One of the largest state retail organizations in the U.S., IRMA represents more than 20,000 stores of all sizes and merchandise lines across Illinois.
Springfield, IL
Joined February 2015
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Retail employs one out of every four Illinoisans, and this Wednesday we're celebrating the people behind the stats. IRMA's 69th Annual Meeting and 2026 Retailer of the Year Luncheon is Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Palmer House Hilton Hotel in Chicago, where we'll recognize this year's Retailer of the Year and IRMA Leadership Award recipients.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Happy Sweetest Day! The holiday got its start right here in the Midwest, and it's a reminder to show appreciation for the people who matter, whether that's a box of chocolates from a local candy shop, flowers from a neighborhood florist or a card from an independent bookstore. Illinois retailers are ready to help you make someone's day a little sweeter.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Illinois State Rep. Dan Swanson visited a Hy-Vee store in Galesburg on Oct. 2, and while he was there, he presented Shelby Morton with a certificate from the House of Representatives. Shelby placed second in IRMA’s inaugural Illinois Best Bagger Competition that was held in August.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Get ready to visit, connect and WIN at IRMA’s Annual Meeting and 2026 Retailer of the Year Luncheon! During the reception hour, stop by the exhibitor tables, meet with IRMA’s Mission Partners, learn about the valuable products, services, and resources they offer, AND have the chance to win one of three prizes! The more tables you visit, the more chances you have to win.
Prizes include a grill courtesy of Lowe’s, a TV courtesy of Abt Electronics, and a liquor basket courtesy of Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and Affiliated Marketing.
We can’t wait to see the great connections happening this year!
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
The 2026 Illinois General Assembly fall veto session is scheduled for November 17–19 and December 1–3. Lawmakers will convene in Springfield at the Statehouse for these six days to consider legislation vetoed by the governor. IRMA will be watching for any provisions that affect Illinois retailers and will keep members updated as the session unfolds.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Retail is more than ringing up purchases. At Baby Doll's Boutique in Chicago, owner Vanessa Rodriguez has built a specialty shop known for handmade, one-of-a-kind baby and mommy pieces, and a business rooted in connection, creativity and community. Watch her story.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA #IRMAWeAreRetail
IRMA represents Illinois retailers of every size, from independent shops to major chains, working with policymakers and the public on the issues that shape retail in Illinois. For decades, IRMA has been the voice of an industry that touches nearly every community in the state.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
IRMA's We Are Retail campaign celebrates the retailers who keep Illinois communities running, from local shops to thriving small businesses across the state. The campaign connects retail owners and career seekers alike, supporting the people building their future in Illinois retail.
#IRMAWeAreRetail #IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Are you prepared? This week is Fire Prevention Week, marking the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire that began October 8, 1871. More than 150 years later, fire safety remains just as important for Illinois retailers protecting their employees, customers and stores. IRMA encourages members to take a look at their fire safety plans this week.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
This week is Customer Service Week, a chance to recognize the retail employees across Illinois who greet customers, solve problems and keep stores running every day. From the sales floor to the register, these are the people who make Illinois retail work. Thank you to everyone in the industry who shows up for customers day after day.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Semillas is a plant shop with heart. Co-founded by Angélica Varela and Miguel Rivera in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, Semillas celebrates cultural heritage, local artistry and nature. That authenticity carries from the shop to their social media, where every post reflects their values. Watch their story.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA #IRMAWeAreRetail
IRMA launched Illinois' first state-funded retail apprenticeship program earlier this year, connecting students and job seekers with hands-on training in the retail industry. Retailers are already celebrating the program's early successes. IRMA is proud to help build the next generation of retail talent in Illinois.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Cargo theft around Labor Day has increased 70% nationally over five years, rising from 33 incidents in 2021 to 56 in 2025, according to a recent report by Verisk CargoNet. Theft is most concentrated in the days immediately before and after the holiday, when freight activity and staffing levels create opportunities for organized theft rings. California, Texas, and Illinois were the top three targeted states. The trend highlights the need for heightened vigilance around holiday freight schedules and the importance of collaboration across the supply chain.
#IllinoisRetail #IRMA
Source: verisk.com/company/newsroom/…
