IN THIS ISSUE

IN THE NEWS

• Farewell message: Looking back with gratitude, and ahead with optimism
• Washington Retail Board gathers in Bellevue; sets Legislative priorities for 2026 and honors CEO Renée Sunde 
• Farewell to President & CEO Renée Sunde

Farewell message: Looking back with gratitude, and ahead with optimism

As I prepare to step down after eight years leading Washington Retail, I’ve found myself reflecting on the remarkable journey we’ve shared. It has been an honor to work alongside so many dedicated retail leaders, partners, advocates, and policy makers who care deeply about this industry and the communities it serves. Together, we’ve navigated rapid changes, adapted with determination, and continued to move forward with resilience.

Retail has never stood still, and the past several years have accelerated change in ways none of us could have predicted. Rising costs and supply-chain disruptions continue to impact operations, while new and expanded tariffs have added pressure in an already tight-margin environment. At the same time, workforce needs to remain a priority as retailers compete for talent in a fast-moving landscape.

Technology brings both opportunity and complexity. Consumer expectations are evolving quickly, with shoppers seeking convenience, personalization, and a seamless experience across online and in-store channels. Overlaying all of this is the growing influence of artificial intelligence reshaping inventory management, customer engagement, and workforce models. AI offers powerful tools to strengthen operations, improve forecasting, and elevate the customer experience. As policymakers consider the future of AI, it will be important to preserve retailers’ flexibility to innovate while maintaining strong data stewardship.

As we look to the 2026 legislative session, Washington faces significant fiscal and policy challenges. Recent tax changes have created real impacts for retailers, and the economic forecast signals the need for thoughtful consideration in the months ahead Still, this moment presents an opportunity to advance balanced, predictable policies that support public safety, ensure fair competition, encourage innovation, and support job growth in communities across the state.

With every challenge comes possibility, and that is where my optimism remains strong. This industry has always been defined by creativity, adaptability, and courage. Retailers in Washington are not simply responding to change; they are actively shaping the future of commerce. Innovations in automation, experiential retail, and advanced analytics are unlocking new ways to connect with customers and improve operations. The commitment I see every day from retailers, policymakers, and community partners gives me great confidence in what lies ahead.

I leave knowing that Washington Retail is in capable hands, supported by engaged members and a talented team that brings passion and expertise to every issue. Thank you for trusting me, challenging me, and inspiring me throughout these eight years. I am deeply grateful for the relationships, accomplishments, and shared progress we have achieved together.

The road ahead will bring new complexities, but also immense promise. I have no doubt that this association, and the retail industry, will continue meeting each moment with ingenuity and heart.

Thank you for the privilege of serving you. I look forward to cheering for your continued success.

Renée Sunde

Washington Retail Board gathers in Bellevue; sets Legislative priorities for 2026 and honors CEO Renée Sunde 

Washington Retail Association board members gathered in festive Bellevue for our Annual Meeting, an energizing mix of important business, legislative planning, and a heartfelt celebration of leadership. 

Welcome to Our Newly Elected Board Members. During the business meeting, members approved the 2026 board slate. We are pleased to welcome:

Key Updates and Discussions The Board reviewed and approved the 2025/26 WR budget, the annual financial audit, and program updates, including a positive outlook from Brown & Brown WR’s third-party administrator of the Worker’s Comp Retro program and an exciting preview of the redesigned WR website and Membership Guide.

The Policy and Government Affairs team provided a deep dive into the 2026 Legislative Priorities, highlighting key issues that will drive next year’s short session. Top areas of focus include:

• Public safety and organized retail crime
• Workforce and employment law policies
• Environmental and EPR proposals
• Technology, AI, and consumer data privacy
• Fiscal and tax legislation impacting retailers

Local and state leaders, including Bellevue Councilmember Jared Nieuwenhuis, and several key legislators, joined the meeting to discuss public safety, budget pressures, and their upcoming legislative priorities.

Honoring CEO Renée Sunde. One of the highlights of the event was a special reception honoring retiring CEO Renée Sunde. Renée was recognized with an award for her exceptional eight years of service, steady leadership, and dedication to strengthening Washington’s retail industry. Her impact has been tremendous, and members celebrated her with heartfelt speeches, warm applause, and appreciation.

Looking Toward 2026. The meeting set a strong foundation for the year ahead, with board direction guiding WR’s advocacy, industry priorities, and leadership transition. 

We look forward to seeing board members again at our February 4, 2026, meeting in Olympia, followed by the annual Legislative Reception at the Lord Mansion.

Farewell to President & CEO Renée Sunde

On December 10, the Washington Retail Association marked the close of an extraordinary chapter as President & CEO Renée Sunde officially retired after eight years of transformative leadership.

Since stepping into the role in 2017, Renée has guided WR through a time of profound change in retail, rapid digital innovation, a global pandemic, and ongoing public safety challenges. Under her leadership, WR strengthened its statewide presence, elevated the voice of retailers in Olympia, and built powerful coalitions to address organized retail crime and chronic shoplifting. As Bartell Drugs founder George Bartell reflected, he has been “most heartened and impressed” by her efforts and knows she has done her “absolute best."

Renée led WR’s advocacy through intense legislative sessions, including a 2025 session defined by a major budget shortfall and a sweeping $9.4 billion tax package. The team she assembled tracked nearly 1,900 bills and helped secure funding for public safety, prevent overbroad AI and data-privacy mandates, and stop or improve numerous regulatory and employment proposals that would have increased costs and complexity for retailers across the state.

Inside the association, Renée championed modernization and growth, overseeing a refreshed WR website, a new Membership Guide, the transition of Retail Services to Brown & Brown to strengthen the retro program, and the recruitment of several large new members. Her influence extended nationally as Chair of the National Council of State Retail Associations (CSRA), where she brought Washington’s retail voice to the national stage.

Colleagues and partners consistently describe Renée’s leadership as both strategic and deeply personal. Former Governor Christine Gregoire praised her “knowledge and can-do spirit” and the “wonderful legacy” she leaves. Senator Matt Boehnke highlighted not only her statewide impact but also her friendship. Longtime collaborator Dann Mead Smith called her “an outstanding leader and great partner on issues.”

Krista Beck, CEO of Jerry's Auto Supply/Piston Service of Wenatchee, Inc. and WR Board Treasurer, said, “Renée is a gifted leader whose impact on WA State will benefit the retail industry for years to come. She has achieved these results with her unwavering professionalism, resilience, and, most importantly, a focus on people at the heart of everything she does. Being a leader isn't easy, but she has done it with a grace that has inspired all of us to join her on this mission. We are so grateful for Renée and wish her a joyful and well-deserved next season in her retirement.”

As Renée steps into retirement, she leaves WR stronger, more resilient, and well-positioned for the future. On behalf of our board, members, and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude and warmest wishes to Renée for all she has done for the retail industry in Washington State.