Retail Industry Associations Merge

The National Retail Federation (NRF) and the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) have decided to combine in a single trade association representing retail interests in the nation’s capital.

In a joint statement, RILA chairman Robert A. Niblock and NRF chairman Myron Ullman III noted: “This is an historic time for our industry. The challenges and opportunities before our members are unprecedented. Now is the right time to bring these associations together.” In addition to enhancing member value, the new (and as yet unnamed) association will provide a unified voice on policy issues plus host events and conferences and offer educational and operational services.

RILA president Sandy Kennedy will oversee the transition (expected to be complete by this summer), while Tracy Mullin, NRF president and CEO, has decided to retire after 30 years of involvement with the federation. A new head for the conjoined association has yet to be named. For further details, visit www.nrf.com and www.retail-leaders.org.

In This Issue: The future of Eco in a down market The T-shirt trend report Avoiding the perpetual sale trap Plus: Lifestyle brands rule the fashion pages Coming Next Month: Understanding the grandparent demographic An update on the state of e-commerce Earnshaw’s annual report on the growth of the industry Plus: Infant and toddler fashion