2010 / 2011
State of
Florida
Retailing
Report
FRF... All Business About Small Business
Table of Contents
Leadership’s Message
1
Membership and Benefits
2
Retail Spotlights
3
Retail Councils
6
Florida Bankcard Solutions
8
RetailFirst
9
Team Retail: Advocacy, Intervention and Political Activities
10
OrdinanceWatch™
11
Grassroots: Team Retail Action Network
11
Political Action
12
Voter Education: Florida Mainstreet Merchants
12
Meetings and Networking
13
Board of Directors
14
Florida Retail Foundation
Chairman’s Circle
Florida Retail Masters
15
16
Industry Awards
18
FRFbiz.com
20
Team Retail Professional Staff
21
About the Florida Retail Federation
The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) is the statewide trade association that
represents retailers on a wide range of issues before Florida’s Legislature and
regulatory agencies. The association also provides cost-saving and profitboosting services to Florida businesses. FRF is the advocate of the state’s most
important industry — retailing — and has served as The Voice of Florida Retailing since its establishment in 1937.
On the Cover
1. Mark Cross,
president of
4
Tasty Pastry
Bakery, Inc.,
2
Tallahassee, shows off
5
3
some cake creations.
1
The business was
6
founded 48 years ago
by his parents, Mitchell
and Hortencia Cross.
Mark and his sister, Debbie, along with their
late father, went on to become Master Bakers.
The siblings, working alongside their mother
and another brother, Mike, have expanded the
business to include gifts, catering, and takeout
meals. The company has 16 employees. They
have been members of FRF since 2003 and
participate in the workers’ compensation
insurance program.
2. Cindee Murphy, founder of Pies & Plates,
Punta Gorda. Photo courtesy of Ian Wagreich.
Please see page 3.
3. Beverly Russum, president of Direct Mail
Express, with Don G. Busing, CIC, vice
president of Lanier Upshaw Insurance,
Lakeland. Please see page 9.
4. Carolyn Brown is president and cofounder of Suburban Hair Fashions,
Inc. The astute businesswoman and
her 13 stylists still operate from the
original location Ms. Brown opened in 1958
in Tallahassee. Ms. Brown is also a partner in
a second salon, Parkway Suburban, opened
in 1964. Her daughter, Terri Hartsfield, joined
her in the business in 1979. They have been
members of FRF since 1995 and participate in
the workers’ compensation insurance program
and Florida Bankcard Solutions.
5. Melanie Lee, general manager of Kia
AutoSport, Tallahassee. Please see page 14.
6. 2010 Retailer of the Year recipients Dave
and Karen West, The Rolling Pin Kitchen
Emporium, Brandon, with FRF President and
CEO Rick McAllister (left) and FRF Chairman
of the Board Dan Doyle, Beall’s, Inc., Bradenton
(right). Please see pages 18 and 19.
F l o r i da R e ta i l F e d e rat i o n
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Leadership’s Message
Retail Superstars…Salute to Small Business
Our economy is improving. We can hear it in your voices and see it in the numbers.
Consumer confidence is rising, our retirement plans have regained much of their
losses, and real estate transactions are on the upward move. Profits have improved
and cash is strong. Hiring, which always trails recovery, will begin to show significant
Daniel J. Doyle
gains in the coming months.
We have all learned a great deal during these past few years. As in past recessions,
we learned that we need less space and inventory to maximize revenues and minimize
expenses. We succeeded with fewer people…frankly less of everything. Growth,
however, has been on a holiday and it is now time for Florida to return to embracing
new citizens, new stores, and new hires.
Key to this return to growth is small business. A fact that we like to share with
Richard A. McAllister
groups across the state is that 75 percent of net new jobs in any decade, whether
the economy is good or bad, are produced by businesses less than five years old.
Of course, most of these are small businesses. Any plan to grow jobs must include
strategies to encourage small business creation.
At the Florida Retail Federation, we are fortunate to have a large contingent of
small business members. This annual report shines a very bright light on these special
members. They are clearly the heart and soul of Florida’s economy, and their success
will be Florida’s success.
We are honored and proud to represent you as a Florida retailer — the very fabric of our
great country! This report is structured, in part, as a guide to help you get the most
value from your FRF membership. We encourage you to sign up for the retail councils
specific to your business, explore our array of money-saving services, and check out our
government and political affairs endeavors. Please call us first if you have any questions
about your business, your government, or your association. We are here to help you
succeed!
Yours in retailing,
Daniel J. Doyle
Chairman of the Board
Beall’s, Inc.
Bradenton
Richard A. McAllister
President and CEO
Florida Retail Federation
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Membership and Benefits
What have we done for you lately?
We’re glad you asked!
The Florida Retail Federation is committed to providing its members with an excellent return on their dues
investment by offering products and services that add
value to businesses and give a boost to their bottom lines.
Beyond our proactive legislative and government advocacy
initiatives that save the retail industry billions of dollars
each year, many members find that using even one of FRF’s
services more than pays for their annual membership
dues. Just a few of the member benefits offered through
the Florida Retail Federation, Florida Retail Federation
Services, Inc., and the Florida Retail Foundation are listed
here.
FRF’s advocacy programs have contributed to Florida’s
businesses by:
UU reducing workers’ compensation insurance premiums
by more than 60 percent since October 2003;
UU averting a $1.3 billion unemployment compensation
tax increase for 2010;
UU defending consumers against exorbitant rate increases by Florida’s major utility companies which resulted
in consumers avoiding a $1.8 billion rate increase over
a two year period; and
UU helping them avoid $100 million in business litigation
costs through tort reform legislation from “Joint and
Several” reform to “Slip and Fall” reform.
FRF works to keep its members informed. For weekly updates throughout Florida’s Legislative
Session check out www.frf.org.
FRF members unite in Tallahassee during 2011’s Retail
Days at the Capitol to discuss industry issues with
legislative and government leaders.
Additional member benefits include:
UU lower bankcard fees;
UU up to a 66 percent discount on shipping costs with
nationally recognized transportation companies;
UU a quality workers’ compensation insurance program;
UU educational opportunities including online learning
and webinar seminars;
UU FRFbiz.com, a dedicated website for small business
operators; and
UU social networking opportunities on Facebook,
LinkedIn and Twitter.
Please refer to www.frf.org or FRFbiz.com for more
information or a complete list of services, or call us at
1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824).
(LEFT) Enjoying networking during 2011’s Retail Days
at the Capitol are (from left): Katie Hallaway,
Lowe’s Companies, Inc., Wilkesboro, NC;
Casey Cesnovar, Walgreen Co., Deerfield, IL;
Anika Hagenson, Target Corporation, Minneapolis, MN;
and Paul Imbrone, Macy’s, Miami.
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Retail Spotlight
Cindee Murphy followed her dream of
opening Pies & Plates in Punta Gorda eight
years ago, marking her entry into retailing
and exit from a successful partnership in an
established law firm. What started out as
a high end retail store with an espresso bar has since grown into a
multifaceted venture that includes a retail store, online offerings of
more than 70,000 items, gift baskets, a full-service restaurant, catering services, and a culinary academy! All support Cindee’s original
goal of providing guests with an unforgettable shopping and dining
experience.
“If we want consumers to choose Pies & Plates over every other
restaurant then we can’t be the same as every other chocolate in the box;
we need to be the very best chocolate in the box,” explains Cindee, of her
philosophy that has helped keep the business going through the most
recent economic downturn and also guided its long-term success.
Listening to her customers and thinking ahead helps as well.
Since launching the culinary academy two years ago, Pies & Plates
has hosted over 300 cooking classes and developed a reputation that
attracts students from all over Southwest Florida. “The Bagel Shop,”
incorporated last fall along with a signature “bag-omelet,” an omelet
stuffed in a bagel, helps define and expand their breakfast business.
Introducing her signature Gooey Butter Cakes has also increased
dessert sales and expanded store traffic. In fact, Cindee recently
trademarked the “Gooey Butter Bakery,” and is exploring a myriad of
opportunities for the products.
“A hallmark of Pies & Plates is that it is always evolving,” says Cindee,
who continues dreaming up new adventures for both her customers and her business. “We are definitely a better business than we were
three years ago. That makes me very optimistic about the future.”
