Vermont Business Magazine At the Vermont Retail & Grocers Association annual convention this past weekend at the Hilton Burlington, VRGA president, Jim Harrison, announced to members of the trade group that he would be stepping down at the end of the year. VRGA was brought about by the merger of the Vermont Retail Association and the Vermont Grocers Association. Harrison began his association career with VGA in 1987 and has continued as president of the new VRGA since the groups combined in 2014.
Jim Harrison
“For the past 29 years I have had the opportunity to see the retail and food industries in Vermont undergo many changes: store openings and some store closures, the introduction of new types of retail outlets, the advent of advanced technology, and the development of internet communication and sales. Representing our members at the State House has grown from a part time commitment to the full time job it is today. The issues have become more complex and with today’s business climate, the stakes are higher.” said Harrison.
He added, “We will focus on transition by devoting the remainder of 2016 to working with a very personable and capable individual we have brought into the organization, Erin Sigrist.”
Erin Sigrist
Sigrist grew up in a family hardware business in upstate New York. Harrison said she understands retail operations and her experience with one of Vermont’s largest government relations firms, has given her a knowledge of the ins and outs of the legislative process as well.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as president of VRGA. It has been especially rewarding to represent such a hard working group of members who are serving their communities seven days a week. We have a marketing slogan once used by our Ag Agency, Vermont Makes it Special. Well, quite simply, Vermont is special and I am very thankful for the opportunity to be part of VRGA these past 29 years,” added Harrison.
The Vermont Retail & Grocers Association represents approximately 800 retail stores and 250 suppliers to the retail and grocery industries; including the Vermont Specialty Food Association. Current members include clothing stores, sports stores, supermarkets, food co-ops, beverage stores, convenience stores, and general and country stores among many other merchants. Associate members include manufacturers, wholesalers, brokers, and service providers. To learn more visit vtrga.org.