Honoring Small Business Leadership in Retail
Each year, the National Retail Federation (NRF) recognizes small business leaders who embody the strength, resilience, and advocacy needed to ensure retail continues to thrive in the United States. The NRF’s America’s Retail Champion Award celebrates 50 small business champions, along with a select group of distinguished finalists.
In 2018, Sean Brownlee was named a distinguished finalist for the award, representing both online and brick-and-mortar retailers at the Retail Advocates Summit in Washington, D.C. Out of more than 100 participants, Sean was selected for his dedication to public policy engagement and his commitment to strengthening small business in America.
Why Retail Advocacy Matters
Small business retailers face a wide range of challenges; from tariffs and online marketplace competition to patent reform, data security, and labor policies. By engaging with lawmakers, business owners like Sean ensure that policymakers understand how their decisions affect local economies, job creation, and community growth.
Sean’s recognition as a finalist underscores his leadership as a veteran, entrepreneur, and advocate for U.S.-made products, and his efforts to keep retail both competitive and community-driven.
On Capitol Hill: Bringing the Small Business Voice to Washington
The NRF’s Retail Advocates Summit also provides finalists the chance to meet directly with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Sean met with members of Congress to discuss how policies around trade, manufacturing, and online competition affect small businesses.
Sean Brownlee speaks with Senator Patty Murray about the future of small businesses in the retail sector.
Congresswoman Suzan DelBene meets with Sean Brownlee during the NRF Retail Advocates Summit.
These discussions highlighted the role small businesses play as the backbone of the American economy and the need for supportive legislation to ensure their long-term success.
How to Be an Effective Advocate
Sean’s work in Washington reinforces a larger message: anyone can be an advocate. For retailers and entrepreneurs looking to make an impact, the NRF highlights three essential steps:
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Recognize your value. Your opinion matters and your representatives want to hear it.
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Understand the issues. Staying informed allows you to speak confidently about the challenges facing your business.
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Use your voice. Sharing your story can directly influence legislative decisions that shape the business landscape.
Investing in American-Made Growth
During times of global uncertainty, Sean continues to advocate for American-made products and manufacturing jobs. His work demonstrates that supporting local businesses is about more than patriotism, it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy for future generations.
Video Feature: Meet America’s Retail Champions 2018