One of the greatest challenges facing every independent business today is staying competitive—not just against the store down the street, but against changing regulations, workforce shortages, rising healthcare costs, taxes, and an evolving economy.

As part of MHA's new partnership with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), we'd like to highlight the newly released Wisconsin Competitiveness Report. The report takes a data-driven look at the factors affecting Wisconsin's long-term economic success, including workforce development, taxation, education, healthcare costs, regulations, and business growth. It also offers practical policy recommendations designed to strengthen the state's business climate.

Although the report focuses specifically on Wisconsin, we believe many of the issues it addresses are the very same challenges facing retailers and small businesses throughout the Midwest—and across the country. Whether your business is located in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, or anywhere in the country, these topics are worth understanding because they influence the environment in which all independent businesses operate.

WMC has also launched a companion video series to bring the report's findings to life. The first episode explores the importance of creating a business-friendly environment by choosing "red carpet over red tape," while the second examines the growing impact of healthcare costs on employers. Additional videos will be released in the coming months, and we'll continue sharing those resources with MHA members.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to explore the report and videos. Even if your business isn't located in Wisconsin, the insights may help you better understand many of the trends shaping the future of independent retail and small business.

Read the report here

From the CEO:

It Takes More Than

Great Skiers to Win

by Todd Kuckkahn, CEO, MHA️

This month, I'll be spending some time at the Wisconsin State Water Ski Championships in Wisconsin Rapids WI. If you've never attended a tournament or show, it's worth seeing. The skiers are incredibly talented. Watching them perform can make it look effortless. And like us, they fall once in a while.

But here's something most spectators never notice.

The tournament isn't successful just because of the skiers.

It's successful because of the people you don't necessarily notice. Someone has to drive the boats. Someone has to serve as the safety boat crew. Someone has to manage the dock. Someone keeps score. Someone announces the event. Someone handles registration. Someone makes sure everything is ready before the first skier ever touches the water.

Without those volunteers, there isn't a tournament.

It reminded me of something else...

Read the full article here

Employees Can Discuss Pay Without Fear of Retaliation

(National Labor Relations Act) -- A federal appeals court upheld an NLRB decision that an employer unlawfully fired four employees after they compared salaries and created a wage spreadsheet. Even though management claimed the spreadsheet was disruptive, the court ruled that discussing wages with co-workers is protected activity under federal labor law.

Why it matters to retailers: Managers should understand that employees generally have the legal right to discuss wages and working conditions with one another. Policies or disciplinary actions that discourage these conversations can create legal risk.

Read the full article here



Self-Defense Policies Can Create Unexpected Legal Risks

(Unfair Discharge) -- 72-year-old convenience store clerk was fired after raising her arms to defend herself during an armed robbery, allegedly violating the company's "Don't Confront the Robber" policy. The courts ruled that the case should proceed because self-defense may be protected under Colorado public policy.

Why it matters to retailers: Many retailers have "no confrontation" policies for employee safety. This case is a reminder to review those policies carefully and consider how they apply when an employee is acting instinctively to protect themselves.

Read the full article here

"We have been with MHA for a year now and it is the best decision we have made as small business owners! I don't have to worry about my monthly tax reporting, end of year reports or payroll which takes a load off my mind knowing things are being processed efficiently. The staff are so wonderful, and they all respond quickly and with the answers I need to any question."

-Lisa C.