Michigan-Food-News-September-2015

PRSRTSTD
U.S.POSTAGE
PAID
Lansing,MI
PermitNo.979
MichiganGrocersAssociation
221N.WalnutStreet,Lansing,MI48933
GrandHotelWelcomesMGAMembers
Look inside for The Conference Playbook! Everything you need
to know about the MGA Conference:
 Schedule of Events  Silent Auction Preview
 Educational Opportunities  Networking & Leisure Options
 List of Trade Show Participants  Much More ... See pages 9-13!
MICHIGAN GROCERS ASSOCIATION’S AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION
Ben’sSupercenter
Celebrates
50 Years!
Seepage15
Meet
MichiganSenator
KenHorn
Seepage5
Tear-OutGuide
forBuying&Selling
aBusiness
Seepage7
IncentiveforRetailers
WhoAccept
Credit/DebitCardsfor
LotteryPurchases
Seepage17
FoodBusiness
LicenseFees
toIncrease
Seepage23
September2015
Volume69,Number9
Ken Salmon, VP of Hospitality and Maître d’; Bob Tagatz, Grand Hotel Historian and Concierge; Dan Musser III,
President; and Jason Horricks, PGA Golf Professional at The Jewel stand on the steps of Grand Hotel’s famous
porch to welcome MGA members.
EMVCompliance:
AreYouReadyforthe
October1Deadline?
Liabilityforfraudisshiftingtoretailerswho
don’thaveEMV-enabledterminals.Make
sure your business is ready.
See page 6 for details.

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Come see us at booth #12.

3September 2015  Michigan Food News
AdvertisingIndex
MGA Contact Information
(517) 372-6800 or (800) 947-6237; www.michigangrocers.org
Linda Gobler, president (ext. 16; linda@michigangrocers.org)
Nora Jones, executive assistant (ext. 25; nora@michigangrocers.org)
 Legislative/regulatory issues  Government agency assistance
 Capitol Insights bulletin  Food PAC of Michigan  MGA web site
 Mailing list changes
Mike Hamelin, vice president (ext. 20; mike@michigangrocers.org)
 Membership information/dues
 Coupon redemption program  MGA conference & golf outings
 Paul M. Felice Memorial Scholarship
Lisa Reibsome, communications director
(517.449.2256; MGAReibsome@comcast.net)
 Michigan Food News advertising, content, layout, and printing
 Public relations
president’s view
it’s the law
Publisher: Linda M. Gobler Editor: Lisa J. Reibsome
AuntMillie’s .............................................................. 24
CampbellGroup ........................................................ 25
ConsumersEnergy..................................................... 14
Dawn Food Products ................................................ 20
Duro-LastRoofing....................................................... 2
EncoreFloralMarketing ............................................ 13
Envirochemical .......................................................... 18
Great North Foods ...................................................... 6
H.T. Hackney .............................................................. 4
MerrillLynch ............................................................. 20
MichiganApple ......................................................... 17
MichiganLottery ....................................................... 16
MichiganSugar.......................................................... 26
ParamountCoffee...................................................... 23
Pepsi ......................................................................... 22
Phoenix Floor Care ................................................... 19
SpartanNash ............................................................. 28
Superior Foods ......................................................... 27
StarTruck Rentals ..................................................... 21
UBCR....................................................................... 19
Worldpay .................................................................. 15
On August 28, the FDA
issued a final guidance re-
garding the agency’s author-
ity to issue a No-Tobacco-
Sale Order (NTSO).
A NTSO is a ban on sell-
ing tobacco products for a
period of time for retailers
whohaverepeatedlyviolated
certain restrictions on the
sale and distribution of to-
bacco products.
The FDA is authorized
under the Family Smoking
Prevention and Tobacco
Control Act to conduct re-
tail compliance inspections
and impose fines for viola-
tions that could culminate in
a no-tobacco-sales order for
repeated violations of the
federal regulations.
The final guidance dis-
cusses topics intended to
help retailers better under-
stand and comply with
NTSOs, such as:
 When FDA may seek
to issue an NTSO;
 The time period cov-
ered by an NTSO;
 What happens after an
NTSO has been imposed on
a retailer; and
 How a consumer can
learn which retailers have
received NTSOs.
According to the final
guidance, the FDA consid-
ers there to be repeated vio-
lations if (1) there are at
least five violations of re-
quirements issued at a par-
ticular outlet; (2) each of
thefiveviolationsrepresents
the second or subsequent
violation of a particular re-
quirement; and (3) each of
the five violations occurs
within 36 months.
The current policy is to
consider each retail location
to be a separate retail outlet
when determining if there
are repeated violations that
provide grounds for FDA to
seek a NTSO.
The FDA has provided a
guidance web page for re-
tailers seeking more infor-
mation on NTSO policies:
www.fda.gov, click on “To-
bacco Products,” then
“Products, Guidance &
Regulations,” then “Rules,
Regulations & Guidance” to
reach the final order: “De-
termination of the Period
Covered by a No-Tobacco-
Sale Order and Compliance
With an Order.”
Questions? Contact the
Center forTobacco Products
(877) 287-1373 or smallbiz.
tobacco@fda.hhs.gov.
FDAIssuesFinalGuidanceforTobacco
SellerViolations
Michigan Grocers Association and Michigan
Grocers Service Corp. Board of Directors
Dave Duthler, Chairman
Duthler’s Family Foods, Grand Rapids
Mike Schiffli, Vice Chairman, SUPERVALU, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Jim Gohsman, Treasurer, SpartanNash, Grand Rapids
DJ Oleson, Immediate Past Chairman
Oleson’s Food Stores, Traverse City
Linda M. Gobler, President, Michigan Grocers Assn., Lansing
John Busch, Busch’s, Inc., Ann Arbor
Bill Hillman, H.T. Hackney, Grand Rapids
Tom Johnston, Independent Food Retailers Assn, Frankenmuth
Ken McClure, The Kroger Company, Novi
Jim Nader, Plumb’s Inc., Muskegon
Bryan Neiman, Neiman’s Family Markets, East China Twp.
Joe Risdon, Prairie Farms Dairy, Battle Creek
Bill Riley, Country Fresh, Grand Rapids
Don Symonds, Lipari Foods, Warren
Thom Welch, Hollywood Markets, Troy
Andy Woodrick, Ric’s Food Centers, Mt. Pleasant
Jim Zyrowski, Ben’s Supercenters, Brown City
Mike Hamelin, Michigan Grocers Service Corp., Vice President
Completely recyclable.
Publisher does not assume responsibility for statements
made by advertisers in business competition.
MICHIGAN FOOD NEWS © 2015 Michigan Grocers Service
Corporation. All rights reserved.
TalkAboutSpecial!
We all may be guilty of
occasionally exaggerating or
over-using certain adjec-
tives, but the Michigan Gro-
cers Association Fall Con-
ference really is special.
Starting with the fabulous
location and continuing
through the entire agenda —
social gatherings, speakers
and guests, new products
and services, recreational
events, and more — this
conference is special by any
measure!
We know that it’s impor-
tant for the vitality of mem-
bership organizations like
ours to gather — so like-
minded members can net-
work and share ideas, con-
cerns, priorities.
In addition, gatherings
such as our Fall Conference
(and Monday night’s Silent
Auction) provide important
non-dues income for theAs-
sociation;withoutthemMGA
would have to raise dues
enough to cover the short-
fall just to keep the lights on!
Please keep in mind that
the goal of the Silent Auc-
tion is to raise money and
to have fun doing it. Open
your purse or wallet and bid
generously.(Justlikevoting,
do it early and often!)
There's no better way to
acquire something special
and supportAssociation ac-
tivities at the same time.
That's a win-win!
This special event would
not be possible without the
work of many people. First
and foremost, I want to
thank our 12-member Con-
vention Committee, chaired
by Jim Gohsman of Spar-
tanNash. The committee
meets several times
throughout the year to ad-
vise MGA on everything
from the conference loca-
tion to the agenda, speak-
ers, and sponsor recruit-
ment. It’s a volunteer effort
and all they receive is
‘thanks’ for a job well-done.
It goes without saying
thatthefinancialsupportand
participationofoursponsors
and exhibitors goes a long
way toward providing a rel-
evant and valuable confer-
ence experience for those
that attend, without sacrific-
ing income of the non-profit
MGA.
And we certainly can’t
forget the Musser family.
Dan Musser III, President
of Grand Hotel, and his team
have literally rolled out the
red carpet for MGA mem-
bers. I can't thank them
enough. Ours is not the larg-
est group that they host, and
we’re not a frequent visitor
(every five years or so), but
they treat MGA like we're
the Hotel’s very best cus-
tomer. What other hotel can
you say that about?
And the same can be said
for Shepler’s ferry service.
They treat you right and of-
fer a generous discount to
make the trip to and from the
island as seamless as pos-
sible.
Be sure to see the “In-
siders Guide” on pages 9-13
for everything you need to
know about the conference.
And I look forward to you
joining me for this sure-to-
be successful MGA event!

