Newsletter — August 21, 2025 | | |
POLICY
ECONOMY
RETAIL THEFT & PUBLIC SAFETY
IN THE NEWS
TRENDS
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WR presents on HB 2015 to Historic Downtown Snohomish Association
WR’s Director of Policy & Government Affairs Crystal Leatherman recently joined the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association to provide an overview of HB 2015, which establishes $100 million in new public safety grants for local governments and authorizes a new councilmanic sales tax option dedicated to public safety.
During the presentation, Crystal explained how HB 2015 works. Cities and counties across Washington are now eligible to apply for competitive grants that can be used to hire, train, and retain law enforcement officers. Additionally, local jurisdictions can also choose to adopt a councilmanic sales tax that can provide long-term, dedicated revenue to fund diversion programs, puww1blic defenders, and other public safety needs.
For communities like Snohomish, this funding represents an important opportunity to strengthen downtown safety, support retailers, and ensure vibrant commercial districts remain welcoming for customers and employees alike. WR will continue to work with local partners statewide to ensure businesses are aware of how HB 2015 can benefit their communities.
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Tacoma Council’s Labor Standards Task Force Resolution triggers lawsuit
On August 12, the Tacoma City Council (Council) voted 7–1 to adopt Resolution #41735, establishing a 15-member Tacoma Labor Standards Task Force to examine all questions and provide recommendations related to a proposed labor initiative recently certified by the Pierce County Auditor.
In adopting the resolution, the Council made clear it had not acted within the City Charter’s 30-day deadline for placing the initiative on the ballot, citing significant questions from internal and external stakeholders on legal and policy uncertainties. That inaction prompted an immediate lawsuit filed on the same day by the initiative’s proponents—United Food and Commercial Workers Local 367, Tacoma for All, and the Tacoma Democratic Socialists of America. The lawsuit alleges the Council and a few others for unlawfully preventing a “minimum wage initiative” from appearing on Tacoma’s November ballot.
Proponents have claimed that the measures mirror policies already in effect in the Seattle area. However, the comparison is misleading. While Initiative 2 in Tacoma—and a similar proposal in Olympia—includes sweeping predictive scheduling requirements for nonprofits, social services, emergency providers, and healthcare employers, Seattle’s policy only applies to large retail and hospitality businesses.
The Washington Retail Association commends the Tacoma City Council for creating a task force that ensures a broad range of voices are represented to determine the minimum wage and labor standards. This approach offers an opportunity to advance worker protections while minimizing unintended consequences for employers, nonprofits, and the community at large.
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Retail sales see strong growth in July
July proved to be a strong month for US retail sales, with total sales up 4.3 percent compared to last year. While some of this growth was supported by inflation, underlying volume sales still rose 1.4 percent, signaling steady consumer demand.
Core retail sales, excluding categories such as autos, gasoline, and foodservice, grew 4.7 percent, or 2 percent in volume. Non-store sales rose 8.3 percent, boosted by Prime Day promotions and related online events. Consumers also showed enthusiasm for value-driven deals, with an estimated $6.2 billion in spending pulled forward from August, much of it related to back-to-school shopping and even early holiday purchases.
Seasonal events played a role as well, with Independence Day contributing to higher spending on food, apparel, and home products. Apparel sales climbed 7.4 percent, while furniture and home stores grew 5.8 percent, both supported by promotions. Food and beverage sales rose 3.3 percent, though electronics and home improvement categories softened.
While consumers remain mindful of budgets, the data shows that they continue to prioritize retail spending, especially when presented with strong value. The results mark a positive start to the second half of the year, giving retailers momentum heading into the fall season.
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Washington gas prices rise above national average
Washington residents are paying more at the pump compared to last year, even as national prices have declined. According to AAA, the state average for a gallon of regular gas is $4.41, nearly 5 percent higher than in summer 2024. Nationally, the average stands at $3.14, reflecting a 9.6 percent drop year over year.
This difference means Washington drivers are paying about $1.27 more per gallon than the national average, placing the state among the highest in the country. Washington has the third-highest gas tax in the nation and currently ranks behind only California and Hawaii for average gas prices.
Gas costs also vary significantly by county. San Juan County reports the highest average at $5.23 per gallon, followed by Wahkiakum at $4.90 and Pacific at $4.77. The lowest prices are found in Asotin County at $3.78, with Spokane and several northeastern counties averaging just above $4.
The current statewide average remains below the record high of $5.56 per gallon set in June 2022. AAA continues to track daily price updates, providing insight into trends that affect both consumers and businesses across Washington.
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Early Labor Day sales offer big savings for shoppers
Labor Day falls on September 1 this year, but major retailers have already launched early sales events, giving shoppers the chance to save ahead of the holiday weekend. Traditionally one of the busiest shopping periods of the year, Labor Day promotions often rival Black Friday, with deep discounts on furniture, appliances, apparel, outdoor gear, and more.
