Every retailer has a story to tell. From family businesses stretching generations to budding entrepreneurs, neighborhood staples, and new pop-up ventures, retailers are the faces we repeatedly see, the answers to our everyday needs, and the trusted contributors to some of life’s greatest moments – big and small. The WE ARE RETAIL campaign shares the stories of Illinois independent retailers through videos, photos, and blogs. Created by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA), WE ARE RETAIL is designed to raise awareness of the impact retailers have on our lives and our communities.
Being a retailer requires passion, dedication, tenacity, and heart. We invite you to learn more about what motivates retailers as they share how their profession can be challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Their products and services may vary, but every story proudly proclaims: WE ARE RETAIL.
Watch our introductory video to see how the WE ARE RETAIL campaign is shaping the future of retail in Illinois through collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.
Join IRMA
The WE ARE RETAIL campaign was created by IRMA to unite, empower, and amplify the voices of retailers across Illinois. This campaign highlights the essential role retail plays in our communities, the economy, and the lives of Illinois residents.
Becoming an Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) member means joining a powerful network of retail professionals dedicated to driving success and resilience in the industry. IRMA membership offers retailers a host of benefits, including:
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- Advocacy: Feel valued as IRMA champions policies that protect and promote the retail industry, ensuring your voice is heard at every level of government.
- Networking: Grow connections with peers, share best practices, and explore new partnerships through exclusive networking events and member gatherings.
- Resources: Gain access to valuable tools, training, retail features, and insights that help you stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.
- Partnership Program: Through IRMA’s exclusive partner program, members enjoy competitive pricing on essential resources and tools, tailored to meet the unique needs of retailers.
By joining IRMA, you’re investing in your business and the future of retail across Illinois.
Advocacy
IRMA is a steadfast advocate for retail, working diligently to protect the interests of businesses across Illinois. Through proactive engagement with lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and local communities, IRMA drives meaningful change on issues that matter most to retailers, such as:
- Environmental Regulations: IRMA works to expand recycling options while opposing bans, taxes, or extra fees on packaging like bags or Styrofoam.
- Credit and Finance: IRMA opposes restrictions on information flow, artificial pricing, and limits on credit or coupon use.
- Taxes: IRMA supports a competitive tax climate to keep businesses in Illinois and opposes cuts to the vendor collection allowance, advocating for fair and consistent tax laws enforced by the Illinois Department of Revenue
IRMA’s commitment to advocacy ensures that the retail industry remains strong, sustainable, and positioned for growth. We are proud to champion policies that allow retailers to thrive, preserve jobs, and support the local economy throughout Illinois.