In addition to supporting numerous charities and community
events, Cindee works to draw customers to the entire Punta Gorda
area, most notably through the website www.discoverpuntagordaflorida.com, which she created, designed, maintains, and funds as a gift to
the community.
Cindee employs five full-time workers and two to three seasonal
workers. She has been a member of FRF since 2004, has her company’s workers’ compensation insurance through RetailFirst, and was
a recipient of the 2009 Retailer of the Year Award for Leadership.
www.piesandplates.com
Photo courtesy of Ian Wagreich
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Pictured are (from left):
Cristina HernandezRamil and Sofia Victoria;
Joseangel HernandezRamil; Teresita Hernandez;
Dolores Hernandez; and
Margarita Hernandez.
Retail Spotlight
AAA Million Auto Parts, Inc., a successful 5th generation
family-owned business, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in Miami
this year. The company’s history, however, dates back to 1938 when
the late Jose Ramon Hernandez, AAA Million’s founder, started in
the automotive field as a teenager in Cuba. In 1961, Jose and his wife,
Dolores, left behind five auto parts warehouses, a car dealership, and
several gas stations to relocate with their two young daughters to live
in freedom in Miami. Thanks, in part, to good relationships already
established with American companies, the couple was able to start
a small auto parts warehouse ­— AAA Million Auto Parts, Inc. While
the company has evolved through the decades, its success continues
to be guided by founding principles of honesty, customer service,
integrity, and commitment to community and others.
Currently, Dolores still spends time at the business each day.
Primary operations, however, are overseen by daughters Margarita
Hernandez, the company’s president, and Teresita Hernandez,
AAA Million’s treasurer.
With literally a million or so items in stock “the business is divided
into four main parts, each managed by a family member,” explains
Margarita, who handles government sales, which includes serving
United States embassies worldwide since 1980.
“Sixty percent of our sales are local to the general public” and managed
by grandson Joseangel Hernandez-Ramil. Internet sales are managed
by granddaughter Cristina Hernandez-Ramil. Teresita is in charge of
accounting.
Over the years, AAA Million has built strong ties and friendships
throughout the community, even helping folks get started in the automotive field by extending them credit. Although the company has
received many business awards, “we are most proud of the community
service we have done to help the underprivileged, both locally and in Haiti,
where we support orphanages and clinics.”
As the company looks to start its next 50 years in business,
promotions are being well-received. “We are offering our customers
new services such as free installations with our own mechanics and free
oil changes with the purchase of oil,” says Margarita.
The company currently has 11 employees. It has been a member of
FRF since 1988 and has its workers’ compensation insurance coverage
through RetailFirst. They also use FRF’s PartnerShip shipping services.
www.cheapautopartsdistributor.com
F l o r i da R e ta i l F e d e rat i o n | 5
Pictured are (from left): Mary Mead
Bailey Johnson; Dane Johnson; June
and Francis Bailey; Callaway, Richard,
and Bailie Johnson.
Bailey’s General Store has grown to be as much a part of the
Sanibel Island landscape as seashells and sunsets. Founded by the late
Frank Bailey, the store was originally located at the end of Matthews
Wharf to serve what was then a small farming community.
“He used to bring the supplies over by sail boat from Fort Myers,”
explains Francis Bailey, who joined his father in the business fulltime in 1948. There have been many dramatic changes through the
more than 100 years of operations. For example, a 1926 hurricane
demolished the store and necessitated its move inland. Completion
of a bridge from Punta Rassa in 1963 marked the community’s shift
to a tourist destination. However, the formula for success — including being fair and truthful — remains the same. “We do what we’ve
always done. We pay attention to our customers and do what they ask us
to meet their needs.”
Today, the 30,000 square foot upscale store continues to be a
one-stop shop where customers can purchase fresh and organic
produce, choice meats, gluten-free products, tools in the True Value
Hardware® section of the store, enjoy a full-service deli, relax at the
gourmet bakery and coffee bar, or get their watch battery changed.
Special event planning and catering are offered as well.
“We serve a mix of resident and island guests whose tastes range
Bailey’s General Store was originally located
on Matthews Wharf, circa 1913.
from peanut butter and jelly to caviar and fine cuts of meats,” says sonin-law Richard Johnson, who with Francis’s daughter, Mead, and
their children, are continuing the Bailey legacy. “We’ve embraced that
we’re an old-fashioned, true general store with modern equipment and
merchandise.” As such, they are helping guide the store’s transformation back to its original look of wood plank floors and wooden
barrels.
Like many retailers, the family has a long history of community
service. Frank Bailey donated land and helped establish the area’s
cherished 6,350 acre J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Francis, along with his late brother and former business partner,
Sam, helped create the annual Baileyfest, a customer appreciation day full of free entertainment, food, and give aways. From the
American Heart Association to the local school, community events,
sports, and the arts, “we literally get involved in about everything,” says
Richard.
With the third and fourth generations on board, the future of
Bailey’s General Store is in good hands. A new member of FRF, Bailey’s offers irreplaceable local flavor seven days a week and employs
between 85 and 90 people.
www.baileys-sanibel.com
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Retail Councils Help Members Customize Experience
The Councils of the Florida Retail Federation provide members the opportunity to maximize
their dues investment with focused, customized experiences and communications.
“While some issues are relevant to the entire retail community,
we encourage all members to go one step further and sign up
for the councils particularly significant to their business,” says
Elaine Mann Carpenter, CAE, vice president of membership and operations. “There is no cost to sign up and
members can join as many councils as they’d like. We’ll
keep them informed and ready for action through email alerts,
calls to action, conference calls, occasional face-to-face meetings, and dedicated council areas on FRF’s website.”
Following is a brief overview of FRF’s current Retail Councils.
To join a council or for more information, contact FRF at
1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824) or www.frf.org.
Bankcard Council
Real Estate Council
Represents all members who
use Bankcard services through
Florida Bankcard Solutions
and fights to lower rates and
provide extraordinary customer service.
Represents members who are
active in the commercial real
estate market as a tenant or an
owner.
Corporate Council
Workers’
Compensation Council
Represents members with
more than 200 employees on
issues specific to their corporate needs.
Finance and
Tax Council
Represents all members on
tax issues before the state of
Florida and also addresses
other financial issues.
Represents all members who
have workers’ compensation
insurance coverage through the
association and RetailFirst. The
council fights to lower workers’
compensation rates.
Utility Council
Represents all members on
utility issues, especially those
related to the Florida Public
Service Commission. Through
the work of this council, members have saved millions of
dollars on utility rates.
Represents Florida’s grocery
industry and keeps its members
aware of legislative and regulatory issues and events affecting
the success of the retail grocery
industry.
Represents Florida’s retail
pharmacy industry and protects
their interests in the legislative
and regulatory processes.
FRF has worked steadfastly through the years to serve Florida’s
small businesses, which make up the majority of its membership.
The newly established Retail Small Business Council makes it easier
than ever for members to access services that will save them money
and expand profits. The council targets businesses that have less
than 200 employees.
“We’re especially pleased to launch FRFbiz.com,” says Rick McAllister, FRF’s president and CEO. “This new site is designed to be the one
stop resource for our small business operators, from advice on how to start
up a business to money saving services. We encourage small businesses to
think ‘FRF First’ when it comes to their needs.”
FRF works specifically for small businesses in other ways, as
well. For example, as a member of the Small Business Regulatory
Advisory Council, Samantha Hunter Padgett, FRF’s deputy general
counsel, gives voice to retailers operating small businesses during the
administrative rulemaking process of state government agencies.
“It’s critically important the government understand the adverse
impact their actions could have on small businesses, which are so vital to
Florida’s economy,” says Padgett, who is the Retail Council’s executive
coordinator. “I’m excited about the opportunities FRF’s new Retail Small
Business Council holds for us to better serve and work with our small business members.”
For more information on FRFbiz.com, please see page 20.
F l o r i da R e ta i l F e d e rat i o n
Represents members who engage in tourism-impacted retail,
targeting out-of-state visitors
and in-state vacationers.
This council works with the
Retail Centers at both Florida
State University and the
University of Florida to ensure
curriculums are designed to
properly prepare students for
professional careers in the retail
industry, and reviews additional
professional education and
development projects.
