Retail Industry Leaders Association

Economic uncertainty and the shift in political winds appear destined to set the tone for the year ahead. In 2008, U.S. financial institutions, homeowners and consumers experienced hardships few could have anticipated. The unsettled economy has had a far-reaching, hard-hitting effect on American consumers. With consumer confidence dropping to lows not seen in nearly 30 years, retailers are feeling the pain. As such, the retail industry will continue to be a committed partner to all interests, public and private, intent on jump-starting the economy. Retailers understand the challenges and are resolute in making careful adjustments in their operations, pricing and merchandising to meet consumers’ needs. Retailers are adopting cost-saving measures, which will have short-term balance sheet benefits, but also will strengthen their profitability in the long term as the economy rebounds. The economic road ahead may be bumpy, but retailers have learned from past experiences and will apply those lessons. With his election to the White House, Barack Obama writes a new chapter in U.S. history. The tone and spirit with which his campaign was run gives many hope for the government he prepares to lead. Among the various issues set for consideration by the new Congress and president is the Employee Free Choice Act. This poorly named bill radically changes more than half a century of laws governing the workplace. It turns on its ear many fundamental rights and protections currently afforded American workers. If passed, the bill would effectively eliminate the secret ballot in union organizing campaigns. The proposal, which nearly became law in 2007, is poised for early consideration and is the top priority of organized labor. Decried broadly by businesses, small and large, this proposal would compromise the opportunity and upward-mobility that frontline workers deserve and dangerously limit the flexibility managers require, particularly in tough economic times. Along with the broad business community, the retail industry is committed to protecting these fundamental rights by seeking the defeat of this onerous legislation.