Description

Bring In The Customers: Making It Easier for Shoppers to Support Your Small Business 

Featuring Guest Speaker from the Michigan Retailers Association

Today’s customers have more choices than ever — and their expectations have changed. From how they discover businesses to how (and where) they shop, small businesses that succeed are the ones that meet customers where they already are and remove friction from the buying experience.

In this practical, idea-packed session, we’ll explore smart, approachable ways to attract and engage customers — both in-person and online — without losing what makes your business uniquely yours. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of what it really means to “meet your customers where they are,” and how creating easy, positive experiences can drive growth, loyalty, and long-term success.

In This Session, We'll Cover:

• Curb Appeal That Converts - Simple, high-impact ways to create a strong first impression and invite customers inside 
• In-Person Experiences That Stick - Driving foot traffic and creating memorable moments that keep shoppers coming back  
• E-Commerce & Digital Touchpoints - The role of online shopping and reducing friction in the customer journey
• Loyalty Programs That Actually Build Loyalty – Encouraging repeat visits without overcomplicating things
• Community Engagement & Events – Turning local connections into a competitive advantage

Throughout the session, the focus will be on accessibility, consistency, and ease — helping customers support your business in ways that fit their lifestyles, habits, and preferences.

You'll Leave This Session With:

• Practical ideas you can implement right away
• A clearer understanding of how customers engage today
• Fresh perspective on aligning your in-store and online experiences to build loyalty

Whether you run a storefront, sell online, or do a bit of both, this session is designed to help you create customer-first experiences that make it easier to say “yes” — and keep people coming back.

About Burke Sage, CPP

Manager, Business Development 

Burke Sage joined MRA in July 2000, bringing with him nearly a decade of experience in human resources and sales & marketing. Following in his family’s entrepreneurial footsteps, he owned a small ice cream parlor/coffee shop in the Grand Rapids area for several years. As a Manager of Business Development, his primary responsibilities are outside sales and support, as well as developing and maintaining strong referral/service partner relationships.

About Vic Veda

Vice President, Communications 

Vic Veda joined MRA in 2024, following an extensive background supporting Michigan’s retailers and small businesses through work in marketing and brand consulting. Raised in an entrepreneurial, small-town Michigan household, Vic has deep roots in business, growth strategy, and community engagement. Having worked at a variety of consulting agencies servicing local, regional, national, and global organizations to support their marketing, communications, and brand strategy needs, she’s found that her passion lies most with the retailers and local businesses of the Great Lakes State.