Early markdowns include discounts on major appliances at Lowe’s and The Home Depot. Shoppers can also find apparel and accessories on sale at brands such as Gap, Lands’ End, J.Crew, and Saks OFF 5TH. Home and furniture savings are available at Wayfair, Ashley Furniture, and West Elm.
Retail experts suggest shopping early for popular items to avoid stock shortages and comparing prices across retailers to maximize savings. Many promotions also allow shoppers to stack coupons or rewards programs for additional discounts.
With new offers launching each week in August, now is the time for consumers to track prices and plan their holiday weekend purchases.
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Washington ranks lowest in police staffing nationwide
Washington continues to face significant challenges in law enforcement staffing, ranking last in the nation for the 15th consecutive year, according to FBI data analyzed by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC). The organization’s Crime in Washington report, released July 28, provides a statewide overview of crime trends and staffing levels in 2024.
The report shows Washington gained 292 officers last year, bringing the number of officers per capita from 1.34 to 1.36. While this marks a small improvement, the state remains behind all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Staffing shortages can strain departments, increase response times, and affect officer wellness and retention.
Seattle is beginning to see progress, with more than 100 recruits hired this year and a goal of 150 by December. The department is working to rebuild its workforce after several years of losses.
According to WASPC, raising staffing levels to the national average would require more than $1 billion annually, while leading the nation would cost nearly $5 billion. Public safety leaders emphasize the need for continued investment in both prevention programs and accountability measures to strengthen safety in Washington communities.
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Brazen jewelry store robbery in West Seattle
Seattle Police are investigating a high-value robbery that occurred at a family-owned jewelry store in West Seattle. Authorities report that four suspects forced entry into Menashe and Sons Jewelry by smashing the locked front glass door with hammers.
Once inside, the group broke several display cases and stole jewelry and watches valued at an estimated $2 million dollars. Among the stolen items were Rolex watches worth more than $700,000, an emerald necklace valued at $125,000, and a significant amount of gold jewelry.
The suspects reportedly threatened employees with bear spray and a taser, but no injuries were reported. Police say the individuals were inside the store for only a few minutes before fleeing in a getaway vehicle.
The Menashe family, who have operated the store for generations, expressed gratitude that their employees were unharmed despite the frightening incident. Investigators continue to search for the suspects and encourage anyone with information to contact the Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
King5.com
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Washington Retail Association launches CEO search
The Washington Retail Association (WR) has announced a national search for its next President & CEO following the planned December 2025 retirement of Renée Sunde. This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the West Coast’s most respected trade associations during a time of transformation in the retail industry.
WR seeks a dynamic, strategic leader to guide the association into its next chapter of impact, innovation, and growth. The new President & CEO will oversee statewide initiatives, strengthen WR’s role as a trusted voice for retailers of all sizes, and help shape the future of the industry.
Candidates with proven leadership experience and a vision for advancing retail in Washington are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Submit a resume and cover letter through the WR candidate portal: washingtonretail.org/ceosearch.
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See you in Chicago for the CSRA Annual Meeting – August 26–28, 2025
The Council of State Retail Associations (CSRA) Annual Meeting is right around the corner, taking place August 26–28, 2025, in Chicago. This premier event will bring together retail association leaders and corporate government affairs professionals from across the country for collaboration, learning, and strategy.
Washington Retail’s President & CEO, Renée Sunde, who serves as Chairwoman of CSRA, will lead this year’s gathering. Under her leadership, the program will spotlight pressing issues and forward-looking strategies that shape the retail industry.
Highlights include a workshop on succession planning and board leadership led by Curtis Picard, CAE, President & CEO of the Retail Association of Maine, as well as sessions on artificial intelligence in retail, the future of pharmacy, evolving food industry policies, and environmental regulations.
The meeting is not only a chance to explore important legislative and regulatory topics but also an opportunity to share best practices and strengthen advocacy efforts.
WR staff looks forward to seeing partners and retailers at this impactful event.
Learn more at www.Councilsra.com.
| | Left to right: WR VP of Retail Services, Rose Gundersen, Director for the Washington Department of Commerce, Joe Nguyễn, and WR State & Local Government Affairs Director, Crystal Leatherman | |
WR connects with chambers statewide at annual WCCE conference
Washington’s chamber executives gathered in Ellensburg last week for the annual WCCE conference, featuring a full agenda of timely topics and collaborative discussions.
The event opened with a reception sponsored by WR, recognizing the critical role chambers play in advancing grassroots advocacy and driving local economic development across the state.
Conference highlights:
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Joe Nguyen, Washington State Department of Commerce – Recently appointed by Governor Ferguson, Nguyen emphasized the need for holistic approaches to economic growth, pointing to both workforce development and adequate housing as key to attracting business investment.
