The National Retail Federation (NRF) recently announced that it formed a council to “engage, organize, and energize” owners of small retail businesses. 

The Small Business Retail Council will be helmed by two co-chairs, who will lead a five- to seven-member steering committee that will “identify priorities, propose strategies and solutions, and participate in the coordination of grassroots advocacy.” Independent retailers from around the country will serve as members on the council.

Independent shops in downtown Fredericksburg, Md. (JCK)

“We are bringing together some of the retail sector’s best small business leaders to build upon their integral role in drafting and shaping public policy,” NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said in the same statement. “Working with our state retail association partners, we hope to amplify the voice of small retailers in advancing the retail community’s agenda. The Small Business Retail Council will enhance and strengthen the partnership between small business owners and NRF, and optimize industry engagement on our common goals.”

The NRF made the announcement at its annual Retail Advocates Summit last week in Washington, D.C. Hot-button issues at the summit included leveling the sales tax playing field between brick-and-mortar retailers and online sellers, effective patent reform legislation, and continued reforms to the swipe-fees structure.

Emili Vesilind

JCK Senior Editor