COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — GMDC|Retail Tomorrow, the National Grocers Association and the International Housewares Association have joined forces to  support smaller suppliers in non-essential categories that they said were getting left behind as the retail industry responded to meet consumers’ needs and demands during the global coronavirus pandemic.

As the industry rose to the challenge to support its consumers when the crisis struck, the three groups said it became clear to them that the industry would need to plan for a reliable future ahead when consumer habits stabilized.

In an open letter to the industry, the associations have offered their insights on the impact COVID-19 on retail, outlined how to prepare for the next wave of consumer demand for innovation and convenience, and encouraged all industry leaders to consider four steps to begin making a difference.