Set against the backdrop of the lush forests and historic architecture of The Lodge at St. Edward in Bothell, the Washington Retail Association (WR) Board of Directors convened for its annual summer retreat on June 26–27, 2025. With the state’s retail sector undergoing significant change, the gathering offered a vital opportunity for WR’s leadership, comprising CEOs, operations executives, and public affairs professionals, to shape the future of retail in Washington.
Bringing together representatives from approximately 3,500 storefronts across the state, the retreat allowed the board to reflect on WR’s mission to be the unified voice of Washington’s diverse retail community. Through strategic discussions, policy planning, and collaborative visioning, Board members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the state’s retail landscape and ensuring its continued resilience.
A strong emphasis was placed on foundational governance, including financial stewardship, board structure, and administrative transitions. These discussions helped ensure WR remains agile, transparent, and aligned with best practices as it moves into a new era.
One of the key themes throughout the retreat was partnership, particularly in addressing complex challenges such as organized retail crime. WR continues to partner in the development of public-private collaborations to confront this growing threat. Representatives from the Attorney General’s Office and the Washington State Fusion Center joined WR leaders to share insights and discuss coordinated strategies to improve safety and reduce loss in communities statewide.
The group also explored WR’s role in shaping public opinion and local elections. As part of the ongoing “Promise of the Future” campaign, our contract team provided updates on efforts to influence critical municipal elections, particularly in Seattle, where retail policy outcomes often have statewide implications. The conversation reinforced WR’s proactive role in helping to elect leaders who understand the economic and social importance of a thriving retail sector.
Policy and legislative engagement remained central throughout the retreat. Board members reviewed the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session and began identifying top priorities for the year ahead. With a rapidly evolving political landscape, the retreat allowed WR’s Government Affairs team to align closely with board members on long-term strategies, grassroots mobilization, and preparing for the 2026 session.
Special guest appearances by Senators Manka Dhingra and Jeff Holy, along with Representatives Janice Zahn and Shelley Kloba, highlighted the strong, bipartisan relationships WR maintains with lawmakers. Their participation underscored the importance of the retail sector in broader economic and public policy conversations.
Beyond formal sessions, the retreat included time for reflection and connection. A guided trail walk to Lake Washington offered a moment of shared rejuvenation, while an evening dinner provided space to celebrate milestones, most notably the retirement of longtime WR Sr. VP of Policy and Government Affairs, Mark Johnson.
As WR looks to the future, succession planning remained a critical focus. A facilitated discussion explored how to maintain organizational continuity and leadership development. These conversations are part of a broader effort to ensure WR is prepared for the long term, both in governance and in the evolving needs of its membership.
The 2025 Board Retreat served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when retail leaders come together with purpose. With clarity, collaboration, and renewed energy, WR is well-positioned to continue advocating for its members, promoting innovation, and safeguarding the future of retail in Washington.