&
MGA Public Profile
By Lisa J. Reibsome, Editor
MichiganSenator
Ken Horn
The 32nd District elected Ken Horn to the
MichiganSenatein2014to representallofSaginaw
County and western Genesee County. From 2007
through 2012, he served in the Michigan House.
Prior to that, he served 14 years as a Saginaw
County commissioner.
Horn graduated from Ann Arbor’s Concordia
University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal
Justice.
He was a small business owner for nearly 15
years, owning and operating Horn’s Restaurant
in Frankenmuth until 2002. In addition, he has
served as a substitute teacher in Bridgeport and
Frankenmuth schools. In 2004, he became Vice
President of Donor Services at the Saginaw Com-
munity Foundation where he managed over 300
funds and oversaw nearly $1.2 million in grant
programs that helped to improve Saginaw County.
In the Senate, he is chairman of the Senate Eco-
nomic Development and International Investment
Committee and vice chair of the Senate Transpor-
tation Committee. He also serves on the Senate
Energy &Technology and Insurance Committees.
You have a degree in criminal justice.
How did you then become interested
in politics?
I have always had an interest in politics. In high
school, I followed Gerald Ford and then later
Ronald Reagan. I am interested in different types
of leadership, and I was always interested to
watch their leadership through their politics.
I had an opportunity to get my degree through
Concordia University. They had classes in the
Saginaw area with a limited number of majors
available, including criminal justice. Many of the
classes you have to take for criminal justice are
similar to those that a person would take for po-
litical science. I didn’t intend to go into law en-
forcement or anything like that. My goal simply
was to get a degree from a great college.
I was basically the first in my family to gradu-
ate high school, let alone to go to college. My par-
ents were immigrants from Communist East Ger-
many. They fled East Germany just prior to the
Berlin Wall going up.
You owned Horn’s Restaurant for
15 years?
Yes, it was a restaurant bar combination. When
I purchased the business in 1988, it was 35% food
sales. I increased that to 65%. We concentrated
on our catering and outdoor cooking services —
pig roasts and many Frankenmuth festivals. Our
biggest night of the week was spaghetti night.
Those were very popular dinners. When we had
charity fundraisers, we attracted lots of people
with our spaghetti dinners. We also got into bar-
becues and roasts. Competing at the Bay City Pig
Gig, I won with my sauce three years in a row.
By the time I sold the business, we employed
21 people. The restaurant business, especially if
you have a liquor license, can be extremely diffi-
cult. We were working with cash drawers, a tran-
sient workforce, and lots of challenges. I worked
about 80 hours a week; and after 15 years, I just
felt it was time to turn it over to someone with
younger legs.
What are your legislative goals?
In my final term in the Michigan House, I
served as chair of the Energy and Technology
Committee. Energy has become such a crucial
issue for Michigan; and it was always an impor-
tant issue for my district with Hemlock Semicon-
ductor being the largest user of energy in Michi-
gan. You realize how important it is to have reli-
able energy in order to build industry.
My goal is to grow the economy, manufacturing
inparticular,andlookatthecomponents,including
energy, that make economic growth possible.
My district’s biggest sources of jobs come from
three industries: tourism, Frankenmuth is
Michigan’s most popular tourist attraction; agri-
culture, a large percentage of the area is used for
farming; and manufacturing.
When I look at my district economy – you can’t
move the family farms, you can’t relocate a tour-
ism location, those are here to stay, and we have
to protect them and continue to make them viable
industries.
But manufacturing can move anywhere in the
world; it requires different political sensibilities
when you are addressing issues surrounding manu-
facturing. Now that I chair the Economic Devel-
opment and International Investment Committee,
the three things that are on our radar are (1) Skilled
trades, one of the top factors that could foster
Michigan’s economic growth is filling the skilled
trade gap. We spent six weeks taking testimony
on what the skill gap is and how we might repair
it in Michigan. (2) Energy, we are looking to see
if we have the energy capacity and reliability to
grow industry in Michigan, and (3) Transporta-
tion. How do we move freight and people in and
out of Michigan to create a more vibrant economy?
Why are lawmakers having trouble
coming up with a roads solution?
We have differing political ideologies. We’ve
got folks who want a plan to raise money that
specifically pays for roads, others want to cut
spending and/or re-appropriate money to pay for
roads. It’s difficult to come up with the votes for
any one plan.
My greatest fear with this is that, at the last
minute, we’ll come up with another horrible plan
like Proposal 1. That’s why I am about to intro-
duce a bill with a simple, straightforward plan to
fix the roads. I want to add one cent to the sales
tax. The money raised would be dedicated solely
to roads and bridges. We would have the tax for
10 years and then revert back to a 6% sales tax.
My plan is to get this approach before the voters
in August 2016. We need a plan that is simple,
where the funding is dedicated, and there’s an end-
game. This meets those criteria.
Where do you stand on the state’s
approach to alternative energy?
As chairman of the Senate Economic Devel-
opment Committee, I want Michigan to have a
reliable source of energy with enough capacity to
support manufacturing growth.
To bring certainty to the planning process, our
utilities need to know who their customers are and
the peak load that comes with that. The choice
system makes that load uncertain.
I think if a business chooses to use an alterna-
tiveenergysupplier,thenthemajorutilityshouldn’t
have to act as supplier of last resort for the busi-
ness. If the business chooses to return to a major
utility, they should have to negotiate rates just as
they did with the alternative energy supplier. That
would help build reliability into the system.
What should we do to improve recycling
in Michigan?
I’m satisfied with the recycling systems that we
have now. In Saginaw County we have a tipping
fee for our dump, and that money goes into our
countyrecyclingprogram.SaginawCountyformed
The Mid MichiganWasteAuthority to provide cost
effective, environmentally sound, integrated waste
management services to its member communities.
About 35 municipalities have joined to participate
increatingandmaintainingtheregionalsolidwaste
management system.That’s a good approach; each
recycling program should be left to the local com-
munity to set up and run.
I want to add one cent to the sales tax;
the money raised would be dedicated
solely to roads and bridges. We would
have the tax for 10 years and then revert
back to a 6% sales tax.
continued on page 21

Michigan Food News  September 20156
EMVCompliance:AreYouReadyfortheOctober1Deadline?
EMV (EuroPay MasterCard and Visa) is the
new standard for credit cards. EMV cards are
embedded with a chip that makes accepting trans-
actions much more secure than the mag-strip
cards we currently use in the United States.
As part of the payment
networks changes around
fraud and security, beginning
October 1, 2015, some liabil-
ity for fraud will fall on you,
the merchant, if you have a
non-EMV-enabled terminal
and a counterfeit EMV card
is used at the point-of-sale
device. (For petroleum mer-
chants using automated fuel
dispensers, October 2017 is
the deadline for EMV accep-
tance capabilities.)
According to MGAAsso-
ciate Member Worldpay,
the new EMV technology
fights counterfeiting, helps
prevent card fraud, and cre-
ates a foundation for you to
accept emerging payment
technologies. Ultimately your
business environment will
drive your specific EMV-ca-
pable equipment needs. This may mean you will
need to invest in new chip-enabled PIN pads and/
or terminals at your business location(s).
In addition, training to familiarize staff and cus-
tomers with this change in present payment be-
havior will be needed to assist cardholders with
responding to EMV transaction prompts. Upgrad-
ing to EMV-enabled terminals can help to better
serve your customers’ demand for safer and faster
ways to pay, giving them greater confidence to
purchase with you.
According to the EMV Mi-
gration Forum, approximately
120 million chip cards were is-
sued by the end of 2014, and this
number is expected to jump to
600 million cards by the end of
this year. The Forum is an inde-
pendent,cross-industryorganiza-
tion created to support EMV
implementation.
With the October 1, 2015, li-
ability shift looming, merchants
who have not transitioned to ac-
cepting chip cards must educate
themselves on the transition and
what it will mean for their busi-
ness. Be sure to check out:
www.emv-connection.com. It
provides up-to-date information
along with tutorials, industry best
practices, and educational
resources to assist with the tran-
sition.
...SERVICE
...SELECTION
...BRANDS
...PARTNERSHIP
...SUCCESS
IT ALL STARTS WITH GREAT...
(800)968-0117 170 N. Industrial Hwy. Alpena, MI 49707 www.greatnorthfoods.com
A Family Owned Company
For more program information contact Steffen Nizinski or Ron Baxter
Your Choice For Full Service Grocery and Convenience Supply

