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Greetings!
With consumers examining every expenditure, many retailers are experiencing a slowdown in sales volume. Actions to compensate by reducing inventory or cutting expenses may preserve profitability, but you can only do so much. Increasing sales volume is the primary goal of the Retail Alliance buy local campaign that will launch in conjunction with National Independents Week July 1-7. The campaign, dubbed "Go Where the Locals Shop," is designed to encourage consumers to spend their dollars with small, local, independent businesses. The compelling argument for doing so is clear: 68% of every dollar spent with a local business stays in the community, compared with just 45% spent with national chains. The campaign will be supported with window clings, cash register displays, supporting news media coverage, ad co-ops and electronic public service announcements. Expect to receive additional campaign information soon, or visit the Retail Alliance website and click on the "Go Where the Locals Shop" icon. |
Goodwill Gives Itself a Makeover
 Goodwill is changing its image to entice customers who shop at high-end secondhand shops or seek out department store bargains. The nonprofit is highlighting some big-name labels such as Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg in some of its stores.
The New York Times has the fully story
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Abercrombie & Fitch Not Planning on Lowering Prices
 Abercrombie & Fitch will push ahead with its sales strategy and doesn't plan to lower its prices, despite the economic downturn. The CEO said the company can maintain its brand image because of its "strong cash position."
The Columbus Dispatch has the full story
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Legislative Scoreboard
PRIMARY ELECTION Races across the state were held on June 9 to determine the Democratic candidates for the November election Governor and Lieutenant Governor as well as the candidates for specific districts across Hampton Roads: + Senator Creigh Deeds defeated Terry McAuliffe and Brian Moran for the Democratic candidate for governor. His opponent is former Attorney General Bob McDonnell.
+ Jody Wagner secured the Democratic candidacy for Lieutenant Governor. She is facing Lt. Governor Bill Bolling in the statewide election.
+ Matthew James defeated Doug Smith and Elijah "Buddy" Sharp III in the Democratic primary for the Portsmouth 80th District of the House of Delegates.
+ Algie T. Howell, Jr. defeated Lionell Spruill, Jr. to become the Democratic candidate for the Norfolk 90th District of the House.
ANTIQUE DEALER CERTIFICATION On July 15, antique dealers throughout the state will meet in Richmond to begin implementation of a certification program. Developed by the Virginia Retail Federation, the certification program is the result of lobbying efforts which defeated a bill that would have imposed onerous regulations on small antique businesses. In an effort to find an alternative solution that meets the dealers desire to differentiate authentic antiques from counterfeits, Retail Alliance and Retail Merchants Association members are producing a certification initiative that offers:
1. branding, through marketing and consumer education 2. ethics and standards for reputable dealers
3. creation of a "body of knowledge" and best practices 3. continuing education for certification The meeting will take place at the Retail Merchants Association in Richmond. For more information, contact George Peyton, 804-662-5505, gpeyton@retail-merchants.com or Margaret Ballard, 406-9431, mballard@retail-alliance.com | |
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Retail 2 Retail

Tuesday, June 16th
6-8 p.m.
Hi-Ho Silver 316 W. 21st Street, Norfolk, VA 23517
Join fellow retailers for an entertaining evening of networking and fun, complete with refreshments.
Retail 2 Retail takes place the first and third Tuesday of each month and is free to RETAIL ALLIANCE members.
To RSVP call Jen Webber at 757.455.9323 For directions to this R2R and to view upcoming R2Rs click here
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Hispanic Walmart is Hit with Customers

After opening last week, Phoenix's Supermercado de Walmart has produced some happy customers. The Hispanic-focused store appeals to customers because of its location, but also because it offers products that can be hard to find elsewhere, such as carniceria and 40 traditional sweet breads The Arizona Republic has more |
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