The Retail Beverage Council represents every type of alcohol beverage retailer, from independent store and bar owners to national
chains. The council is involved on all issues relating to alcoholic
beverages including taxation, underage drinking, and equity among
manufacturers and distributors. An annual highlight is RBC’s dynamic
Educational Seminar and Trade Show which provides unsurpassed
industry networking opportunities
in Florida and allows vendors to
showcase their newest products
and services.
Barry Zeidwig, vice president and
general manager of the Northern
Division of Southern Wine and Spirits,
Jacksonville (left), received the 2010
“A Retailer’s True Friend” award, RBC’s
highest industry honor, from RBC’s
Scott Dick. Mr. Zeidwig was recognized
for his friendship to the alcohol
beverage industry’s retail tier as well as
for his commitment to his community.
The Sustainability Council welcomes members from all sizes
and types of businesses who
consider environmental and sustainability concerns important.
The council works cooperatively
with businesses, governments,
and individuals to share best
practices, discuss legislative and
regulatory impact, and host educational seminars. A highlight
of 2010 included the council’s
participation in the “A Bag’s
Life” campaign, which included
a statewide video contest. “A
Bag’s Life” is a public educational
campaign that promotes the
common goal of the three R’s:
reduce, reuse and recycle.
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Jan Valentic, The Scotts MiracleGro Company, West Palm Beach,
makes a presentation at a
Sustainability Council meeting in
February 2011.
Representatives from Imperial Brands / Sobieski Vodka, pictured with RBC Executive Coordinator Scott Dick (second from right)
were one of the many vendors at RBC’s October 2010 trade show, titled “Building Profits Together,” held in Orlando in conjunction
with FRF’s Annual Meeting.
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Florida Bankcard Solutions:
Big Bang for Membership Bucks
www.FloridaBankcardSolutions.com
Saving money on credit card
Jim Lashley started his business “from scratch” in 1987. Two years ago, he
processing and maximizing profits
built and moved his one-stop landscape supply company into a new 13,000
through gift card, branding, and loyalty
square foot retail space on two acres. Mr. Lashley and his team of 15 serve
programs has helped build Florida Bankresidential and commercial clients throughout Orlando. He is a graduate of
the Retail Masters Class of 2010.
card Solutions (FBS), a product of Florida
Retail Federation Services, Inc., into one of
FRF members’ top value-added services.
“FBS was founded in 2003 to provide
businesses with an alternative to high fee
merchant service programs,” says Jon
Stolp, FBS vice president. “Since inception,
we’ve saved our members hundreds of thousands of dollars on credit card processing.”
Low processing fees on MasterCard,
VISA, Discover and American Express
are core program features. Value-added
bonuses include:
UU No Monthly Charge Minimums
UU No Chargeback Fee
UU No Voice Authorization Fee
UU Free Supplies and Set-up
“Personal service and overall trustworthiness make Florida Bankcard Solutions the right
UU No Programming Costs, making the
choice for my company. I have been using the FRF-sponsored workers’ comp product for
switch to Florida Bankcard Solutions
years. Adding Bankcard Solutions helps me maximize my membership value and savings.”
not only easy, but free
>> Jim Lashley, president, Landscape Supply Co., Orlando
UU Low Monthly Statement Fee
RETAIL
SPOTLIGHT
Additional current products include:
electronic check collection, wireless
processing, and Remote Deposit Capture, which allows business operators
to process and deposit checks without
leaving their stores. A check guarantee
program gives retailers the ability to scan
a check and request approval at the time
of the transaction, ensuring that once the
guarantee company approves the check,
retailers will receive their payment even if
the check turns out to be worthless.
“Our retail clients remain a priority;
however, we’re pleased to continue expanding
into the wholesale market by partnering with
banks, credit unions and like-minded associations,” says Stolp. “These partnerships allow
us to reach additional business operators
Allen Langford, president, is
pictured with First America
Bank Chairman of the
Board and CEO Dan Hager,
Bradenton (middle) and
Crystal Laake, FBS regional
territory manager (left).
Founded in 1998, First
America is a community
bank headquartered in
Bradenton with additional
locations in Palmetto,
Ellenton, Sarasota, and
Osprey.
who could benefit from our great processing
rates, free supplies and set-up, and on-site
assistance.”
Visit www.FloridaBankcardSolutions.com for more information about
this service or call its toll-free hotline at
1.877.327.8308.
“Florida Bankcard Solutions’
stellar service and quick
response help us keep our
customers satisfied and loyal.
It’s a winning partnership all
around.”
›› Allen Langford, President
First America Bank, Palmetto
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RetailFirst + FRF =
A Positive Difference for Business
RetailFirst is committed to providing outstanding workers’ compensation solutions for thousands of
Florida retailers operating all sizes and types of businesses. RetailFirst, introduced in 1979 as the Florida
Retail Federation Self Insurers Fund, works in partnership with FRF to provide members with an exclusive
workers’ compensation safety program designed to
reward policyholders who have made a commitment to
safety and are dedicated to lowering their losses. RetailFirst is managed by Summit, “The People Who Know
Workers Comp®.” A customizable safety program and
online safety webinars, exclusively for FRF members,
are included to help achieve long-term savings on comp
costs and maximize dividend potential.
Summit works in partnership with FRF’s RetailFirst
insured members to keep their claims low, costs down,
and savings high with value-added benefits such as:
UU Innovative claims-management services;
UU A toll-free hotline to report injuries 24 hours a day,
7 days a week;
“The RetailFirst Board of Trustees and Summit are dedicated
to providing Florida retailers exceptional, stable workers’
compensation insurance coverage options with the value-added
member benefits of the Florida Retail Federation. We are grateful
to the thousands of independent insurance agents throughout
the state who are committed to sharing the numerous benefits of
RetailFirst and the Florida Retail Federation with their clients.”
>> W. “Bill” Kundrat, Jr. , CAE, Chairman, RetailFirst Trustees, Sun City Center
UU Specialized claims professionals;
UU On-staff medical directors and nurse case managers;
UU A Back2Work™ program designed to help business owners establish
their own return-to-work programs;
UU A specialized provider network consisting of more than 16,000 doctors
and specialists;
UU Comprehensive loss-control services;
UU Safety consultations;
UU Drug-free workplace assistance;
UU Safety education and training materials; and
UU An online Business Center.
RETAIL
SPOTLIGHT
Looking to combine gainful employment with hands-on parenting to her nowgrown son, Beverly Russum started a mail service business in her Lakeland
garage twenty-five years ago. She and her four employees hand-folded, stuffed,
and processed each piece. “Giving business to a company owned and operated
by a woman wasn’t the norm back then,” says Ms. Russum. Perseverance and
business savvy, however, paid off. Building strong relationships with clients and employees
helped fuel growth and success. Today, Ms. Russum employs 15 to 20 people who help her
process approximately seven million pieces of mail annually. “My insurance agent
recommended RetailFirst
to me 20 years ago,
and I’ve been totally
satisfied. Excellent
communications from
Summit regarding drug
testing, safety and other
incentives, plus dividend
opportunities continue to
make RetailFirst the best
workers’ compensation
insurance choice for my
business.”
›› Beverly Russum,
President / Owner,
Direct Mail Express,
Lakeland
Pictured (from left) are: Don G. Busing, CIC, vice president, Lanier
Upshaw Insurance; representing Direct Mail Express: Heidi Watkins and
Lynn Mize, supervisors; and Beverly Russum, president.
All of RetailFirst’s day-to-day
operations are handled by Summit’s
home office in Lakeland. RetailFirst
is marketed through independent
insurance agents across the state.
For more information, contact
the Florida Retail Federation at
1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824).
“I have enjoyed a good working
relationship with FRF and Summit
for more than 25 years and know
that RetailFirst is a superior value
for our clients. We love saving our
clients money on their workers’
comp by utilizing RetailFirst’s
aggressive dividend products,
which reward safety management
and good loss ratios, driving a
direct boost to their bottom lines.
We encourage clients to maintain
their FRF membership and support
the association’s lobbying efforts
on behalf of Florida’s small
businesses.”