AGuideforBuyingorSellinga RetailFoodStore
Buying or selling a retail food business can be a complex process. This guide is designed
to help you get started. The information is accurate at time of publication, but it is
subject to change due to revisions in law and administrative policies. Always contact
an attorney and other professionals to obtain advice with respect to any particular
issue or concern in the sale or purchasing of your specific business.
Overview
 Get expert advice. Closing or selling a business is
a delicate multi-step process. It is highly recommended
that you enlist professional help. Expert advice may come
from lawyers, accountants, business brokers, auction-
eers, tax experts, bankers, and the IRS.
 File dissolution documents. If you fail to legally
dissolve your LLC or corporation you will continue to be
liable for taxes and filings. If your business is operating as
a general partnership or sole proprietorship you may
not be required to formally dissolve your business, but it
is still a good idea to notify the government and creditors
of the change. If you are unsure if you should file dissolu-
tion papers, consult a small business attorney.
 Cancel registrations, permits, licenses, and busi-
ness names. To protect your finances and reputation,
ensure that you cancel all licenses and permits that you
will no longer need. If you have registered under an as-
sumed or trade name other than your own name, be
sure to cancel that business name registration with your
local government.
 Comply with employment and labor laws. Ensure
that final paychecks are paid to employees by their last
day of work, or soon after, according to state law. It’s
possible that employees may also require payment for
their unused leave. In addition, the Worker Adjustment
and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act protects work-
ers, their families, and communities by requiring em-
ployers with 100 or more employees to provide at least
60 calendar days advance written notice of the closing.
For employers with less than 100 employees Michigan
has a non-binding statute that asks employers to pro-
vide notice of job loss, but compliance is voluntary and
the statute has no enforcement provisions.
 Resolve tax obligations. When you file income tax
returns for the year in which your business closes, check
the box that indicates the document is a final return.
Many state revenue agencies require additional filings
for sales tax.
If you have employees, you must obligate your payroll
tax responsibilities or you will risk personal liability. In-
form your federal and state tax agencies that your busi-
ness is closing and that you will cease to file unemploy-
ment returns and an employer’s quarterly tax form.
Businesses should close their Employer Identifica-
tion Number (EIN) account by contacting the IRS. The
agency cannot cancel your account, but closing your EIN
account notifies the IRS that you are no longer planning
to use the number. The IRS provides a checklist of typical
tax actions to take when closing a business, depending
on your type of business structure.
 Business debts. Notify all lenders and creditors of
your plans to dissolve the business and settle remaining
debt. Contact the business associates to whom you owe
payment, or who owe payment to you. It’s a good idea to
discuss with your accountant, attorney, and insurers to
ensure that you have accounted for everything.
 Close accounts. Don’t forget to close out your busi-
ness bank account and cancel your business credit cards.
 Maintain records. You may be legally required to
maintain records, particularly tax and employment
records, after your business has closed. It’s prudent to
keep record anywhere from three to seven years.
Food Establishment License
Seller: Food establishment licenses are not
transferable to new owners or new locations.
Although it is not required, the Michigan Department
of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD)
encourages the seller to relinquish their food
establishment license to the department for
accounting purposes. The seller should mail the
license to the department along with a note and
signature on the license stating their relinquishment.
Has an Ownership Change Occurred?
 Corporate name change only – NO
 New owner – YES
 New partner in a partnership – YES
 Same corporation but change in corporate officers – NO
 Change in type of ownership (from one to another type; individual, partnership, joint tenant, or
corporation) – YES
Buyer: When food establishment ownership
changes, the new owner must apply for a new li-
cense. A new license will not be issued until an in-
spection takes place and a plan review has been
conducted, if applicable.Applications must be made
at least 30 days in advance of any change to allow
time for inspection and processing. Visit MDARD’s
Food Establishment Licensing Step-by-Step Guide
web page for more information: www.michigan.gov/
mdard, click “Licensing Certification & Registration,”
“Food Industries,” “Food Establishment Licensing
General Information.”
Seller: As stipulated in the Lottery Rules, Rule
432.7 Nontransferability of license: A license is not
assignable or transferable.
The commissioner shall be notified, in writing,
not less than 20 days before any proposed business
change or substantial change in ownership of the
business.
A substantial change in ownership under this rule
means a transfer of 50% or more of the equity of any
business licensed under these rules. If the business
to which a license is issued changes its business
location, then the owner shall submit an application
for a license. An owner shall report every change of
business location, in writing, to the commissioner
not less than 20 days before the change.
Buyer: Under Public Act 239 of 1972 as amended,
retailers must be licensed by the Michigan Lottery
Bureau to sell Lottery tickets.
Most applicants with an acceptable credit history
and no criminal record that would adversely affect
the integrity of the Lottery may be approved. Any
criminal record, however, must be disclosed.
Interested retailers must submit:
 Retailer Application
 Application Fee of $150 (nonrefundable)
 Required Forms
Visit the “How To Become a Lottery Retailer” web
page for links and additional information:
www.michiganlottery.com, click “Michigan Lottery
About Us,” then “Retailers.”
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Bureau of State Lottery wishes to advise all applicants for licenses and/or changes
of ownership not to invest any money or commit themselves by any binding agreements in the expectation
of being issued a license or approval of a change of ownership until officially notified by the Michigan Lottery
Department that their application has been approved.
Seller: Seller must complete the “Business
Transferor’s Notice to Transferee of Unemploy-
ment Tax Liability and Rate”, form UIA 1027 and
deliver it to the purchaser of the business at least
two business days before the transfer of the busi-
ness. This obligation extends to the seller’s real
estate broker, other agent, or attorney. For more
information regarding Unemployment Tax obliga-
tions, visit the Unemployment Insurance Agency
web site at www.michigan.gov/uia.
To obtain clearance statements related to un-
employment taxes, contact the UIA -Collections De-
partment (313) 456-2090.
Buyer: What is the tax rate when a new owner
acquires an existing business or businesses
merge? The UIA has a detailed document that ad-
dresses the obligations of both the seller and buyer:
www.michigan.gov/uia, click “Employers,” then
“Taxes and Credits.”Also available are links on how
to set up Electronic Wage Detail Reports.
Support: UIA’s Tax Team Support can answer
questions about registering a new business, the
sale or discontinuance of a business, the taxability
of services/wages, seasonal designation, the pro-
test/appeal of a tax status issue, or a recent audit:
(313) 456-2180.
Michigan Fireworks Application: Public Act 256
of 2011 provides for the sale of fireworks in
Michigan. Find registration requirements,
deadlines, and more here: https://mylicense.mdch.
state.mi.us/MyLicenseFWSConsumer/Login.aspx
PACA License: Retailers are subject to a Perish-
able Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) license
once the invoice costs of fresh and frozen fruit and
vegetable purchases exceed $230,000 in a calen-
dar year. For more information, call (800) 495-7222
or see www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/paca
Unemployment Insurance Agency
Lottery License
Miscellaneous for Seller & Buyer
CLIP & SAVE
More information is available on page 8.
This guide contains Michigan GrocersAssociation proprietary information. It was
preparedbytheAssociationandisintendedsolelyforusebyitsmembers.Proprietary
information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any
otherpurposewithouttheexpressedwrittenpermissionofMichiganGrocersAssociation.

AGuideforBuyingorSellinga RetailFoodStore,continued
Liquor Control Commission - SDM/SDD License
Selling and purchasing real estate or businesses
associated with the sale of alcoholic beverages are
unlike ordinary transactions due to the strict rules
and regulations imposed by the Michigan Liquor
Control Commission (MLCC).
Seller: R436.1047, “Return of licenses and per-
mits,” Rule 47 of theAdministrative Rules of the Com-
mission states: A licensee who ceases active opera-
tion of a licensed business for a period of more than
30 days shall return all current licenses and permits
to the commission. Send your license to the Lansing
office of the Commission with a cover letter explain-
ing the reason(s) for requesting the license be placed
in escrow, along with your current home address
and telephone number, to ensure you receive sub-
sequent correspondence from the Commission with
regard to the license(s).
A licensee shall have only 1 year after the expira-
tion of the license to renew the license and put the
license into active operation, except upon written
order of the Commission after a showing of good
cause. If the licensee fails to renew the license within
1 year after its expiration, and the Commission does
not extend the length of time for renewal, all rights to
the license shall terminate.
NOTE: (1)Any request for an extension of escrow
should be submitted to the Commission well in ad-
vance of the expiration date of the escrow period. (2)
All back renewal fees for each non-renewed licens-
SNAP - USDA Food & Nutrition Services
Seller: The seller must notify Food & Nutrition
Services (FNS) of the sale by calling (877) 823-
4369. The will put in the request and the seller will
be contacted by a field office.
You cannot transfer your SNAP license. Under
no circumstances may a new owner use your FNS
authorization number.
Beware that if the buyer is planning on applying
for authorization as a new SNAP retailer, once their
application process begins, your ability to accept
SNAP will be discontinued. Timing is important.
If you have state provided equipment, contact
the state EBT vendor (MICHIGAN - ACS Inc – a
Xerox Company – 888-678-8914). Read the retailer
instructions you get with your state POS machine
or materials provided by your own processor. It states
your legal responsibilities for the use and return of
the equipment.
Buyer: Apply online to become authorized to accept
SNAP at your retail food store. It’s fast and secure.
You can complete the online application in as little
as 15 minutes.
By applying online, you can also check the real-
time status of your application online using your
USDAaccount.Applying to accept SNAP benefits at
your store is a three step process: get a USDA
account, fill out an application online, and mail FNS
your supporting documentation to complete your
file.
Go to USDA’s SNAP Retail Merchants page to
apply online. There are additional links to information
you will need under the "Retailer" sidebar including:
Store Eligibility Requirements, Store Training
Information/Requirements and more.
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
Seller: The vendor must notify the Michigan De-
partment of Community Health (MDCH), WIC Pro-
gram, Vendor Management and Operations Sec-
tion, in writing at least 21 days prior to the effective
date of ceasing operations or changing ownership.
The vendor contract is not transferable between
owners or establishments. The contract is imme-
diately null and void upon sale or transfer of the
business or relocation of retail operations. Contact
the Michigan WIC Program for details: (517) 335-
8937.
Buyer: Change of Ownership applications received
from new owners who purchased stores from
vendors who were authorized to participate in the
WIC Program at the same time of the change of
ownership will be processed for authorization upon
submission and approval of the application subject
to several conditions.
New Requests for Vendor Authorization: The
Michigan WIC Program limits the number of ven-
dors authorized for the WIC Program. There are
also various criteria vendors must meet to be con-
sidered eligible to apply for WIC authorization.
The Michigan WIC Program currently has a stag-
gered contract cycle, one for the southern part, one
for the central part, and the other for the northern
part of the state. The open application period for
each region is January 1 through February 15, on
alternating years, and generally takes place every
three years.
For specifics, see www.michigan.gov/mdch,
click “Pregnant Women, Children & Families,” then
Women, Infants & Children,” then “WIC Vendors/
Grocers.”
Visit Treasury’s Registration for Michigan Business
Taxes page for detailed information and links for
both seller and buyer including: Registration FAQ’s;
Tax-Related Obligations When Establishing, Sell-
ing, or Closing a Business in the State of Michigan;
and more — www.michigan.gov/taxes, “click busi-
ness taxes,” then “new business.”
Seller: The seller is required to notify Michigan
Department of Treasury of any change in business
including mailing address, ownership, sale of all
or part of a business, or discontinuance of busi-
ness. Complete a “Notice of Change or Discon-
tinuance,” Form 163, or send a letter that includes
all discontinuance and account information.
• Pay any delinquent taxes due to the Treasury.
Submit a letter identifying the business name, ad-
dress, Federal Employer Identification Number
(FEIN), type of tax being paid, and the period(s) the
tax was due. Contact the specific tax division for
help calculating penalty and interest.
• The seller should request a Tax Clearance
Certificate to verify that all taxes have been paid
and provide to the buyer.
• Employers may now register for most Michi-
gan Business Taxes, including UIA Employer Ac-
count Number and /or a Sales Tax License using
the Michigan Business One Stop (MBOS) online
e-Registration application. You must have a Fed-
eral EIN (FEIN) to register. Do not use your Social
Security number as your FEIN number.
Once created, you log in to MBOS to access
Michigan Treasury Online (MTO). MTO is a tax-
payer self-service application for maintaining busi-
ness registration, filing, and paying SUW taxes.
ing year must be paid to the Commission before the
transfer in ownership of an inactive (escrowed) li-
cense. The licensee is responsible for these fees;
however, payment of the fees may be negotiated be-
tween the parties of the transfer.
Buyer: Depending upon the municipality, it may
take several months from the time an application is
placed with the MLCC to transfer MLCC licensed real
estate or businesses.
However, pursuant to MCL 436.1525, which be-
came effective on May 22, 2014, the MLCC can issue
conditional liquor licenses which would allow quali-
fied applicants to sell alcohol while their application
for a permanent license is pending.
Conditional Liquor Licenses: To be considered for
a conditional license, an applicant must submit the
following:
• a completed application for (1) transfer of owner-
ship of or an interest in an existing license at the same
location to sell alcoholic liquor for consumption on or
off the premises; or (2) a new SDM;
• a completed Form LCC-3021 (Conditional Li-
cense – Application to Transfer Ownership) or Form
LCC-3022 (Conditional License – New SDM);
• proof of financial responsibility;
• an executed property document, such as a deed
or a lease (showing that the applicant has a posses-
sory interest in the proposed licensed establishment);
• a conditional license fee of $300.
Upon the receipt of all of the documents and fees,
the MLCC has 20 days to determine whether to is-
sue the conditional license. If the conditional license
is approved and issued, it will remain in effect until
the earliest occurrence of one of the following:
• 20 business days after the MLCC issues the un-
derlying permanent license; or
• upon issuing a final order of denial of the under-
lying permanent license application (after all admin-
istrative remedies have been exhausted) or
• the applicant cancels the initial license appli-
cation; or
• one year after the date the conditional license
was issued.
A conditional license issued by the MLCC is non-
transferable and non-renewable.
Applicants who are both requesting the transfer
of ownership of an existing liquor license and re-
questing a conditional license should consider plac-
ing the existing permanent license in escrow.
According to the MLCC, if the application is re-
questing the transfer of an existing license, the exist-
ing license must be placed in escrow with the MLCC
before the conditional license can be issued. The
parties, however, must be aware that the underlying
application for transfer of the license may be de-
nied. To that end, the documents governing the sale
of the liquor license should detail what happens if
the underlying application is eventually denied.
Tax-Related Obligations
This guide contains proprietary information of the Michigan GrocersAssociation. It was prepared by theAssociation and is intended solely for use by its members. Such proprietary
informationmaynotbeused,reproduced,ordisclosedtoanyotherpartiesforanyotherpurposewithouttheexpressedwrittenpermissionofMichiganGrocersAssociation.