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WR’s Rose Gundersen, Panelist on State Trade Association Partnerships – Gundersen stressed the importance of chambers uniting in response to the growing number of union-driven initiatives. A follow-up session with chamber leaders generated productive ideas for coordinated action.
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David Blandford, Executive Director, State of Washington Tourism (SWT) – Blandford’s keynote underscored SWT’s data-driven strategies to expand tourism, supported by tourism tax revenue and limited state funding. He noted that Washington ranks last among all 50 states in tourism promotion investment—a challenge with direct consequences for local economies. Because retail sales are closely tied to visitor spending, WR is committed to deepening its collaboration with SWT to help strengthen Washington’s tourism economy.
WR’s government affairs team valued the opportunity to build new relationships and renew existing partnerships with chamber executives statewide. These connections remain essential to advancing grassroots advocacy and ensuring a strong economic future for Washington’s employers and communities.
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Governor’s Industrial Safety and Health Conference registration open
The Governor’s Industrial Safety and Health Conference is now open for registration, offering a valuable opportunity for employers, employees and industry professionals to strengthen their workplace safety and health practices.
The annual event brings together a wide range of experts to share the latest tools, technologies and strategies that support safer and healthier work environments. Attendees will have access to workshops, breakout sessions and networking opportunities designed to promote practical solutions across industries.
A highlight of the conference is the Exhibit Hall, where participants can explore new products and services from leading vendors that support safety and health goals. For those seeking a deeper learning experience, immersive full day pre conference training sessions are also available.
This conference provides a collaborative space to learn, connect and take actionable insights back to the workplace, helping businesses and employees alike stay informed and prepared.
Registration and additional event details are available here.
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David’s Bridal embraces AI to transform wedding planning
David’s Bridal is charting a new course in retail by integrating artificial intelligence into its customer experience. Following challenges that included two bankruptcies, the company has launched Pearl Planner, an AI-powered wedding planning platform designed to simplify the complex process of organizing a wedding.
Pearl Planner allows brides to build vision boards on in-store touchscreens while the AI system interprets their preferences, suggests vendors, and creates personalized timelines. The tool aims to ease the stress of coordinating hundreds of wedding tasks while offering vendors a subscription-based model to connect directly with couples.
This innovation is being led by CEO Kelly Cook and President Elina Vilk, who bring a mix of retail and technology expertise. Their approach distributes AI expertise across departments rather than isolating it, helping the company accelerate transformation and encourage collaboration.
Beyond enhancing customer experiences, David’s Bridal views Pearl Planner as a new line of business that can drive long-term growth. With plans to expand features and launch a professional version for wedding planners, the initiative demonstrates how retailers can leverage technology not only for efficiency but also to create deeper, more personalized customer connections.
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Walmart expands online marketplace with higher-end items
Walmart is growing its online marketplace to include higher-priced and collectible items, partnering with resale platforms like StockX and Rebag. This year, the retailer added Labubu dolls and other Pop Mart collectibles through StockX, alongside luxury handbags, jewelry, and watches from brands including Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel via Rebag.
The move aims to attract new customer segments and increase site traffic. Michael Mosser, Walmart’s Marketplace VP, noted that the retailer can now offer sought-after products to customers shopping for everyday essentials. Retail analysts say expanding into these categories allows Walmart to engage higher-income shoppers, while providing resellers with broader exposure for their products.
Walmart has also created a collectibles section for trading cards, toys, media, and sports memorabilia, reflecting growing interest in specialized items. Industry observers note that partnerships like these can build brand awareness for luxury goods and collectibles without requiring direct brand engagement.
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Choosing safer school supplies this Fall
As families prepare for the school year, the Washington State Department of Ecology is encouraging parents and caregivers to shop mindfully when selecting school supplies. Many everyday items, from backpacks and markers to lunch boxes and water bottles, may contain chemicals that can be harmful to children’s health and the environment.
Fortunately, there are simple steps that can make a big difference. Ecology recommends choosing water-based art supplies, avoiding scented or solvent-based markers, and selecting fabrics such as canvas or nylon instead of vinyl. Families are also encouraged to look for PFAS-free products, opt for stainless steel or BPA-free water bottles, and choose recycled paper to support sustainability.
Other tips include minimizing packaging to reduce waste, buying durable supplies that can last beyond one school year, and using product safety apps to check labels for personal care items such as lotions or nail polish.
For additional resources and a full list of recommendations, Ecology has created the Healthier Living Starts at Home Guide. More information about programs like Safer Products for Washington and the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act can be found on the Department of Ecology’s website.
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WR diversity statement
WR is committed to the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to create a safe, welcoming environment in which these principles can thrive.
We value all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, identity, sexual orientation, nationality, or disability, and that is the foundation of our commitment to those we serve.
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Renée Sunde, President/CEO — 360.200.6450 — Email
Crystal Leatherman, Dir of Local & State Government Affairs — 360.200-6453 — Email
Rose Gundersen, VP of Retail Services — 360.200.6452 — Email
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