RILA Outlines Impact of Election Results on Retail Industry

Following yesterday’s election, the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) issued a memo which identifies industry priorities heading into 2017 and provides an outlook for these issues under the new administration. In addition to outlining the impact of the current political landscape on the retail industry, the memo details RILA’s plan of action for advancing retailers’ priorities. 

“RILA is optimistic that, despite a contentious campaign season, the next legislative cycle will be productive in addressing some of the challenges retailers are facing today,” said Jennifer Safavian, RILA’s executive vice president of government affairs. “We look forward to working with the Trump Administration and new members of Congress on both sides of the aisle as we continue to advocate on behalf of the retail industry.” 

The key issues identified as priorities for retailers include tax reform, labor, swipe fees, transportation, eFairness, trade, healthcare, cybersecurity, and state politics. Retailers are confident that given President-elect Trump’s focus on the U.S. tax system throughout the campaign, in addition to bipartisan interest from House and Senate leaders, comprehensive tax reform is within reach. In addition, there are several labor and workforce policies implemented under the Obama Administration, which retailers have identified as harmful to the industry, and which could be reformed under the Trump Presidency. RILA will continue to look for ways to work with Congressional members and the new administration to advocate for these issues moving forward.  

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RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.