The Washington Retail Associationrepresents the unique needs of retailers and affiliates in state government.”
Merchants concerned with advancing and safeguarding the well being of the retail industry established the Washington Retail Association (WRA) in 1987.Today merchants, legislators, state officials and trade groups recognize the Association as a powerful and effective voice for the retail industry.
WRA is the only association in Washington formed exclusively to advocate the unique interests of the retailing industry on state legislative and regulatory issues.Our strength is in our numbers and in the diversity of our membership.WRA represents over 2,800 retail storefronts and specialty associations; including the NW Tire Dealers Assoc., WA Automotive Wholesalers Assoc. and the Pacific NW Jewelers Assoc.Our membership includes all types of retailers in all parts of the state, from the largest national chains to the smallest independent businesses.
The Association is affiliated nationally with the Retail Industry Leaders Assoc., National Retail Federation, Food Marketing Institute, National Association of Chain Drug Stores and National Association of State Retail Association Executives.WRA collaborates with local Chambers of Commerce and a number of state organizations in promoting our members’ common interests.
WRA Provides Political Influence
The top priority service WRA offers its members is its political influence.Most members are busy and do not have time to monitor the legislature and state agencies on a full-time basis.Legislative and regulatory activity is the Number One Priority of the Washington Retail Association.Specialized service is a hallmark of this program, guaranteeing every member’s needs are met.
WRA is the only organization that looks at every legislative bill and state agency regulation proposed, year around, from an retail perspective; making sure that it does not negatively impact your way of doing business and your ability to make a profit.Its lobbyists are “on the hill” every day of the legislative session and throughout the year advocating members’ interests at all levels of government.
WRA Keeps You Informed
Members are kept up-to-date through the Association’s quarterly newsletter, The Washington Retailer; a weekly Legislative W.I.N. e-mail bulletin; as well as special interest alerts as needed.These publications are the members’ active links to issues that affect them.Conference calls and briefings are held on a regular basis.
WRA Gives Personal Attention
When you have a problem with state government, WRA is your contact in Olympia.Let us help you find the answer or direct you to someone who can.
WRA Invites You to Join Our Efforts Your membership investment helps to keep your regulatory and tax costs down.Join us to keep the retail industry healthy and prosperous!Help shape the future of retailing in Washington.
If you would like more information on how a WRA membership can benefit your business, contact Anne Milam at 360-943-9198 ext 16, or email her at amilam@retailassociationservices.com
The Washington Retail Association, WRA, is a 501 C 6 trade association formed to advocate for Washington State’s retailers at the local, state and national level. Since 1987, the WRA has protected Washington's retailers from unreasonable taxes, fees, regulations and legislation. The efforts of the WRA benefit all Washington state retailers and help fuel statewide economic growth.