>> Don G. Busing, CIC, Vice President,
Lanier Upshaw Insurance, Lakeland
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Advocacy, Intervention and Political Activities
With issues amounting to billions of dollars at stake for the retail industry each year, FRF’s
proactive, solutions-based approach to legislative,
political, and regulatory concerns is paramount to
the well-being and success of Florida retailers.
“We work year-round on numerous fronts to advocate on behalf of our members and ensure The Voice of
Florida Retailing is heard loud and clear,” says Randy
Miller, FRF’s executive vice president and Advocacy,
Intervention, and Political Team (AIP) leader. “Retailers, and especially those with small businesses, can be
significantly impacted by even one onerous regulation
or piece of legislation; therefore, it is critical that their
perspective is represented.”
A sampling of FRF successes and relief for retailers during 2010 and into 2011 include:
UU preserving workers’ compensation reforms
initially enacted in 2003, which resulted in a 60
percent reduction in workers’ compensation
insurance rates;
UU successfully defending public and private consumers against exorbitant rate increases by Florida’s major utility companies which resulted in
consumers avoiding $1.8 billion in rate increases
over a two year period;
UU averting a $1.3 billion unemployment compensation tax increase for 2010, or approximately $75
per employee; and
UU initiating and successfully advocating legislation to enact the 2010 Back-to-School Sales Tax
Holiday.
Among numerous other activities, the AIP Team:
UU monitors Florida Public Service Commission activities and provides a retail-customized monthly
report on FRF’s website;
UU works cooperatively in times of disaster to provide a direct link between retailers and the State
Emergency Response Team through the Team
Retail Emergency Preparedness Network;
UU serves on the Small Business Regulatory Advisory Council; and
UU works cooperatively with various state agencies
and organizations on issues that include environmental and sustainability concerns as well as
food safety.
For updates on legislative and regulatory
initiatives, members are encouraged to check the
association website often at www.frf.org.
FRF’s full-time “Team Retail” lobbyists work diligently to ensure that retail
issues remain at the forefront year round. They are: (top from left): Rick
McAllister, president and CEO; Sally West, director, government affairs; and John Rogers, senior
vice president and general counsel. Front row (from left): Randy Miller, executive vice president;
and Samantha Hunter Padgett, deputy general counsel, governmental affairs. Sherry Whitney
(front right) serves as the legislative team administrator.
FRF members welcome Sen. Don
Gaetz (R-Destin) to 2011’s Retail
Days at the Capitol.
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OrdinanceWatch and Grassroots
OrdinanceWatch™ has helped
FRF members stay
abreast of local government mandates since 2003. By monitoring a wide range
of issues in all 67 Florida counties and 119 cities, FRF and
OrdinanceWatch™ have assisted both large and small retail
members in combating local initiatives that can snowball
into statewide legislation. Through identifying ordinances
in their beginning stages, FRF has the ability to work with
local government officials to ensure a positive outcome for
FRF members. Additionally, monitoring activity helps FRF
advocate for preemptive statewide legislation when local
governments adopt anti-business ordinances.
In January 2010, for example, the Lake Worth City
Commission began discussion of an anti-graffiti ordinance
that would affect the sale and display of aerosol spray
paint. FRF worked with this local government and as a
result, in November 2010 the ordinance failed. An example
of a recent preemption was the Parking Security Camera
Ordinance which originated in Broward County in 2008.
Concerned that the outcome at the local level was not sufficient to protect its members, FRF initiated efforts to pass
a statewide preemption. In 2009, Governor Charlie Crist
signed Senate Bill 360 preempting local governments
from adopting parking security camera ordinances, in
addition to other growth management provisions.
FRF members can subscribe to OrdinanceWatch™ for
free. Contact Juliet Fogarty at [email protected]
or 1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824) for more information.
RETAIL
SPOTLIGHT
Mr. Fortin and his wife, Judy, opened
their first Play It Again Sports franchise in
Lakeland in 1993. Today, the Fortin’s have
grown their award-winning company to
28 stores throughout Florida and employ
more than 200 people. The stores, which offer new and
used sports and exercise equipment, are part of the
number one sporting goods chain in North America, with
330 locations throughout the United States and Canada.
Mr. Fortin received the Retailer of the Year Award for
Leadership in 2008.
“FRF’s preemption of the security
camera regulation saved our
business thousands of dollars and
the Florida retail community millions.
OrdinanceWatch™ is a unique service
and the Retail Federation utilizes it
in a way that gives me an exponential return on my
FRF membership investment.”
>> Sandy Fortin, Owner,
S & J Sports dba Play It Again Sports, Lakeland Grassroots Network
FRF encourages its members to help make a difference on issues that impact their businesses by
participating in the Team Retail Action Network and
becoming active advocates at the state and federal
levels.
“The goal of FRF’s grassroots network is to improve the legislative environment for the retail industry by encouraging individual company representatives
to voice their opinions on issues that
are particularly important to them,”
says Randy Miller, FRF’s executive
vice president. “Hearing directly from
constituents makes a difference to
legislators and directly complements
the work of FRF staff lobbyists. This
partnership with our members allows
us to get key messages across at critical times and enhances our effectiveness.”
A few of the issues in which FRF
members were called to action in
2010 included:
UU The successful Back-to-School
Sales Tax Holiday campaign. A
study by The Washington Economics Group, Inc., sponsored
by the Florida Retail FoundaFRF and its grassroots network are pushing for
tion, shows that the 2010 threean encore of the sales tax holiday in 2011.
day holiday resulted in a $7 million tax revenue increase to the state rather than a $25 million decrease
in taxes as projected by the state Revenue Estimating Conference.
UU The opposition and subsequent successful defeat of Amendment 4,
which would have required every revision to city and county comprehensive plans to be approved by referendum.
UU On the national level, a call for reasonable and
proportional debit interchange, or
“swipe “fees.
Harnessing the power of
electronic and social media,
members can participate easily with FRF providing email
notification of calls to action,
message and contact details.
Members can sign up
online at www.teamretail.
org or call 1.888.FL.RETAIL
(357.3824).
Senator Mike Fasano (R-New Port Richey) (left) was honored
as FRF’s 2010 Senator of the Year, in part for his work and
sponsorship of the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday legislation.
He is pictured with FRF Chairman Dan Doyle, Beall’s, Inc., who
made the presentation at FRF’s 2010 Annual Meeting in Orlando.
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Political Action, Voter Education
Political Action
An important role of the
AIP Team is to serve as an advisor on the political process.
Working together, FRF and its
members have had extraordinary success
identifying and helping elect candidates
to Florida’s legislative and executive
branches. Ultimately, this has contributed
to producing a business-friendly, growth
oriented, stable environment for our
state. With 2010 a major election year in
which all 120 House seats were up for a
vote as well as 23 of 40 Senate seats, the
AIP Team was especially active.
“From conducting numerous candidate
interviews to helping determine which contenders might best reflect our pro-business
philosophy to providing in-kind and financial
support, we work diligently to expand the
retail industry’s influence in the political
arena,” says Sally West, FRF director of
government affairs.
In all, FRF delivered more than
$816,500 in campaign contributions
during the two-year election cycle. This
included support in 18 Senate races and
69 House races.
In an effort to keep FRF’s committees
of continuous existence fully funded, FRF
recently introduced a special political
action membership program with various
levels of support. In addition to governmental news and grassroots activities
available to all FRF members, political
action membership provides expanded
opportunities for access to campaign
information and special events that give
members the ability to engage candidates in person.
“We are extremely appreciative of our
members who have embraced our expanded
political action concept and look forward
to others joining us in these efforts,” says
West.
Through its committees of continuous
existence (CCEs), commonly known as
political action committees or PACs, FRF
is well-positioned to continue supporting
candidates who are appreciative of the
retail industry’s concerns. The committees, all under the Team Retail brand,
are:
UU FRF Political Action Committee
(FRPAC)
UU FRF Retailers and Merchants PAC
(RAMPAC)
UU FRF Beverage PAC (BEVPAC)
UU FRF Merchants PAC (MPAC)
UU FRF General Retailer PAC (GENPAC)
UU FRF Specialty Retailer PAC (SPECPAC)
UU FRF Pharmacy Council PAC
(PHARMPAC)
UU FRF Home Furnishings PAC
(FURNPAC)
UU FRF Grocery Council PAC
(GROCERYPAC)
UU FRF Quick Service Restaurant PAC
(QUIKPAC)
Addressing FRF members during the 2011 Retail Days
at the Capitol are Speaker of the House Dean Cannon
(R-Winter Park) (front) and Senate President Mike
Haridopolos (R-Melbourne).
