We recognize there are many organizations you could support. Here’s what separates us from the rest.
1. Money-saving services
Business owners are always looking for ways to decrease operating costs. The Council offers a variety of programs designed to save owners money like our popular workers’ compensation insurance and credit card processing programs.
2. Government relations and advocacy
The Council was formed by an active group of retailers who wanted a voice before state government. Nearly 100 years later, the Council still advocates for the best interests of our members before the state Legislature, governor’s office and state regulatory bodies. Each year, the Council’s government relations team blocks hundreds of bills that would be detrimental to the retail industry in New York State. They also work to advance an agenda created by members who sit on our Legislative Committee. The Council has a powerful, full-time presence before state government.
3. Information
The Council encourages members to call with any questions they may have about laws or other aspects to running a business in the Empire State. We’re often able to provide an answer…and when we’re not, we can usually point members to another resource.
To support our workers’ compensation insurance, statutory disability insurance, and credit card processing programs, we have experts on staff to answer questions and resolve problems.
As a free membership benefit, the Council retains labor law consultants who answer member questions on a variety of labor standards and human resources issues. Many times, Council members call us first for help with personnel matters before calling their lawyers.
“You’re there in a pinch,” one complimentary member said recently of the Council’s information services.
Seminar Series
The Council also offers a growing seminar series designed with small and mid-sized businesses in mind. These seminars are held via teleconference or Webinar for easy participation. Event topics have included labor law issues, credit card processing, customer services and more. All seminars are free to Council members.
Publications
The Council publishes its newsletter, New York State Retailer, ten times a year. This useful guide is filled with practical tips to run a profitable business, updates on Council programs/services, and relevant happenings at the state Capitol.
The Council also produces an e-newsletter, the Retail Link. This quick and easy-to-read publication provides additional practical tips, up-to-the minute information on our advocacy efforts before state government, and updates on our money-saving services.
4. Exceptional service
The Retail Council of New York State prides itself on ensuring our members are happy and stay happy. Read member testimonials about the Council and its staff here.
5. Strength in numbers
…gives small businesses group buying power
Whether it’s our money-saving programs or advocacy work before state government, it all boils down to strength in numbers. Each time a new business joins our association, the Council gains even more power to negotiate the very best pricing for our programs and services. Together, we have group buying power that most retailers have a hard time realizing all on their own.
…intensifies retail’s voice before state government
With hundreds of special interest groups, each with their own agenda, clamoring for the attention of our state-elected officials, it can be difficult for a single voice to break through the clutter. But through strength in numbers, the Council is able to ensure the voices of our members are heard. Our large membership base is one of the reasons why our government relations team always has a seat at the table when legislation of importance to retail is discussed.
To take advantage of the Council’s exceptional programs, services and benefits, call (800) 442-3589 or submit a request for more information.