Insider’s Guide to the MGA Conference
sharing with peers, thought-provoking lessons
from industry experts and other speakers, and
the captive audience of buyers and sellers that
offers new and improved opportunities.
People make the MGA conference great, and
your participation makes it even better!
“Grand Hotel’s signature hospitality and
one-of-a-kind appeal makes it an outstanding
place to host our conference,” says MGA Presi-
dent Linda M. Gobler. “Contributing greatly
to the hotel’s ambiance is the unique atmo-
sphere of Mackinac Island. From its fine
dining, uncommon shops, historic sites, and
fun-filled attractions, Mackinac Island has
something to offer everyone.”
Grand Hotel’s entire team is ready to create
a warm sense of belonging, enabling you to
have the best experience possible. The follow-
ing pages provide information to help you get
the most out of the 2015 MGA Conference.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 20
Arrival, Check in & MGA Registration ........................ 3 - 6 pm................................................................... Grand Hotel Front Desk & Garden Terrace
Exhibit Setup.............................................................. 3 - 6 pm...................................................................................................... Grand Hotel Theatre
Welcome Reception .................................................. 6:30 - 7:30 pm ....................................................... West Front Porch Sponsored by Grand Hotel
Al Kessel Awards Dinner ........................................... 7:30 pm ......................................................... Grand Pavilion Sponsored by Lipari Foods & UDIM
Bruce & Buster’s Backdoor Saloon ............................ 9:30 - 11 pm... ...........................................................................................................Cupola Bar
Welcome to the 2015 MGA Annual ConferenceTRADESHOW
MONDAY, SEPT. 21
Breakfast .................................................................... 7:30 - 8:30 am ............................................................................................... Main Dining Room
MGA Annual Business Meeting ................................. 8:30 am ............................................................................................................... Grand Pavilion
Speakers: President Linda Gobler & MGA Chairman Dave Duthler; Election of MGA Directors; Michigan Grocers Fund Administrator Tim Hanna
General Session ........................................................ 9 - 10:30 am .................................................... Grand Pavilion Sponsored by Superior Foods Co.
Speaker: Dr. Lowell Catlett
Exhibit Setup ..................................................... 7 - 10 am .................................................................................................. Grand Hotel Theatre
Trade Show Open ............................................. 10:30 am - 1:30 pm ...........................................Grand Hotel Theatre Have lunch at the show!
Exhibit Removal ................................................ 1:30 - 3:30 pm
Bocce Tournament ..................................................... 2 pm .................................................................. Tea Garden Sponsored by Aunt Millie’s Bakeries
Cornhole Tournament ................................................. 3 pm ......................................................Tea Garden Sponsored by Business Machines Company
Leisure Time .............................................................. 2 - 6 pm...........................................................Not into Bocce or Cornhole? See page 12 for ideas
Silent Auction & Reception ........................................ 6 - 7:30 pm.........................................................Grand Pavilion Sponsored by Kroger - Michigan
Chairman’s Dinner ...................................................... 7:30 - 9:30 pm ............................................ East Main Dining Room Sponsored by SpartanNash
Bruce & Buster’s Backdoor Saloon ............................ 9:30 - 11 pm .......................................................................................................... Audubon Bar
TUESDAY, SEPT. 22
General Session ........................................................ 8:30 - 10 am ........................................................................................................ Grand Pavilion
Speakers: MLCC Chairman Andy Deloney
Digital Marketing Panel led by Reach / Influence CEO Eric Green including Martin’s Amy Simeri McClellan, SpartanNash’s Ron Cox, and NCR’s Jim Yantis
Golf Outing ................................................................. 11 am Shotgun ........................................... The Jewel Sponsored by Pepsi Beverages Company
Leisure Time .............................................................. 11 am - 6 pm ........................................................................ Not into Golf? See page 12 for ideas
Farewell Reception.................................................... 6 - 7 pm........................................................................................................... The Jockey Club
Dinner
A five course-dinner in the Main Dining Room is included in your Grand Hotel stay or use your $20/person credit at Woods Restaurant, The Jockey Club,
The Gate House or Cawthorne’s Village Inn
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 23
Departure via Shepler’s Dock ....................................................................................................................................... See page 13 for more information
After months of planning and hard work,
MGA’s Annual Conference is finally here!
Michigan Grocers Association is proud to host
its 117th Fall Conference. Each year grocers
and suppliers from across the state set aside com-
petitive differences and come together to ben-
efit from their combined wisdom.
Retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, spe-
ciality distributors, brokers, and service pro-
viders of all kinds and sizes benefit from idea-
Schedule of Events