Rep. Mike Horner (R-Kissimmee) (center) with
FRF members Steve Arthur, Stateside Associates
representing Kohl’s, Inc., Washington, DC, and Cindi
Marsiglio, Walmart, Tallahassee, at a special event for
PAC members held in conjunction with FRF’s October
2010 Annual Meeting in Orlando.
Voter Education
Florida Mainstreet Merchants (FMM), an affiliate of FRF, is an electioneering communications organization
dedicated to ensuring Florida’s voters are well-informed on legislative issues and candidates’ positions. Especially
active during the last election cycle, FMM’s team of political
experts conducts extensive statewide research to identify candidate profiles and
their policy positions. They then work cooperatively with FMM supporters on
messages that are delivered to voters through various media including electronic,
direct mail and phone banks. FMM, founded in 2003, operates independent of
direction from any campaigns and doesn’t directly endorse candidates or support
them for election.
Supporters may make unlimited contributions to FMM from either personal or
corporate accounts as well as from political action committees and committees
of continuous existence.
FMM helps educate voters about candidates’ positions through
direct mail and other means.
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Meetings and Networking
In addition to numerous sector-specific committee meetings, coalition events, and council gatherings throughout the year, FRF hosts several
major meetings which are relevant for all members.
“We offer a blend of social and networking opportunities with educational
sessions that address timely industry topics such as the economy, government
regulation, and politics,” says Elaine Mann Carpenter, CAE, FRF’s vice president of membership and operations.
The Mid-Year Meeting, which in 2010 was held June 23 and 24 in Orlando at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, featured the Retailer
of the Year Award for Leadership luncheon and Florida Retail Masters
graduation events. The 2010 Annual Meeting, also hosted in Orlando,
offered expanded activities through being held in conjunction with the
Retail Beverage Council’s Annual Educational Seminar and Trade Show. An
increasingly popular annual gathering is Retail Days at the Capitol, hosted
in Tallahassee in February before the start of the Legislative Session.
All retail members are invited to participate in FRF meetings. Details
and registration information about upcoming events are available at
www.frf.org.
3
4
1
1. Participating in an FRF board meeting
are (from left): Tom Petrillo, The Salon
People / Aveda, St. Petersburg; John
Mullin, Office Depot, Delray Beach; and
Rey Montoto, Kash n’ Karry / Sweetbay
Supermarkets, Tampa.
2. Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi
speaks to members during 2011’s Retail
Days at the Capitol.
3. Networking at the 2010 Annual Meeting
held October 10-13 at the Hyatt Regency
Grand Cypress are (from left): Luanne
Lenberg, Sawgrass Mills, Sunrise; and
Victor and Mary Gavalas, Nic’s Toggery,
Tallahassee.
4. Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll addressed
members at an event during 2011’s Retail
Days at the Capitol held February 21-23
in Tallahassee. She was also honored as
FRF’s 2010 Representative of the Year,
accepting her award from FRF Chairman
Dan Doyle, Beall’s, Inc., Bradenton.
2
Please Join Us for the
Upcoming 2011 Events
Mid-Year Meeting and
Retail Masters Graduation
with Retailer of the Year
Award for Leadership
Held in conjunction with the
University of Florida’s
Retail Smarter Symposium
June 22-23
Caribe Royale
Orlando
Annual Meeting
Held in conjunction with the
Retail Beverage Council’s
Annual Educational Seminar
and Trade Show
October 9-12
Omni Orlando Resort at
ChampionsGate
Orlando
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2011 Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Daniel J. Doyle
Chairman of the Board
Beall’s, Inc.
Bradenton, FL
Debbie Harvey
Chairman, Executive
Committee
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Cocoa Beach, FL
Tom Petrillo
The Salon People / Aveda
St. Petersburg, FL
Advisory Member of the
Executive Committee
Charles R. Wintz, CPA
Charles R. Wintz, CPA, PA
Jacksonville, FL
Retail Council
Paul Imbrone
Vice Chairman
Macy’s, Inc.
Miami, FL
W.R. “Sandy” Fortin
Treasurer
Play It Again Sports
Lakeland, FL
Richard A. McAllister
President and CEO
Florida Retail Federation
Tallahassee, FL
At-Large Members of the
Executive Committee
Dean Elliott
Dillard’s, Inc.
Little Rock, AR
Steve Arthur
Stateside Associates
representing Kohl’s, Inc.
Washington, DC
Bob Atkinson
Chico’s FAS
Fort Myers, FL
Michael J. Ayotte
CVS Caremark
Richmond, VA
Wogan Badcock, III
Badcock Home Furniture &
More
Mulberry, FL
Casey Cesnovar
Walgreen Co.
Deerfield, IL
Victor Gavalas
Nic’s Toggery
Tallahassee, FL
Ken DeHart
JC Penney
Tallahassee, FL
Cindi Marsiglio
Walmart Stores, Inc.
Tallahassee, FL
Jacob DiPietre
Walt Disney World Co.
Lake Buena Vista, FL
“FRF’s resources are invaluable for a
business of our size. From credit card
processing to loss prevention assistance,
to the opportunity to network and interact
with other retailers of all sizes and types
throughout the state, our membership
provides us with business tools needed to grow and
succeed. Particularly through serving on the board of
directors, I look forward to the opportunity to share the
value of membership with other small business owners.” >> Rory Eggers, President
Foremost Beverage Group, Orange Park
RETAIL
SPOTLIGHT
Rory Eggers has worked in his
family’s businesses for 15 years.
They include The Roadhouse, an
Orange Park bar and live music
venue founded in 1976, and
Foremost Liquors & Wines, a liquor store chain
with locations in Orange Park, Fleming Island,
and Middleburg. In 2006, the family created the
Foremost Beverage Group, a cooperative buying
initiative that helps independent businesses such
as theirs negotiate competitive prices and enhance
their opportunities in the marketplace. Together,
the businesses provide jobs for approximately 52
Floridians. Mr. Eggers is a 2009 graduate of the
Florida Retail Masters program.
“Our company has been a member of
FRF and participated in the workers’
compensation insurance program for
some time. Participating in the Retail
Masters program, however, gave me
a new perspective on the pivotal role
FRF plays in numerous issues affecting our industry
and on the importance of getting involved. I look
forward to offering the board of directors a familyowned, small business point of view.”
>> Melanie Lee, General Manager
Kia AutoSportS, Tallahassee
RETAIL
SPOTLIGHT
From a used car lot in 1991, to
purchasing their first KIA franchise
in 1997, the Lee family has
successfully grown their business
through hard work and treating
their employees and customers well. In addition
to Tallahassee, the family owns and operates KIA
dealerships in Pensacola, as well as Albany and
Columbus, GA. They employ approximately 200
people. Ms. Lee is a 2010 graduate of the Florida
Retail Masters program.
Rory Eggers
Foremost Beverage Group
Orange Park, FL
John B. Lowe
SeaWorld of Florida
Orlando, FL
Anika Hagenson
Target Corporation
Minneapolis, MN
Kevin Lundy
YUM! Brands, Inc.
Louisville, KY
Geoffrey Hawkins
PetSmart
Phoenix, AZ
Bruce Mitchell
Rally Stores, Inc.
Clearwater, FL
Mitch Klein
Bravo Supermarkets
White Plains, NY
Mike Mitchell
Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Lakeland, FL
Vickie Kunkle
Hard Rock International
Orlando, FL
Rey Montoto
Kash n’ Karry / Sweetbay
Supermarkets
Tampa, FL
Melanie Lee
Kia AutoSports
Tallahassee, FL
Luanne E. Lenberg
Sawgrass Mills
Sunrise, FL
FRF gratefully
acknowledges
Dr. Bart Weitz,
founding director of
the David F. Miller
Center for Retailing
Education and
Research at the University of Florida.
