COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Within the past three months, the retail industry has responded rapidly and heroically to meet consumers’ needs and demands during the unprecedented global coronavirus pandemic. As the industry quickly rose to the challenge to support its consumers when the crisis struck, it suddenly became clear the industry would need to plan for a reliable future ahead when consumer habits stabilized again.

This is why GMDC|Retail Tomorrow, the National Grocers Association (NGA) and International Housewares Association (IHA) joined forces to encourage collaboration and partnerships in support of the smaller suppliers in non-essential categories that were getting left behind.

In an open letter to the industry, these prominent industry associations share insights on the impacts COVID-19 has on retail, outline how to prepare for the next wave of consumer demand for innovation and convenience, and encourage all industry leaders to consider four simple steps to begin making a difference.