Timely, Relevant, Expert Speakers
Monday and Tuesday mornings are set aside for education and inspiration.
Monday’s events begin with the MGAAnnual Business Meeting at 8:30 a.m.
in the Grand Pavilion. MGA President Linda M. Gobler will discuss legisla-
tive and regulatory updates and more. Next, MGA Board Chairman Dave
Duthler will preside over the election of MGA Directors and provide an
overview of the Association’s 2015 activities. Michigan Grocers Fund Ad-
ministrator Tim Hanna will give members an update on the Fund’s perfor-
mance. The Annual Business Meeting is followed by a General Session.
Bruce & Buster’s Backdoor Saloon
Plan to wind down each night by joining us for a nightcap or two and time
with friends and colleagues.Alongstanding tradition at MGAconventions,
Bruce & Buster’s Backdoor Saloon is a casual hospitality lounge named
for Bruce Mulder and Buster Russo, two dear and departed friends of
the Association. Relax and mingle. Cash bar.
Sunday night location: Cupola Bar, at the very top of Grand Hotel;
Monday night location:Audubon Bar, a relaxing atmosphere with TVs to
catch the game.
Andy Deloney
Chairman, Liquor Control Commission
MGA is proud to welcome Dr. Lowell
Catlett, distinguished professor and Dean
of the College ofAgricultural, Consumer
and Environmental Sciences at New
Mexico State University as the General
Session keynote speaker. Dr. Catlett is an
exciting futurist who uses his knowledge
of technologies and their implications to
forecast how we will live and work in the
future. In his presentation, “Food andAg-
riculture: When Farmers Rule theWorld,”
Dr. Catlett will discuss the mechanical and
chemical revolutions in agriculture that are
now being dwarfed by the Information
Age — the age when the possibilities in
agriculture are infinite, and when the value
of the information exceeds the value of
the products produced.
It’s an age where mobile wireless sen-
sors connect globally and locally manag-
ing crops, livestock, wildlife, ecology, energy, entertainment, and human health
via drones, robotics, GIS, GPS, GMOs, andAI. That’s a world few can imag-
ine, but it’s around the corner. It puts those involved with food and agriculture
at the forefront of the most important changes in recorded history.
Conference attendees won’t want to miss his presentation.
On Tuesday morning Michigan
LiquorControlCommissionChairman
Andy Deloney will address the
present and future landscape of bev-
erage sales in Michigan and the im-
portant role played by retail licensees.
SinceDeloney’sappointmentbyGov-
ernor Snyder in 2011, many legisla-
tive, regulatory, and administrative
changeshavesignificantlystreamlined
the licensing process and contributed
toimprovedbusinessopportunitiesfor
licensees.
Andy leads off Tuesday’s General
Session starting at 8:30 a.m.
Also on tap for Tuesday is a panel pre-
sentation on the present and future of digi-
tal marketing led by Reach/Influence CEO
Eric Green. Panel participants include
Martin’s Amy Simeri McClellan,
SpartanNash’s Ron Cox, and NCR’s Jim
Yantis. Mobilecommunicationdevicesand
digital marketing technologies have revo-
lutionized the ability of retailers to reach
customerswithindividualizedmessagesand
offers that were never before possible.
Learn how small-and medium-size retail-
ers are using these resources to success-
fully compete with the biggest players in
the marketplace.
Eric Green
CEO, Reach | Influence
Dr. Lowell Catlett, Professor
New Mexico State University
Sponsored by Superior Foods
Name Badges
Your name badge is your “ticket” into all MGA conference functions
and it should be worn at all times. Check in at the MGA registration desk
in Grand Hotel on the Garden Terrace (ground floor) to pick up your badge
beginning at 3 p.m. on Sunday. The desk will be staffed until
6 p.m. You’ll want your badge for the 6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception on
the front porch!
Dress Advisory
Resort casual or business casual attire is recommended for all confer-
ence functions during the day. However, the Grand Hotel experience in-
cludes dressing up for dinner. Evening wear is required in all areas of the
hotel after 6:30 p.m.: Dress, skirt, and blouse or pantsuit for ladies, and
coat, necktie, and dress pants for gentlemen. No denim please. Exception
to the dress rule: Casual dress is acceptable at any time in the Cupola Bar.
Conference Meals & Receptions
Breakfast in the Main Dining Room is included each day, starting at
7:30 a.m. It includes a wide selection of entrees, such as omelettes and
made-to-order eggs, hot and cold cereals, pancakes and French toast with
real Michigan maple syrup, hot oatmeal, breakfast meats and salmon, fresh
breads and pastries, fresh juices, fruits, and more. For those who prefer, a
buffet is also available.
In addition, there will be coffee served at both General Sessions on Mon-
day and Tuesday mornings.
The conference group meals include the Al Kessel Awards Dinner
on Sunday in the Grand Pavilion and the Chairman’s Dinner on Monday
in the East Main Dining Room.Your conference name badge is your meal
ticket.
Alcoholic beverages at many conference functions are payable on a cash
basis — cash, credit card, or charge to your Grand Hotel room account.
Al Kessel
Outstanding Achievement
Awards Dinner
Sunday night’s dinner is a very special
event celebrating what makes our industry
great.
Outstanding Retailer McDonough’s
Market and Outstanding Business Partner
Koegel Meats will receive the 2015 Al
Kessel Awards.
Al was known for giving back to the community and these awards honor
that tradition. The cost of dinner is included in the Grand Hotel MAP
Package; your name badge is your ticket into the Grand Pavilion for this
wonderful opening night dinner. TheAwards Dinner is sponsored by Lipari
Foods and the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.

A Unique Show Experience!
The MGA Trade Show fills a niche that others can’t — it knows no
boundaries and features a variety of vendors and professionals that aren’t
part of warehouse shows, including an exclusive group of Michigan-made
products. It also lacks the urgency and pressure of typical buying shows
and allows time to touch, taste, and learn more about the items displayed.
Michigan Marketplace is the place for all things MICHIGAN: locally
grown, produced, and manufactured products of all types that showcase
the best of what our state has to offer in the global food economy. New
products come onto the market every day; here’s your chance to see the
latest and greatest and put them on the shelf even before your customers
ask for them.
Lunch! There’s no need to leave the show for lunch — many exhibi-
tors offer samples and more for a satisfying “strolling lunch” throughout the
show floor.
Location: Grand Hotel Theatre.
Trade Show Exhibitors
Bocce Tournament
The venerableAunt Millie’s Cup is on the line and
all bocce aficionados (beginners, too!) are invited to
play in this fun afternoon activity that’s become an
annual tradition with MGA members.
Two-person teams compete in this single-elimina-
tion tournament. If you don’t have a partner, come
anyway. We will find you one. No experience neces-
sary. See any MGA staff member or a representa-
tive of Aunt Millie’s Bakeries to sign up. Play begins promptly at 2 p.m. on
the lawn of the Grand Hotel Tea Garden in front of the hotel. Sponsored by
Aunt Millie’s Bakeries.
Cornhole Tournament
Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a fun lawn game that everyone
can enjoy. Players take turns throwing bags of corn at a raised platform
with a hole in the far end — getting points for
various throws. All are welcome to play
starting at 3 p.m. at Grand Hotel’sTea Garden
in front of the hotel. Come join us! Sponsored
by Business Machines Company.
A fantastic Seven-Day Alaskan Cruise
Package is one of the many Silent Auction
Items you could win.
Sponsored by:
Anheuser-Busch
Arctic Glacier Premium Ice
Aunt Millie’s Bakeries
Beau Bien Fine Foods
Bryco, Inc.
CashMate USA
Cherry Capitol Foods
Common Thread Software
Consumers Energy
Country Fresh
Dave’s Sweet Tooth
Drink Dine Detroit
Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.
FMS Solutions
Grand Traverse Culinary Oils
Great Lakes Data Systems
Great House Foods
H. T. Hackney Company
Higher Grounds Trading Company
Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream
IFRA
Lesley Elizabeth, Inc.
Lipari Foods
LiveSmart LLC
Merrill Lynch
Michigan Grocers Fund/
Regency Group
Michigan Potato Industry Comm.
Owens Family Foods LLC
Pepsi Beverages
Phoenix Floor Care
Reach | Influence
Sha La Cynts
Superior Foods Company
Thermo King Michigan
Vantaura Energy Services
Worldpay
SpartanNash
Congratulates and Thanks
DaveDuthler
MGA Chairman of the Board
Chairman’sDinnersponsoredby
Monday night’s Chairman’s Dinner: East Main Dining Room at 7:30 p.m.
Silent Auction Fundraiser
Proceeds from MGA’s silent auction provide important non-dues income for
the Association’s government relations efforts, and sales of designated items sup-
port the Paul M. Felice Memorial Scholarship Program — so open your purse or
wallet and bid generously! The goal is to raise money and have fun doing it. There's
no better way to acquire something special and support Association activities at
the same time. That's a win-win!
Treat yourself, your family, your co-workers or customers, or get a jump-start
on your holiday shopping , by placing the winning bid on a wide array of items and
experiences in the Silent Auction on Monday evening at 6 p.m. There’s something
for everyone. Consider the possibilities…
 Seven-Day Alaskan Cruise Package
 Vacation Getaway Package
 Four tickets to Lions vs. 49ers
 Two tickets for MSU vs. Penn State football
 Collectible memorabilia autographed by
MSU basketball legends, Ernie Harwell,
Tom Izzo, Jim Harbaugh, Luther Elliss,
José Iglesias, and Brady Quinn.
 Adidas Euro ClimaHeat Jacket (like PGA’s Jason Day!)
 Kindle Fire HD7
 Specialties for the Home Chef
 Gourmet Gift Baskets
Angeli Foods
Brownwood Farms
Cherry Capitol Foods
Country Fresh
Duro-Last Roofing
Friends of MGA
Grand Hotel
Heeren Companies
Thank You Silent Auction Donors!
Kroger - Michigan
Martin’s Super Markets
Meijer
MSU Food Industry Management Program
Paramount Coffee
Pepsi Beverages
Oleson’s Food Stores
SpartanNash
Tom’s Food Markets