Dr. Weitz has skillfully led the daily
operations of the Center for the past
24 years. We look forward to his
continued guidance and expertise
on FRF’s board of directors and as
the Center’s Executive Director
Emeritus.
Ray Pohlman
Auto Zone, Inc.
Memphis, TN
Scott Reams
Best Buy
Tampa, FL
Bob Smith
Albertsons, Inc.
Lake Mary, FL
Henry Tucker
Southside Package & Lounge, Inc.
Lakeland, FL
Marian Wikenczy
Sears
Orlando, FL
Senior Advisory Council
Dr. Susan Fiorito
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
M. Clayton Hollis, Jr.
Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Lakeland, FL
Stephen M. Knopik
Beall’s, Inc.
Bradenton, FL
William Kundrat, Jr.
RetailFirst
Sun City Center, FL
Warren R. McCurry
Killarney, FL
John Mullen
Office Depot
Delray Beach, FL
Nis H. Nissen, III
Nissen Advertising, Inc.
Lakeland, FL
W. Kelly Palmer
The Hayloft, Inc.
Fort Myers, FL
Thomas S. Petcoff
Baron Realty, Inc.
Lakeland, FL
“I’m excited about the opportunity to
contribute to the state’s retailing industry
through service on the Florida Retail
Federation board of directors. Sears has
been an active member of FRF since 1957,
with our representatives holding various
leadership positions. I’m honored to be a part of this
longstanding, beneficial partnership.”
>> Marian Wikenczy
District Manager Retail Services
Sears, Orlando
Ron Sacino
Sacino’s Formalwear
St. Petersburg, FL
George Sandefer
Rutherfords, Inc.
Palatka, FL
Carol Sipe
Summit
Lakeland, FL
Dr. Bart A. Weitz
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Michael Zagorac, Jr.
Largo, FL
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Florida Retail Foundation
The Florida Retail Foundation Chairman’s Circle, formed in 2007, is a
special group of organizations and businesses that understands the significant value of the retail industry to Florida’s economy as well as to their own
operations.
“The Chairman’s Circle
and the Florida Retail Foundation have developed a bond of
support that creates a proud
relationship of mutual benefit,”
says Jacey Kaps, Esq., who
serves as Chairman of the
group and is a partner with
Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell,
P.A., Miami. “As the Chairman’s Circle has grown, it has
formed a pillar on which the
FRF can rely for support and
friendship. Membership in
Attending a Chairman’s Circle meeting in February
the Chairman’s Circle confers
2011 are (from left): Jacey Kaps; Molly Jennings,
both great access and benefits
The Scott Miracle-Gro Company, West Palm Beach;
and Greg Cope, Florida Power and Light, West Palm
beyond what can be anticipated
Beach.
when the relationship is first
formed. I am delighted by our progress and look forward to the collaboration to
come.”
Just a few of the elite Chairman’s Circle benefits include:
UU special opportunities to market products and services;
UU website inclusion and recognition in various publications and at FRF
meetings;
UU one complimentary meeting registration per year; and
UU opportunities to network with Florida retail leaders.
“We are extremely appreciative of our Chairman’s Circle members and their
generous support, be it contributing informative, industry-specific presentations
to hosting hospitality events at our major meetings,” says Elaine Mann Carpenter, CAE, FRF vice president of membership and operations, and Chairman’s
Circle liaison. “We look forward to welcoming more members into the Chairman’s Circle and expanding opportunities for mutual benefit and success.”
For further information about the Chairman’s Circle, contact Elaine at
1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824) or visit www.frf.org.
“As a manufacturer of food products sold in retail stores, we
have many issues of mutual concern with the retail industry.
Membership in the Chairman’s Circle, therefore, is a good
fit for our company. First, it allows us a great opportunity
to connect with our retail partners on a deeper level and
work cooperatively on issues that affect us. Second, from a Florida Retail
Foundation perspective, the Chairman’s Circle serves as a think tank to
collaborate with Florida’s retailers and provide input on strategic issues
important to the retail industry.”
>> Steven J. Lezman, Director
Government Affairs, Pepsico, Bradenton
Mission of the
Florida Retail Foundation:
The Florida Retail Foundation enhances and
supports the state’s retail industry and the Florida Retail
Federation through leadership development,
training, research and education.
Foundation sponsored research projects on behalf of the retail
industry include the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Study
and resources that include a Shoplifting Prevention Campaign.
The mission of the Florida Retail Foundation’s
Chairman Circle is to partner with the Florida
Retail Federation and its members to educate and
create mutually beneficial relationships that can
enhance the businesses of both the Florida Retail
Federation membership and the members of the
Chairman’s Circle.
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Florida Retail Masters
Building Leaders, Building Businesses
An increasingly sophisticated global marketplace spurred by a worldwide economy, shifting demographics, government and legislative intervention, and technological advances
such as Internet marketing potentials that can help small businesses compete with larger
chains are transforming the retail industry and, ultimately, the need for retailers to be
savvy on numerous fronts. Enter, Florida Retail Masters.
Florida Retail Masters (FRM) is an intense
leadership development program created in
2005 to cultivate key future retail industry
leaders and help prepare them to compete
with cutting-edge effectiveness. Sponsored
by the Florida Retail Foundation, FRM was
designed exclusively for up-and-coming retail
executives from all sizes and types of businesses.
Highlights of the annual Tallahassee Florida Retail
Masters session include meeting with legislators,
learning about the impact of government upon the
retail industry, and addressing the importance of being
an active industry advocate. Rep. Denise Grimsley
(R-Sebring) speaks to participants at the Capitol in
February 2011.
Through the years, industry newcomers
as well as seasoned retailers representing
family-owned proprietorships to international
chains have benefited from the FRM program.
“Participants gain the knowledge, experience,
resources and connections they need to take their
companies — and themselves — to the top,” says
John Rogers, FRF’s senior vice president and
general counsel, who manages FRM. “More
than one in three of our graduates have been
promoted within their companies after going
through the program. We’re extremely proud of
the successes of our alumni and its reflection of
the value of the Retail Masters program.”
Candidates for the FRM program are
Florida Retail Foundation
selected based on their commitment and
motivation, leadership potential and support
of their sponsoring business or organization.
Each month, from January through June,
class members attend a series of three-day
sessions in various locations throughout the
state. Featured are industry experts and guest
speakers addressing a range of topics from
demographics and marketing to Florida’s varied cultures, the economy, government and
political affairs, career development, motivation, and leadership. Team building activities,
networking, and a special “Retail Road Trip”
are part of each session. Road Trips in 2010
included: the renowned Columbia Restaurant
during the Clearwater session; Ron Jon’s
World Headquarters and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration during the
Cocoa Beach session; and Disney Corporation during the session in Orlando.
Partnering with FRF since the program’s
inception is Catch Your Limit Consulting, a
strategic management and marketing firm.
The company coordinates the professional
development and leadership components of
the curriculum.
Florida Retail Masters graduates continue
to promote the retail industry and stay connected through the Retail Masters Alumni
Network. Each graduating class is given the
opportunity to launch a legacy project which,
to date, have addressed issues such as leadership as well as the perception of retailing as a
career choice among Florida’s high school and
college graduates.
“We are deeply appreciative of retail companies that support the Retail Masters series,“ says
Rogers. “We look forward to sharing this exciting
program with others.”
For more information about the Florida
Retail Masters program visit www.FloridaRetailMasters.com or call 1.888.FL.RETAIL
(357.3824).
The 2010 Florida Retail Masters were
celebrated at a special graduation ceremony on
June 23, 2010, in Orlando.
Florida Retail Masters
Class of 2010
FRF is appreciative of the retail
companies that support Retail
Masters. Congratulations to our 2010
Florida Retail Masters graduates and
best wishes for continued success!
Participants are listed as pictured in the
photo above.
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17
Mission of the
Florida Retail Masters:
The mission of Florida Retail Masters
is to broaden participants’ understanding
of retailing in Florida, encourage strong
leadership skills, develop understanding of
Florida’s economic climate and the role retailing plays in Florida’s economy, and create a
lifetime network of business associates.
