Chamber Cafe Series Luncheon: How Retailers Are Staying Competitive and How They're Building the next Generation of Retailers

The retail industry employs more Ohioans than any other business sector. When you consider that retail includes businesses like wholesalers, logistics, manufacturing and design, this fact shouldn’t be too surprising. The Ohio Council of Retail Merchants was established in 1922 to protect the interests of the retail industry at the local, state and federal level. In addition to public affairs, the Council also provides thought leadership to its members as it relates to the ever-changing retail industry.
Join Gordon Gough, President and CEO of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, as he discusses how his organization supports its 7,000+ members. Topics will include:
The Changing Retail Landscape
We’ve all likely seen the headlines about the retail apocalypse, particularly as it relates to brick and mortar businesses. But the truth is retail is seeing some of the highest gains ever over this last year. So, retail isn’t dead – it’s just changing. How are today’s retailers staying competitive? How are brick and mortar stores surviving the Amazon effect? What can we expect as the industry continues to evolve?
Training A Best In Class Workforce
Retail is often a first job for young Americans. And in Ohio, it’s a significant career path for many. The Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, in partnership with the National Retail Federation, has launched a training and certification program for people wishing to work in the retail industry. Called RiseUp, the program was created to help build the retail industry’s next generation of talent: first-time job seekers and entry-level employees. We’ll discuss this program further, including a unique partnership with the Ohio Department of Education to help grow adoption.
 How The Council Supports The Retail Industry
The Council membership is as diverse as one would expect. From large retailers to small mom-and-pop shops, the Council has to balance the differing agendas and interest of this diverse group. Learn more about how the Council represents the WHOLE industry at the local, state and federal level.