Golf Outing
This year’s Fall Golf Classic tees off at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at The Jewel. The Grand nine is located across
the street from the hotel, with views of Lake Huron and Round Island. The Woods nine is set in the interior of
Mackinac Island, with views of the Mackinac Bridge and the Upper Peninsula. After completing the Grand nine, you
and your clubs will be transported via horse-drawn carriage a mile and a half to the Woods nine. Box lunches will be
served on the leisurely 15-minute carriage ride. Sponsored by Pepsi Beverages Company.
Kroger-Michigan
Lipari Foods
Pepsi Beverages Company
SpartanNash
Superior Foods
United Dairy Industry of Michigan
Presenting Sponsors Diamond Sponsors
Meijer
Supervalu
Host & Platinum Sponsors
Aunt Millie’s Bakeries
BMC - Business Machines Company
Dawn Foods
H.T. Hackney Company
Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream Co.
Gold Sponsors
Affiliated Foods Midwest
Country Fresh
Great North Foods
Mondelez Intl.-Nabisco
Prairie Farms Dairy
Schupan Recycling
Star Truck Rentals
Anheuser-Busch
Coca-Cola Refreshments
Silver & Supporting Sponsors
Conference Sponsors – Thank You!
Plenty to See and Do - At Grand Hotel
Grand Hotel Stables: The new stables, located minutes away in Surrey
Hills just across from Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, is home to
12 horses and open to the public.At 8,700 square feet, this working stable is
a great way to see the horses up close, along with 20 antique carriages from
both Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island Carriage Tours.
Horses & Carriage Tours: There’s nothing like the gentle clip clop of
horses on Mackinac Island. Group carriage tours offer narrated island tours,
starting downtown and stopping along the way at points of interest. Private
carriage tours are also available — choose your own itinerary and pickup/
drop-off points. Grand Hotel’s Concierge can help design a personalized route
wherever you want to go — even to parts of the island unseen by many.
For the more adventurous, saddle horses are a great way to explore
Mackinac Island’s 40 miles of bridle paths. Or take a leisurely ride around the
island in a drive-your-own carriage, available from local liveries. For tour
arrangements or more information, please contact the Concierge.
Biking: Bicycles can be rented at Grand Hotel’s Pool House. With over
70 miles of natural and paved trails, Mackinac Island is a biker’s paradise.
Special Grand Hotel box luncheons are available and can be enjoyed at any
of the picnic spots throughout the island. See the Concierge for details.
Astor’s Salon and Spa: Make your stay at Grand Hotel even more relaxing
with a visit to Astor’s Salon and Spa, a full service Aveda Salon. They offer
facials, massages, manicures, pedicures and many other rejuvenating, nurturing
and relaxing services. Hair styling and other services can be provided.
Esther Williams Swimming Pool: The 220-foot-long, serpentine-shaped
heated pool is a popular gathering place if it’s warm. Guests are also welcome
to enjoy the sauna and two whirlpools on the pool deck.
Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor: Opened in 2013 and named after “Best in
Show” Sadie, it features 24 delicious flavors from Hudsonville Ice Cream.
Everyone registered for the MGA conference will receive a coupon for a FREE
sundae, cone, specialty, shake, or float compliments of conference sponsors
Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream Company and United Dairy Industry of
Michigan. Don't miss out — the coupon is valid through Wednesday, Sept. 23.
Consumers Energy
FMS Solutions
Michigan Potato Industry Commission
Miller Poultry
... On the Rest of the Island
Fort Mackinac: Just a short stroll or ride away from Grand Hotel,
Fort Mackinac is a National Historic Landmark and the sentinel of the
Straits of Mackinac for 224 years. Guides are dressed in period costumes.
You’llwitnesscannonandriflefiringdemonstrations,exploretherealhistory
of Mackinac in 14 original buildings filled with period settings, exhibits, and
videos. Enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor, and Grand Hotel service at
the Fort Mackinac Tea Room.
Fort Holmes: Be one of the first to see the newly reconstructed Fort
Holmes, reopened in August 2015. At the highest point on the island, it
offers spectacular views. Constructed by British soldiers during the War
of 1812, time and deterioration took their toll and the site consisted of little
more than an earthen mound and weeds for decades. After a $500,000
restoration project, Fort Holmes is now ready to accept visitors.
Downtown Mackinac Island: Historic Downtown Mackinac Island
features fur trade era homes and shops, as well as grand Victorian cottages.
There are lovely shops in the downtown area of the Island. Main Street,
Market Street, Fort Street, Astor Street, and Hoban Street are where you
will find one of a kind clothing stores, toy stores, jewelry shops, fine home
gifts, souvenir shops, world-famous fudge shops, and art galleries filled the
works of local artists and artisans. For a complete list of shops and telephone
numbers, see www.mackinacisland.org/shopping/downtown-shops/
Remember: No chain stores on Mackinac Island!
Butterfly Houses: Two butterfly conservatories offer visitors a chance
to see native and exotic species up close: Wings of Mackinac Butterfly
Conservatory up-island at Surrey Hills and the Original Mackinac Island
Butterfly House & Insect World downtown.
Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Island Art Museum:
FocusedaroundfineanddecorativeartsinspiredbyMackinacIslandthrough
the ages from Native American baskets to present-day paintings of the
island by residents, Mackinac Island’s newest cultural attraction is
a three-level art museum first built by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft as a tribute
payment building for the local Indian tribes back in the first half of the 1800s.
Paramount Coffee Company
Vantaura Energy Services
Worldpay

By Eric Green, CEO of Detroit-based reach/influence, a marketing
analytics company that uses shopper data to provide independent retail-
ers with solutions to improve understanding of customer behavior and
increase sales. Eric is leading a panel discussion on The Digital Trans-
formation at the MGA Fall Conference. Joining Eric will be Amy Simeri
McClellan of Martin’s Super Markets, Ron Cox of SpartanNash, and
Jim Yantis of NCR. Big data, shopper engagement, mobile apps, omni-chan-
nel ... these are the buzz words of the day in retailing. But what does it all
mean and how might an independent retailer think through and understand
current digital technology and how it is transforms consumer marketing?
As a starting point, let’s focus on the goals of each of the grocery partici-
pants: the shoppers, the retailers, the wholesalers, and the product manufac-
turers:
 Shoppers: Shoppers want value relative to the their two most precious
assets, time and money. Therefore, the goal of a shopper is to have an easy,
economical, efficient, and enjoyable experience with the retailer and the brands
with whom they interact.
 Retailers: Retailers, like most business owners, want to grow their busi-
ness and earn a return on their investment of time and money. Given the fixed
asset nature of the brick and mortar retailer, driving more sales tends to be
paramount. Since sales = price x volume, a primary goal is to drive more
shoppers and more spend per shopper, which means having the right prod-
ucts at the right price for the right shopper.
 Wholesalers: Wholesalers want to grow their share of the retailer’s
grocery purchase, ensure that they are carrying all the correct products, and
continue to be integral in the flow of promotion and settlement dollars.
 Product Manufacturers: CPG companies want to grow the amount
that shoppers spend on their products and to better understand and measure
their promotional dollars.
How does the transformation to digital marketing help each group achieve
its goals? We subscribe to the following tenants and believe that each plays an
important role:
 Promotions | Offers | Coupons. Promotions will continue to be a tool to
encourage shoppers to spend more of their wallet with retailers. Digital cou-
pons will continue to be a growing share of the promotion dollars.
 Messaging. Messaging offers and promotions is paramount to attract-
ing and nurturing shoppers. Digital messaging will continue to grow in importance as shoppers look for more efficient ways to have an economical and easy
experience with retailers.
 Marketing Integration. Integrating all promotion tools including in-store, print and digital will create an easy experience for shoppers and more
efficient marketing and merchandising operations.
 Measurement | Reporting. Marketing and merchandising programs must be scored and measured in terms of effectiveness of spend and driving
return for a retailer. The digital medium coupled with an integrated promotion program is perfectly suited to measure performance.
 Partnership | Managed Service. Partnering with an experienced team of technologists, marketers, data specialists and analysts is a cost-effective
and efficient solution.
If a retail experience accomplishes these objectives, the shopper, retailer, wholesaler, and CPG’s goals should all be served well.
Shoppers are beginning to demand the right offers at the right time through the right communication channel. The digital transformation empowers
retailers to fulfill this demand.
We advise retailers to adopt a “present, not perfect” strategy. In other words, start communicating now with your shoppers in a relevant digital manner.
Luggage Upon Departure
Grand Hotel check-out time is 11 a.m. For your return trip back to the
mainland, follow the in-room instructions. Your luggage will be tagged and
transferred from your room to a secure location on the appropriate mainland
dock. Grand Hotel requests at least a two-hour window for the transfer.
To the Docks
Grand Hotel is a 15-20 minute walk from the boat docks. For your
convenience, Grand Hotel operates horse-drawn carriages between the docks
and Grand Hotel. The fare from Grand Hotel to the Shepler dock is $5 per
person via the hotel’s carriage or a taxi. Then, it takes about 20 minutes to get
from the island to Shepler’s Ferry dock on the mainland.
TheDigitalTransformation:
Be Present, Not Perfect

B7066
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to learn how we can help your business succeed.
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to learn how we can help your business succeed.
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Local Community Support
Dedicated Business Specialists

MGA Member Ben’s Supercenter, headquar-
tered in Brown City, is celebrating 50 years in
business this year.The company has evolved from
itshumblebeginningasasmalltowngrocerystore,
known as Ben’s Supermarket, to a 84,000 square-
foot supercenter.
MGA Director Jim Zyrowski is company presi-
dent, owner, and CEO. Jim’s father, the late Ben
Zyrowski, started the family in the grocery busi-
ness. He was employed as a meat cutter by A&P
in Warren, Michigan, after serving in the U.S.
Army.
Jim was introduced to the grocery business even
before he started kindergarten, back in Septem-
ber of 1965, when his father purchased a 4,500
square-foot grocery store “from a trusting old re-
tailer who sold the store on a land contract with
no down payment and pay-for-inventory-when-
you-can terms,” says Jim. “My father and I lived
in the parking lot in a borrowed camping trailer
until my family could sell our house inWarren and
relocate to Brown City.”
Today, Ben’s Supercenter has three locations,
two are full-service grocery and Ace Hardware
stores that include banks, pharmacies, and Sub-
way restaurants. The third store is a sporting goods
and contractor center with convenience grocery.
Ben’s employs approximately 300 people and
serves a large trade area with their enormous
variety that includes grocery, hardware, farm and
ranch products, trailers, lawn and garden supplies,
and much more.
Ben’s Supercenter is supplied by Affiliated
Foods Midwest where Jim serves
as Vice Chairman of the Board.
Jim also is MGA’s newest board
member.
He attributes 50 years of suc-
cess to a loyal customer base as
well as loyal associates.
“With such dedicated custom-
ers and staff, stability has been
provided within our company, al-
lowing enough time for my father
and I to be creative with a true
entrepreneurialspiritbringingina
wide variety of product and ser-
vices typically uncommon to a
small rural town,” he says. “This
jointentrepreneurialeffort,inturn,
has dramatically expanded our
customer base and has continu-
ally increased our sales creating
sustainability to remain vibrant in
retail for 50 years.”
Anniversary celebration events will be held
throughout September.
“We will be doing a full-blown, company-wide
celebration kicking off with a visit from the nos-
talgic Oscar Meyer wiener mobile,” Jim shares.
Company founder Ben Zyrowski and his wife Evelyn inside
their store in 1965.
Ben’sSupercenterCelebrates50Years!
“We will have daily and weekly in-store drawings
and also web and text blast super specials. We
have a variety of contests, activities, and sales
scheduled throughout the month that will be fun
and exciting for customers of all ages!”