Front row:
Back row:
Jim Greene
Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista
Vincent Foderingham
Beall’s, Inc.
Bradenton
Irene Rowe
Target Corporation
Port St. Lucie
Erik Haines
Winn-Dixie Stores
Jacksonville
Mark Royer
Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Port Charlotte
Erica Jensen
Sweetbay Supermarket
Fort Myers
Jeff Henderson
Belk Department Stores
Lakeland
Richard Sanchez
Bravo Super Markets
Tampa
Ashleigh Amburn
Florida Retail Federation
Tallahassee
Jackie Donovan
Walgreen Co.
Riverview
Bobby Borges
Best Buy
Tampa
Emily Badcock
Badcock Home
Furniture & More
Mulberry
Jim Lashley
Landscape
Supply Company
Orlando
Melanie Lee
Kia AutoSports
Tallahassee
Eric Vincent
White House /
Black Market
Fort Myers
Tom Zemaitis
Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Lantana
“The Retail Masters program
was very impactful for me
and my professional growth. All aspects of the program,
from the learning sessions to
our Legacy project provided
an enormous amount of
value. The road trips particularly were my
favorite, be it learning how Disney takes
a product from concept to design to store
integration, or the successful launch of a
Publix Sabor grocery store that caters to a
specific ethnic population, each session’s
road trip provided a valuable opportunity to
see theoretical concepts put into practice. I
also gained a greater appreciation of the
impact and power we retailers can have on
our own industry by becoming politically
involved through the Florida Retail
Federation. The most valuable part was
networking with my peers in the program
and developing long lasting relationships
where we will all continue to stay connected
and share in our future success.”
>> Vincent Foderingham
Divisional Vice President
Risk Management, Corporate & Supply Services
Beall’s Inc., Bradenton
“One of the real
strengths of the Retail
Masters program is the
contacts you make and
the friends you keep. It
is always great to hear
how others run their
businesses to see if any of their best
practices can help my business. They
are invaluable resources!”
The 2010 Retail Masters present a Larry King-inspired skit to help launch their legacy scholarship program in Orlando.
>> Jim Greene, Manager, Merchandise Planning
Disney Theme Park Merchandise
Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista
Florida Retail Foundation
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Industry Awards
The Florida Retail Federation proudly recognizes its 2010
award recipients for their commitment to excellence and
their significant contributions to Florida’s retail industry
and the state. Please see our additional award winners on
pages 7, 11, and 13.
Chairman’s Award
FRF Board Chairman Dan Doyle (left) honors
Jacey Kaps with the Chairman’s Award on
October 12 in Orlando.
Jacey Kaps is a founding member of Florida Retail Foundation’s
prestigious Chairman’s Circle.
As the Circle’s Chairman since its
inaugural year, Mr. Kaps has worked
tirelessly both within and outside
of FRF to help grow the Circle into a
dynamic group that provides value
to FRF as well as Circle members.
For his outstanding leadership
and commitment, Mr. Kaps was
recognized with the distinguished
Chairman’s Award by Dan Doyle,
Beall’s, Inc., during FRF’s 2010
Annual Meeting. Mr. Kaps, who
resides in Cooper City, is a partner
and manages the retail law group
within the Florida-based law firm
of Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell. An
active defense attorney, he focuses
on representing domestic retail,
restaurant and lodging sectors. His
retail law group represents a wide
range of clients and possesses the
depth and capabilities to handle
issues ranging from labor and Medicare compliance to construction
disputes and casualty litigation. He
also consults with the retail sector
in overall litigation management.
Retailer of the Year Award for Leadership
Florida Assistant State
Attorney of the Year
Award
June A. Leonard, Assistant
State Attorney
with the 8th Judicial Circuit, was named FRF’s 2010
Florida Assistant State Attorney of
the Year. She was honored, in part,
for her work managing the Circuit’s
Check Fraud Division. Each year,
the division handles thousands of
cases, mostly involving bad checks
given to businesses. In 2009, more
than 4,500 worthless checks were
processed by her division, which
resulted in more than $600,000 in
restitution recovered for nearly 400
businesses and other victims of
worthless checks. Ms. Leonard also
works to educate business community members regarding check
fraud and restitution, providing a
way for businesses to save time and
money in court. She has worked as
a prosecutor in the 8th Judicial Circuit, which includes Alachua, Baker,
Bradford, Gilchrist, Levy and Union
counties, since 1995.
FRF’s 2010 Florida Assistant State Attorney
of the Year June A. Leonard with 8th Judicial
State Attorney William P. Cervone, who
nominated her for the award. Photo courtesy
of Russ Clendenin
2010 Retailer of the Year recipients include (from left): Dave
and Karen West, The Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium, Brandon;
Kira Powell, Hard Rock Cafe, Orlando, represented by Tony
Sarcomo and Gian Bonfanti; and Stephanie and Jeff Schorr,
Craftsman House Gallery, St. Petersburg.
Since 1999,
the annual
Retailer of
the Year
Award for
Leadership (ROYAL) awards
program highlights some of
Florida’s many outstanding
retailers who excel by blending
astute business practices with
commitment to their customers, communities, employees
and the state’s retail industry.
The 2010 ROYAL recipients
were honored on June 24 at
an awards luncheon held in
conjunction with the University of Florida’s David F. Miller
Center for Retailing Education
and Research’s Retail Smarter
conference and FRF’s MidYear Meeting in Orlando.
JEFF AND
STEPHANIE SCHORR,
The Craftsman House Gallery,
St. Petersburg, www.craftsmanhousegallery.com,
Less than $1 million category
Jeff and Stephanie Schorr
founded the Craftsman House
Gallery five years ago with
a mission of bringing their
love of craftsmanship, great
music and good food to the
community. The result: an
award-winning gallery housed
in an authentically restored
1918 Arts and Crafts bungalow featuring the creations of
more than 300 national and
local artisans. Also included
are a café, a pottery studio, an
artist-in-residence program,
and a monthly concert series
featuring national performers.
The Schorrs have contributed
significantly to the city’s art
scene and downtown business district. Mr. Schorr
founded and leads St. Pete
Independent Network (SPIN),
which promotes and educates
customers on the benefits of
supporting local, independent businesses. He was also
instrumental in bringing the
Central Avenue Shuttle to St.
Petersburg, which connects 32
blocks of the city’s main retail
corridor. The Schorrs lead by
example through helping raise
money for numerous causes
and embracing environmental
stewardship.
F l o r i da R e ta i l F e d e rat i o n
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19
Florida Retail Federation
Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
Foods of Tampa Bay” to unite local quality food producers with
area restaurant and grocery
store operators. The Wests support community organizations
including the Brandon Nativity
Food Bank, the Moffitt Cancer
Center and the Alpha House
of Tampa Bay, where Mr. West
teaches cooking classes to atrisk mothers and mothers-to-be.
DAVE AND KAREN WEST,
The Rolling Pin Kitchen
Emporium, Bradenton,
www.rollingpinonline.com,
$1 million to $10 million
category
Dave and Karen West
opened their first Rolling Pin
Kitchen Emporium in 1995
and a second location in
Tampa in 1997. In 2006 their
dreams became a reality
when they combined 3,500
square feet of retail space
with a 1,000 square foot
Culinary Center. With a mix
of hard-to-find, old-fashioned
items, trendy tools, gourmet
foods, and a coffee and tea
center, the Rolling Pin is the
culinary resource for Brandon
area “foodies.” Their wellstocked online store helps
expand their market. The
Wests seek out products and
services from local vendors
whenever possible. Mr.
West, formally trained at The
French Culinary Institute in
New York City, heads up The
Rolling Pin’s cooking classes.
He also works with “Slow
KIRA POWELL,
Hard Rock Café, Orlando,
www.hardrock.com, More than
$10 million category
Kira Powell began her career
in retailing as a teenager working at a family-owned record
store in Cleveland. Although
unaware of it at the time, the experience and knowledge gained
there ultimately helped shape
her career choices and lead to a
20-year retail profession chockfull of challenges and successes.
