Empowering Virginia’s Main Street Retailers

Posted on by Department of Housing and Community Development

Our guest blogger is Jenny Crittenden, President and CEO of Retail Alliance, an organization serving the interests of local retailers in Greater Hampton Roads. In this blog post, Jenny discusses the critical insights that will be unveiled at the upcoming Virginia Retail Matters event in Portsmouth, Virginia on September 22 and why you should attend and help shape the future of retail in Virginia and beyond.

In the dynamic landscape of commerce, small brick and mortar retailers stand as the cornerstones of Main Streets and local economies, but we all know that. After all, YOU are a Main Streeter, which means you are expected to be omnipotent and omniscient. I know some of you, and you are! However, there’s this thing called Retail, and let me tell you, it NEVER stays the same. The one constant in retail is change. As the retail industry evolves, staying abreast of trends and insights becomes paramount. On September 22, an unmissable opportunity presents itself at the Portsmouth Renaissance Hotel from 11 AM to 2 PM – the Virginia Retail Matters event. At this event, a robust retail study, commissioned by Retail Alliance through Main Street America, focusing on small brick and mortar businesses in Virginia, will be unveiled, casting a spotlight on the trends, challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This event is being held at the close of the Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) fall conference, which you should consider attending as well.

For small brick and mortar retailers and Main Street directors, attending the Virginia Retail Matters event is an invaluable chance to glean insights, foster connections and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it:

  • Local Focus: The event’s focus on Virginia’s retail sector is a unique advantage. Main Street directors, get ready to unravel challenges, trends, and spot those gaps where your brick-and-mortar buddies might need a little or a lot of support.
  • Networking: The Virginia Retail Matters event isn’t just about data – it’s about connecting with like-minded professionals. Engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences and expand your network. Collaborations and partnerships that sprout from these interactions can be transformative for your business.
  • The Crystal Ball: In an era of e-commerce and digital disruption, brick and mortar retailers need to innovate to thrive. The insights garnered from the retail study identify trends in retail and the new consumer post-COVID and can help you identify growth areas, implement new strategies and navigate challenges to ensure your retailers remain relevant in your community.
  • 2024 Legislative Outlook: Listen and learn which policies and issues are facing retailers in Virginia at the state level. Get engaged, listen and find out how you can use your voice in 2024 to help shape retail policy in Virginia.

The Virginia Retail Matters event promises to be a gathering of minds passionate about the vitality of local economies and retail businesses. By attending, you’re investing in your own growth and the prosperity of your community. Mark September 22 on your calendar and be part of this transformative event. Your presence can shape the future of retail in Virginia and beyond!

About Our Speaker

Matthew Wagner, Ph.D. (one of my favorite people) serves as Chief Program Officer at Main Street America. In this role, he is responsible for driving field service initiatives, including the development and delivery of technical services for Main Street America and Urban Main programs, directing the organization’s new research agenda, as well as business development as part of growing new revenue streams.

Who is Retail Alliance?

Retail Alliance is a 501c6 Trade Association for retailers in the Hampton Roads region with a statewide presence in advocacy. We welcome members and non-members to our programs and events. Our goal is to drive retail success through key services, products, education and advocacy. We are the thought leaders in Virginia in the retail sector.

Click here to learn more and register for the Virginia Retail Matters event!