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MichiganLotteryNews
By M. Scott Bowen, Michigan Lottery Commissioner
ExtraIncentiveComingforRetailersWhoAccept
Credit and Debit Cards for Lottery Purchases
It’s no secret that fewer people regularly carry
cash these days. The trend of using a debit or
credit card for everyday purchases continues to
grow. Just a few years ago, it would have been
unusual for a customer to enter a convenience
store or gas station and use a debit or credit card
for a small purchase such as a candy bar and soda.
Times have changed; and today, more and more
people prefer to use cashless payment methods
for all items wherever they choose to shop. What
is your store’s breakdown of cash versus cash-
less sales?
With the increased use of debit and credit cards,
it is important for the Lottery and retailers to adapt
to current consumer preferences and behaviors.
Beginning October 1 the Lottery will begin of-
fering an additional 1% commission incentive
on instant ticket sales to retailers who accept
debit and credit cards for Lottery purchases.
To qualify for the additional 1% commission
incentive, retailers also must meet the qualifying
criteria outlined in the “Quarterly Retailer Incen-
tiveAgreement.”Additionally, Club Game retail-
ers who achieve their Quarterly Retailer Incen-
tiveAgreement, and accept debit and credit cards
for Lottery purchases will receive an additional
1% commission on their sales for that quarter.
Going cashless increasingly is a way of life for
the Millennial generation, those aged 18 to 34.
According to a 2014 study by the Independent
Community Bankers ofAmerica, nearly 25%, or
20 million Millennials, said they carried less than
$5 each day.As this generation continues to gain
purchasing power in the marketplace, it is crucial
for retailers to offer Millennials the payment meth-
ods they expect and prefer.
By accepting debit and credit cards for Lot-
tery purchases, retailers likely will see increased
Lottery sales.Athird of Lottery players surveyed
recently said they would spend more on Lottery
purchases if they were able to use a debit or credit
card. Retailers who don’t accept debit and
credit cards for Lottery purchases could end up
losing business to competitors.
A growing number of
retailers already have
positioned themselves to
cater to this growing
population. Today, 62%
of retail chains and 27%
of independent retailers
accept some form of
debit or credit card pay-
ment for Lottery pur-
chases. We expect those
numbers to increase as
retailers take advantage
of the new 1% commis-
sion incentive.
There is no question
that the trend of going
cashless is here to stay.
Consumers continue to
spend more and more
each year using debit and
credit cards. According
to The Nilson Report,
consumers in the U.S.
spent $4.442 trillion at
merchants in 2014 using
Visa, Mas-terCard,
American Express, and
Discover debit and credit
cards. That is an in-
crease of nearly 9%
compared to 2013. The
use of debit and credit cards is expected to con-
tinue climbing, and it’s important for the Lottery
and retailers to meet the expectations of our cus-
tomers. Ask your Lottery sales representative if
you have any questions about the incentive.
BeAware:ScammersOfferingRetailers
AssistanceWithSNAPAuthorization
The USDA Food and Nutrition Service has issued an alert: There have
been reports of SNAP applicant retailers receiving calls from a third party
offering assistance in obtaining SNAP authorization. In most instances,
the individuals contacted have recently submitted their SNAP Retailer
Application, and the scammer is offering to expedite their SNAP authori-
zation for a fee.
Please note: SNAP does not charge a fee for processing your re-
tailer application, nor does any outside entity have the ability to expedite
your application. In addition, never provide personal information or your
credit card number over the phone to unsolicited callers.Any request for
information about you or your business will come via an official letter
from USDA after you have filed an application.
If you are uncertain about any request regarding your application to
become a SNAP retailer, you may contact the SNAP Retailer Service
Center at (877) 823-4369.
If you have already fallen victim to this or a similar scam, please visit
www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/ for more information on identity
theft.
WHERE APPLES LOVE TO GROW™
Help Apples Take Back the Season!
Other products try to own Fall, but we know
Fall is synonymous with apples. Join MAC on
social media with #MIApples for a little friendly
competition to help us take back Fall!
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where apples love to grow. Contact your
Michigan Apple supplier today.
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MeijermPerksDigitalProgramTurnsFive
MGA Member Meijer’s free digital savings program, mPerks, turned five at the end of
August and has already set a company record with $100 million in savings to customers this year.
Launched in 2010, Meijer now has nearly 4 million mPerks members who have clipped more
than 1 billion digital coupons, with total savings eclipsing $400 million over the last five years.
mPerks was launched as a way to help customers save money at the register by offering a
faster, more convenient way to clip coupons. It has grown to include personalized rewards and
digital tools that help customers plan their entire shopping trip from home. mPerks has a redemption
rate that is four times higher than the national average and frequent users are saving an average of
15% a year.
Meijer was also one of the first retailers to provide a mobile app that allows customers to
access shopping tools and receive digital receipts to better track their spending and savings
information.
CoketobeFirst
F&B Company
toReplenishAll
WateritUses
Kroger Tops Customer
ServiceHallofFame
MGA Member The Kroger Co. gained first-
place recognition among supermarkets and fifth place
overall in 24/7 Wall St.Annual 2015 Customer Service
Hall of Fame. 24/7 Wall St. is a corporation that runs a
financial news and opinion company. Kroger made its
debut on the list this year, placing with such notable
names asAmazon, Chick-fil-A,Apple, and Marriott.
According to Kroger-Michigan President Jayne
Homco, the Customer Service Hall of Fame recog-
nizes companies that truly stand out by creating a posi-
tive experience for their cus-
tomers.
A research survey polled
more than 1,500 adults re-
garding the quality of cus-
tomer service they received at
151 ofAmerica’s best-known
companies in 15 industries.
“We are very honored to
have Kroger top the super-
markets on this prestigious
list,” Homco said. “Customer
service is not just a philoso-
phy but a commitment we
emphasize every day.”
Research participants
were asked to rate each
company’s service as excel-
lent, good, fair, or poor. More
than 77% of survey respon-
dents reported a good or ex-
cellentexperiencewithKroger.
MGA Associate Mem-
ber Cola-Cola Company
and its bottling partners set the
goal that by 2020, they will
safely return to communities
and nature an amount of wa-
ter equal to what they use in
their finished beverages and
their production.
Company Chairman and
CEO Muhtar Kent says they
are on track. Coca-Cola esti-
mates to have balanced 94%
of the water used in 2014.
Based on this, the company
believes it will meet the 2020
goal by the end of 2015.
Coca-Cola is able to give
back the amount of water
equivalent to what it uses in
its finished beverages and
their production through re-
plenishment projects, increas-
ing water use efficiency in its
plants, and returning water to
watersheds and municipalities
through wastewater treat-
ment.

UBCR, LLC
4820 Holtz Drive
Wixom, Michigan 48393
(888) 422-7404
www.ubcrllc.com
Your Third Party Pick-Up Agent for Used Beverage Containers
Retail Store Eligibility
UBCR serves retail store locations that:
Redeem over 750,000 containers annually;
Have weather protected, secured storage capacity to hold a minimum of 20 UBCR bins;
Use reverse vending machines.
Retailers, for more information contact Jennifer Brewer (248) 529-2364  jbrewer@ubcrllc.com
Study Reveals Debit Card’s Durbin Amendment
ImpactonRetailers
Under the Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-
Frank financial reform bill, Congress required the
Federal Reserve to impose rules to make the debit
card market more competitive and make the fees
the card companies charged more reasonable.
But, according to the Merchants Payment Coa-
lition, the Fed bowed to heavy pressure from the
banks and introduced only half-measures. For in-
stance, it doubled its own original estimate of a
fair fee on a debit transaction. For some small
transactions, the fees actually went up.
A new study by the Richmond Federal Reserve
shows that, as a result of the Fed’s actions, 90%
of merchants haven’t seen any savings, didn’t
know if there were any savings, or saw their costs
actually rise — the opposite effect Congress envi-
sioned when it passed debit reform five years ago.
According to figures the banks report to the
Fed, they still earn a 500% profit on those fees,
which they charge merchants every time a cus-
tomer swipes a debit card to pay for something.
According to the coalition — which includes
retailers, supermarkets, drug stores, convenience
stores, and more —the Fed’s rules have failed to
create the result Congress intended: A fair, com-
petitive market.
DoYouOfferEnough
Local Products?
With autumn products hitting store shelves, a
survey by Precima shows that 85% of American
shoppers say buying local products is important to
them, and more than one-third are willing to pay a
15-30% premium for local items. In addition, 82%
report they would increase their monthly grocery
spend if local alternatives were more readily avail-
able and 87% are more inclined to purchase a
local product when they know the story behind
the grower or processer.
Only 15% rate large retail chains as excellent
at stocking and promoting local products, com-
pared to 71% rating local farmer’s market excel-
lent and 23% rating natural
food store excellent. More
than 40% of those surveyed
said large retail chains do a
poor job at stocking and pro-
moting local products.
Additional key findings:
 A majority of people
choose local to support the lo-
cal economy/local business
(37%), followed by local prod-
ucts are better made.
 Most shoppers want to
see local products alongside
regular products (42%) vs lo-
cal breakout sections within
shelf sets (28%), end of aisle
displays (11%), or a mini-lo-
cal store within the grocery
store (19%).
 60% of shoppers say
chain retailers don’t stock
enough local products.
 42% say chains don’t to
a good job at highlighting lo-
cally produced items.
FrontofPack
NutritionLabels
Prompt Buying
Consumers are more likely
to purchase foods that carry
front-of-package nutrition la-
bels no mater what their nu-
tritional value, according to a
study published in Public
Health Nutrition.
Researchers at the Univer-
sity of Otago in New Zealand
found that neither the size nor
format of the label, or even the
nutritional data on the label
mattered; simply having a
front-of-package label on a
product meant that consumers
were significantly more likely
to buy the item.
The authors of the study say
the results suggest a “complete
functional failure” of current
nutrition labels, calling for fur-
ther research before countries
make them mandatory, as is
being considered in the U.S.