Ms. Powell joined the Hard Rock
team in Myrtle Beach, SC, in
2000 and transferred to the
Orlando Hard Rock in 2003. As
general manager of retail, she is
responsible for millions of dollars in annual sales in both the
café and hotel stores and manages some 500 employees. She
is also involved in training all
levels of management for Hard
Rock’s international cafes and,
as a regional manager, oversees
retail operations in multiple locations in various states. Among
numerous good will efforts,
Hard Rock Orlando’s Ambassador Program, with Ms. Powell’s
leadership, annually organizes
and funds a special Lunch with
Santa for 400 to 700 Orlando
area children.
Detective John G. Tritt of the Orlando Police Department
was honored as FRF’s 2010 Law Enforcement Officer of the
Year (LEOY) at an October 12 awards banquet during FRF’s
Annual Meeting in Orlando. He regularly serves the retail
industry in his capacity as an Economic Crimes Detective in
the department’s Criminal Investigations Division investigating credit card
frauds, check fraud schemes, identity theft and embezzlements. As case
agent, his success at managing an investigation last year that shut down a
counterfeit designer goods ring in Orlando helped secure his selection as
the LEOY recipient. Working with retail loss prevention specialists on a tip
that counterfeit designer goods were being sold at a flea market near one
of Orlando’s major tourist and shopping areas, Detective Tritt directed an
investigation that included controlled purchases, surveillance, and other
investigative techniques. Ultimately, thousands of counterfeit items such
as purses, clothing, shoes, accessories and clothing were seized along with
money, cash registers, catalogs, and credit card scanners. The operation, a
resounding success, resulted in the seizure of items with a total retail value
of more than $2.9 million. Defendants were charged with various infractions
and the case was cleared and closed by arrest.
Detective Tritt is a 12-year veteran of the department. He joins 40 previous LEOY recipients who represent various branches of law enforcement including police departments and sheriff’s offices, the Florida Department of
Law Enforcement, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission, and the Florida Department of Business and
Professional Regulation.
Officer Sean Bergert of the Aventura Police Department, selected as
the runner-up, was honored at the October 12 banquet for his work combating organized retail crime and fraud. Selected for Honorable Mentions and
honored locally were: Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Adam Heinlein, Fort
Myers, and the team of Cpl. Barry Trombley and Sgt. George Searing of
the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
FRF’s annual LEOY program was established in 1974 to support and
recognize outstanding Florida law enforcement professionals, particularly
those who contribute to the retail industry.
Members of the Orlando Police Department participating in the 2010 LEOY ceremony are
(from left): Sgt. Amy Ameye, who nominated 2010 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
recipient Detective John Tritt; and Orlando Chief of Police Val Demings. Dennis Wamsley,
director of loss prevention for Publix Super Markets, Inc., and chairman of FRF’s LEOY
selection committee (right) presided over the presentations.
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2 0 1 0 / 2 0 1 1 S T A TE O F F LO R ID A R e t a i l i n g R e p o r t
FRFbiz.com:
More Resources for Small Business
FRF Focuses on Helping Small Businesses — Our Top Job Creators —
Cut Expenses and Grow the Top Line
Small businesses are
responsible for about 75 percent
of the net new jobs added to the
economy in any given year. The
Florida Retail Federation is renewing its focus on our top job creators
with an effort to give them the help
and information they need to cut
their expenses and grow revenue.
At our newly launched website
— FRFbiz.com — FRF members
now have a single online destination to find the information and
resources they need to succeed
and grow. FRFbiz.com links to our
large selection of cost-saving and
revenue-generating products and
services including:
UU Credit-card processing with
Florida Bankcard Solutions*
UU Workers’ compensation insurance with RetailFirst
UU Local government monitoring
with OrdinanceWatch™
UU Business training services
through LearnSomething.com*
UU Small business lending information and advice
UU Shipping discounts through
PartnerShip*
UU Customer gift and loyalty card
programs
UU Check processing and check
guarantee programs
UU Professional assistance with
taxes and regulation
*Products of Florida Retail Services, Inc.
Please refer to the website
for a complete list of services.
Social Media
FRFbiz.com is also expanding the FRF footprint in
social media with a presence on the popular online
networks Facebook and Twitter. As small businesses
increasingly turn to social media as a cost-effective way
to connect with their customers, FRF is staying with our
members and setting the pace in new media.
Facebook, in particular, has grown in popularity with small businesses over the past year, as many have sought out more affordable ways to advertise locally. Facebook, one of the easiest social
media sites for small businesses to use, recently surpassed Google
as the most popular online service for local business advertising.
According to one survey, 70 percent of local merchants are now using Facebook to market their businesses, an increase from only 50
percent a year ago.
Low-cost or no-cost marketing and public relations — combined with the ability to micro-target customers by demographic
or geographic areas — have lured more small businesses than ever
into social media.
As online marketing increasingly shifts toward social networks, FRF is committed to maintaining its position as the most
qualified and committed advocate for Florida’s small businesses.
Check us out online
at www.FRFbiz.com
and join the effort
to support Florida’s
entrepreneurs and
small businesses.
Sign up to our email
list for news and
updates on practical
tips, tools and
strategies to help
businesses grow.
F l o r i da R e ta i l F e d e rat i o n | 21
Team Retail Professional Staff
Whether it’s a single-store operator or executives from a global chain, the knowledgeable,
professional staff of the Florida Retail Federation and Florida Retail Federation Services, Inc.,
is committed to helping its members achieve their goals. Team Retail is dedicated solely to
serving the retail industry of Florida.
1. Richard A. McAllister,
president and chief
executive officer
2. Elaine Mann Carpenter,
CAE, vice president,
membership and
operations
3. Debra A. Crow, chief
financial officer
4. John Fleming, director of
communications
5. Juliet Fogarty,
director of operations,
OrdinanceWatch™
6. Crystal Laake, regional
territory manager, Florida
Bankcard Solutions
7. Randy Miller, executive
vice president
8. Samantha Hunter Padgett,
deputy general counsel,
governmental affairs
9. John A. Rogers, Jr., senior
vice president and general
counsel
10. Sherry S. Spencer,
director, information
services
11. Joy Spillers, database
specialist
12. Jon Stolp, vice president,
Florida Bankcard Solutions
13. Keith Wemm, vice
president, outreach
14. Sally West, director,
government affairs
15. LaShunda White, finance
assistant
16. Sherry Whitney,
legislative team
administrator
17. Tara Whitney, manager of
administration
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PRE-SORTED
STANDARD
US POSTAGE
PAID
TALLAHASSEE, FL
PERMIT #422
227 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301-1720
FRF is Committed to the Retail Industry of Florida
Our Mission
Contact Us!
The Florida Retail Federation’s mission is to advocate, promote, and safeguard retailing.
Our Core Values
At the Florida Retail Federation, we believe in…
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Florida and its future
Relationships
Honoring our commitments
The retail industry and its future
Profitability
Leadership
FRF’s permanent headquarters is
strategically located just steps from
Florida’s Capitol building in historical
Gallie’s Hall. Completed in 1874, Gallie’s
Hall is officially listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. Under FRF’s
watch since 1982, the prominent site has
been reestablished as a convenient meeting
place and focal point in the community.
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Innovation and creativity
Sound public policy
Social responsibility
Diversity
Representative democracy
Our Industry
From providing jobs for 20
percent of Florida’s workforce
to collecting and remitting
approximately $22 billion in
sales and retail-related taxes for
Florida’s government each year,
a vital retail industry is critical
to the overall economic health
of our state. The economy is
stimulated further by retailers’
impact on manufacturing,
distribution, construction,
e-commerce and other industries
that benefit from a thriving retail
market.
This report is printed on a
paper containing 10% postconsumer waste recycled
content using soy and other
vegetable based inks.
Address
Florida Retail Federation
227 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301-1720
Telephone Numbers
1.850.222.4082
Outside Tallahassee and National Toll-Free
1.888.FL.RETAIL (357.3824)
Fax Number
1.850.561.6625
Website
www.frf.org
Publication Credits
Editor / Writer: Brenda S. Grindstaff
Project Manager: Elaine Mann Carpenter, CAE
Design: Pomegranate Studio, Inc.
Contributing Photographer: Ray Stanyard
The Florida Retail Federation thanks its many
members and friends of retailing who contributed
to this report and whose time and efforts helped
make this publication possible.