The National Retail Federation (NRF) has named the five finalists for the title of America’s 2022 Retail Champion of the Year. The award, now in its sixth year, honors small retailers who make a mark on public policy debates affecting the retail industry. The winner will be announced July 28 at the NRF Retail Advocates Summit in Washington, D.C.
The finalists are:
- Margaret Barrow of It’s NOLA, a snack company in Brooklyn, N.Y.;
- Jessica Bettencourt of Klem’s hardware, gifts and clothing store in Spencer, Mass.;
- Bobby Djavaheri of Yedi Houseware in Los Angeles;
- April McClung of Emily’s Heirloom Pound Cakes in Homewood, Ala.; and
- Danny Reynolds of boutique clothing store Stephenson’s of Elkhart in Elkhart, Ind.
More than 30 businesses, ranging from online sellers to small and mid-size store owners, were nominated by state retail associations and their peers based on engagement in public policy discussions at the local, state and national level.
“Small business owners live and work in communities large and small across America and they are exceptional advocates for the retail industry, their associates and the customers they serve,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay in a statement. “NRF is proud to recognize these individuals for taking the lead in advancing policy initiatives that are critical to the continued growth and success of the retail industry.”
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This year’s program is sponsored by the Affirm payment network.
