It's no secret that the retail industry is beset with a number of challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, not the least of which are brick-and-mortar store closures. It's our responsibility at Total Retail to provide our audience with the latest news and analysis on the industry, even when that seems to be one bad story after the next. Truth be told, it can begin to become discouraging, leaving retailers asking themselves, "Is there a light at the end of the tunnel?"

This issue of Total Retail Report, and every Tuesday issue going forward for the foreseeable future, will answer that question with an emphatic "Yes!" While challenges are all still very much a part of the retail industry's everyday reality, so too are wonderful and uplifting stories of retailers and brands banding together to give back to those most in need in this time of crisis. From monetary donations for COVID-19 relief to manufacturing product and equipment for our front-line healthcare workers, and in so many other ways, retailers are doing their part to help make a positive difference in the lives of so many.

As such, we wanted to use this space to put a smile on our subscribers' faces by highlighting the positive stories emerging from the retail industry during this otherwise difficult time. The Bright Side of Retail is meant to reinforce the positive that's happening within our community, and perhaps inspire others to follow suit. Kudos to the retailers that are included in today's news roundup, and we look forward to highlighting more in this space going forward. Lastly, we want to hear from you with positive stories that we can share with our audience. You can reach me at jkeenan@napco.com.

Stay safe, be well, and we will get through this together.

Sincerely,

Joe Keenan
Editor-in-Chief
Total Retail