationships between individuals and the government programs that serve them. Here we have seen plenty of examples of how governments can improve retail trust. Check out our new book, Bridgebuilders, to learn more. Don Kettl khttps://lnkd.in/gM-dx5JW

Hi all. In my latest column published on my Substack, Just the Business, I take a look at how the recessionary environment is treating one of our best retailers.

Insightful panel session today at Altus Consulting with Peter Glancy, Richard Caldicott Adam Price and Sam Turner discussing the opportunities and challenges of the FCA’s proposals for closing the advice gap and how targeted support can help improve outcomes for consumers. #adviceguidanceboundary

The Square Mile is puzzled by the lack of retail investor interest in UK markets. The answer is straightforward: without promotion to retail investors, engagement and participation will remain low. Just as consumers need awareness of products, investors need awareness of markets and companies. It’s not about complex solutions or reform or taxes, but rather about raising awareness. #stocks #investors #ir #investorrelations #comms

Want to learn more about how you can support the 319 this holiday season? Check out this interview with KCRG featuring our very own Pam Logue, Member Support Specialist, who shares insights with Conner Woodruff on why this initiative is so important to the Economic Alliance year-round, but especially now. 🎥 Dive deeper into this fantastic coverage by clicking the link below! https://lnkd.in/gmGyb3nb

It’s been a challenging year to be a small business owner so understanding consumer needs has never been more important.   Together with the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), we sought to understand exactly what pressures small business owners are facing and how they’re dealing with them.   The latest findings from the ARA and American Express Small Retail Index paints a picture of resilience amongst small business owners as they seek new ways to move forward with support from industry, the corporate sector and government.    You can read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gG8Z2SMn. And for small business owners reading this, we’re behind you.

📢 We read with interest that in response to rising costs, some shop owners have taken a strategic step by reducing their opening hours. Ellie Baldry of Peasenhall General Store in Suffolk is closing her shop at 15:00 GMT instead of 17:00 during January, citing financial prudence as the driving force behind this decision. She emphasised that trade has been relatively slow, prompting a cost-saving approach. Ellie plans to review this measure in February, considering customer feedback and economic conditions. Mark Thomas from Emmett's Store is also closing an hour earlier at 16:00 instead of 17:00. He attributed this decision to the post-Christmas economic slowdown, coupled with health and safety considerations for his team. This move reflects the challenges small businesses face in the current economic climate. The government has pledged support to the small business and hospitality sector with initiatives such as business rates relief and alcohol duty rate freezes. As shop owners adapt to these financial challenges, it's clear that their focus remains on ensuring the sustainability of their businesses while navigating the complexities of today's economy. 🛍️ #BusinessNews #SmallBusiness #EconomicChallenges

Consolidation is looming.

In the Edinburgh Evening News this week, MSP Angus Robertson highlighted some key insights from our recently published Annual Review. As the recovery of Edinburgh continues, there is much to be positive about. However, many businesses are still navigating turbulence due to key decisions such as ending tax-free shopping and the need for fairer business rates. These issues will make or break many businesses. We will continue lobbying hard on these issues for all our levy-payers. https://lnkd.in/erf8Q3DB

La-Z-Boy Incorporated reported solid fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings. We exceeded expectations and outperformed the industry in a challenging market, driven by strong execution, as well as our intentional efforts to create consumer-centered experiences both online and in physical retail locations.   In an interview on CNBC, Melinda Whittington, La-Z-Boy Incorporated President and CEO, shared how we are continuing to aim high in FY25 and beyond, with quality and consumer preferences at the forefront of how we achieve continued growth in both our Retail and Wholesale segments.    Watch Melinda's interview to hear more about furniture and home buying trends that will shape the year ahead, and how the company is positioned for long-term success. #LZB #FY24 #HomeFurnishings #FurnitureTrends