Welcome to the Vermont Retail Association

For more than 40 years, VRA has helped thousands of Vermont businesses do business better. Any Vermont business is welcome to join. Our only goal is serving your business needs.

2012 Legislative Conference & Luncheon Thursday February 23rd

Legislative Day at the Capitol is a chance to meet fellow members as well as your elected representatives. It is an investment in your business.

Please click here for a Legislative Brochure and registration form.

Nominations Sought for 2011 VRA Retailer of the Year Awards

The Vermont Retail Association (VRA) is pleased to announce the third annual Vermont Retailer of the Year Awards. Membership in VRA is not required for eligibility. All Vermont businesses engaged in retail operations may be nominated and considered. Nominations may be submitted using this nomination form. Nominations will be accepted through December 31, 2011.

"Highlights of the presentation by Susan Thompson of Efficiency Vermont of money and energy saving tips for retailers."

Vermont Retail Association Announces

New Partnership with Efficiency Vermont

The Vermont Retail Association (VRA) and Efficiency Vermont announced the launch of a new partnership to target and meet the needs of Vermont's retail community.

"We're very excited to work with Efficiency Vermont in support of our members," stated Tasha Wallis, VRA's Executive Director. "This is a golden opportunity for retailers statewide to save energy and money, and strengthen their bottom lines."

As part of this new partnership, Efficiency Vermont will be sponsoring regional meetings with VRA this year. Susan Thompson, Efficiency Vermont Planning and Development Manager dedicated to the retail market is equally pleased with the new partnership. "In today's marketplace, energy efficiency is an important part of creating a winning retail setting. We are committed to delivering programs and solutions that are especially suited to the needs of retailers statewide."

"Retailers want to show products in the best light and provide a comfortable environment for their customers. Good, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC equipment will help do this," noted VRA's Wallis.

Working with Efficiency Vermont can produce significant immediate benefits for retailers as well as long-term dividends. Bonnie Hawley, a Rutland florist who is also president of VRA's Board of Trustees, recently worked with Efficiency Vermont to make her store more energy-efficient. "Efficiency Vermont helped me determine that the store's lighting was using far too much energy," said Hawley. "They provided the information I needed to make my lighting upgrade a reality and were very easy to work with. The financial incentives were helpful to get the project done. I'd highly recommend them to every retail business owner."

Vermont retailers can take advantage of Efficiency Vermont services, including recommendations for energy efficiency improvements in their businesses, as well as financial assistance in the form of standard rebates, by calling toll-free at 888-921-5990 or visiting the newly redesigned, easy-to-use www.efficiencyvermont.com.

Business People-Vermont Vermont Retail Association, Tasha Wallis

A SALUTE TO THE WINNERS!

VRA would like to congratulate the winners of the 2010 Vermont Retail Association Retailer of the Year Awards:

Retailer of the Year: Allen Pools and Spas
Rutland, White River Junction, Williston

Greentailer of the Year: Outdoor Gear Exchange
Burlington

Community Gem: Old Brick Store
Charlotte

Many Vermont businesses throughout the state were nominated by their fellow businesspeople. The winners were selected after lengthy review by a panel made up of judges with long and successful retail experience of their own in Vermont. The three winners are exemplary businesses, incorporating superior practices, sustainability, innovation, environmental sensitivity, and community involvement.

The winners were honored at the 2010 VRA Retailer of the Year Awards Luncheon at Table 24 in Rutland on Tuesday, November 9th.