BeSuretoStockUponTheseMichiganWines
Twenty-five wine experts from around the country gathered August 11 for the 38th annual Michigan
Wine Competition in East Lansing. Judges awarded the top “Best of Class” awards to eight wines from a
group of 63 gold medal winners, including 14 double gold. The Best of Class award-winners are:
The competition is sponsored by the he Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council and Kellogg Hotel
and Conference Center, which hosted a Gold Medal Wine Reception featuring the best wines from the
competition on August 20. Over 300 people attended.
The winners: Dave Albert, Boathouse Vineyards; Joe Herman, Karma
Vista Vineyards; Peter Laing, MAWBY; Matt Frollo, St. Ambrose
Cellars; Sean O’Keefe, Mari Vineyards; Jay Briggs, 45 North Winery
and Vineyards; and Matt Gregory, Chateau de Leelanau.
Sparkling:
MAWBY/L Mawby Tradition
Dry White:
Boathouse Vineyards 2013 Dry Dock Riesling
Dry Red:
Mari Vineyards 2012 Praefectus
Semi-dry White:
Boathouse Vineyards 2014 Semi-Sweet Riesling
Semi-dry Red:
Karma Vista Vineyards 2014 Devil's Head Red
Dessert:
45 North Vineyard & Winery 2013 Riesling Ice Wine
Fruit:
Chateau de Leelanau Cherry Wine
Rosé:
St. Ambrose Cellars 2014 Vin Gris from Pinot Noir
Family-owned and Michigan-
based since 1920, Dawn
has been working for more
than 90 years to bring you
products, ideas and insights
to help you make your
bakery their bakery. We appreciate
being a part of the Michigan Grocers
Association and are proud to support
its members.

I do not support expanding
the bottle bill to include addi-
tional containers. I don’t want
to turn our grocery stores into
landfills. I know firsthand a bit
of what it’s like to manage the
current bottle bill because our
restaurant provided some take
out service, and so I took some
cans and bottles back as well.
It’s a dirty, smelly job for small
businesses. And for large
scale operations using reverse
vending machines, it’s a very
expensive process to manage.
It would be difficult for both
large and small retailers to
manage the system if we
added more containers.
Give us a glimpse
into the personal side
of your life:
My wife, Veronica, and I
have been married 32 years.
We have two grown children.
Our daughterAndrea is a sous
chef in Grand Rapids. Our son,
Kevin, and his wife, Ruth,
have one son and a daughter
on the way. We also have
Facebook’s most famous
puppy, Riley. He’s a Basset
and Beagle mix.
I do a lot of traveling for my
job,puttingabout50,000miles
a year on the car. But I try not
to work on Sundays. That day
is set aside for time we call
‘Sunday at the Horns’ where
we enjoy having friends and
family over.
Where do you shop
for groceries?
Kroger — that’s our local
store. My wife is the main gro-
cery shopper.
When we owned Horn’s
Restaurant, I cooked. When
we sold it, I said I would never
cook again. I’ve since
amended that very strict rule,
so that I will cook now for en-
joyment — I especially enjoy
grilling for family and friends.
Profile:Senator Horn
AGSuesCompanyforDeceptive
BusinessPractices
Michigan Attorney General Bill
Schuette filed a civil lawsuit to prevent
acompanycalledDivisionofCorporate
Services Inc. and its officers Chad
Davis, Joshua Strawn, and Tate Howe,
from further operation in Michigan af-
terallegationsofdeceitfulbusinessprac-
tices designed to dupe Michigan small
businessesandnon-profitorganizations.
The lawsuit alleges that the company
sent misleading mailings designed to
look like an official state form that cor-
porate representatives are required to
completeyearlytokeeptheirbusinesses
in good standing. Recipients were
asked to return the form with payment
to a Lansing address. It is alleged the
responding businesses were actually
buying fake meeting minutes for their
business. The suit seeks $150 refunds
for all Michigan businesses that re-
sponded to the mailing.
USDA’s Agricultural Market-
ing Service (AMS) has launched
a redesigned web site to increase
transparency and improve stake-
holder access to information.
See www.ams.usda.gov/rules-
regulations/cool to view Country
of Origin Labeling outreach bro-
chures, industry presentations, and
training materials for state coop-
USDA Launches New Country
ofOriginLabelingWebSite
erators,aswellastheCOOLCom-
pliance and Enforcement Require-
ments document, forms, common
questions and answers, plus an of-
ten-updated section on changes
and updates to the current law.
In addition, the web site fea-
tures a responsive design that
makes it easy to use on mobile
devices.
continued from page 5

A
OF
WORLD
REFRESHMENT
© 2014 PepsiCo, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This ad contains valuable trademarks owned and used by PepsiCo, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates to distinguish products of outstanding quality.

By Kevin Besey, Director, Food and Dairy Division, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
MDARDNews
LegislatureApprovesFeeIncreasesforFoodBusinessLicenses
The Michigan Legislature approved fee in-
creases for food business licenses to allow the
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural
Development (MDARD) to increase the number
of inspections conducted, help more businesses expand as they work to be in
compliance with state and federal rules, and enhance customer service by
becoming a mobile workforce.
Fees have not increased in 15 years, and during that time, Michigan has
seen a 15% increase in the number of licensed food establishments while
staff numbers have decreased by 8%. During that same time period, the
number of food processing facilities has increased by 50%.
The three-year fee increase phase-in would bring the
amount paid by industry to just 37% of the total cost to run
the Food Safety and Inspection Program. The rest is paid for
by state General Fund dollars and federal grants.
This additional funding will allow MDARD to meet an in-
spection frequency schedule based on food safety risk of ev-
ery six months for high-risk businesses, every 12 months for
medium-risk,andevery18monthsforlow-riskestablishments,
while at the same time meeting all the business services needs
for new and expanding food businesses in Michigan.
Food evaluations are especially important to smaller busi-
nesses who may have limited resources to monitor their food
processes. MDARD’s highly trained food inspectors are
sometimes a business’s last line of defense against the high
cost of foodborne illness and recalls. They provide an unbi-
ased review of the flow of food and provide guidance for
effective control of food operations.
Fee Increases for Various Food Business Licensees
The chart shows the three-year phase in for fee increases for specific
food business license types. For example, the current Retail Food Grocery
fee is $70. It increases incrementally each year to $109, $148, and $186.
All 2016 fees are effective October 1, 2015. All fees shown include a $3
Food Safety Education Fund fee for industry and consumer training and
education. About 90% of Michigan food businesses require licenses from
the categories in the blue shaded area.
For more information, contact your inspector directly or at (800) 292-
3939, or visit www.michigan.gov/foodsafety.

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AuntMillies.com/BestGrains
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Apackage of bills reforming the
state’s civil asset forfeiture policies
has passed the House, cleared the
Senate Judiciary Committee, and
now awaits action from the full
Senate.
The current Civil Asset Forfei-
ture laws allow police to take prop-
erty from businesses and citizens
if they suspect a crime was com-
mitted, even when there is not
enough evidence to charge them.
The bills create more transpar-
ency by requiring reports from law
enforcement agencies regarding
forfeitures. Also included in the
package are changes to the evi-
dentiary standard for both drug and
public nuisance forfeitures.
The package as a whole would
raise the minimum standard by
which property can be seized, from
a “preponderance of the evidence”
connecting the property to a crime
to “clear and convincing evidence.”
AssetForfeiture
ReformMoves
Through
Legislature
According to new FMI research, adults participate
in shopping in one of four broad ways.
(1) One-fourth of shoppers (25%) live alone and
therefore shop only for themselves; we can think of
these as Self Shoppers. This group is roughly evenly
split between male and female shoppers.
(2) Less than half (43%) live in a multi-person house-
hold and claim almost full, singular responsibility for its
grocery shopping; these we call Primary Shoppers, even
as they show signs of ceding some of their former con-
trol.
(3)About 10% of adults contribute to shopping as a
Secondary Shopper, acknowledging another adult as
the primary decisionmaker.
(4) A final one-fourth of shoppers (23%) say that
shopping is fully “shared” between or among adults in
their household, with no primary/secondary distinction.
Shared Shoppers, like Self Shoppers, comprise a fairly
even split of men and women.
Conclusion: As a result of profound social changes
that affect gender roles and shopping behaviors, the
old ways of understanding shoppers and shopping have
shown unmistakable signs of wearing out. Reliance on
a Primary Shopper framework and assumptions now
leads to survey results that are at the face of it incon-
sistent with reality.
FMI says, “While marketers may prefer simplicity,
reality here is too complex to ignore: in the emerging
Shared Shopper Paradigm, the role of the Primary Shop-
per is being replaced with multiple shoppers who di-
vide and share grocery shopping responsibilities.”
As U.S. households shift towards a Shared Shopping
Paradigm, what should food retailers do differently?
• Utilize communication technologies and platforms to
enable shoppers to better coordinate household shopping
roles and responsibilities.
• Align Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
database and loyalty programs to more consistently, accu-
rately, and exhaustively pair co-shoppers within households.
PrimaryShopperReplacedbyMoreCommonSharedShopping

AmericansSayTheyTrytoEatMoreFruit,Vegetables;DrinkLessSoda
Americans are aware of the health
benefits of fruits and vegetables, with at
least nine in 10 saying they actively try to
includeeachintheirdiet.Thisisthefinding
of Gallup’s annual Consumption Habits
poll. Americans do not always achieve this
goal: 57.7% report they have five or more
servings of fruits and vegetables at least
four days a week. According to the survey,
there are only three types of food that 50%
or more say they actively try to avoid: diet
soda, regular soda, and sugar. At least six
in 10 U.S. adults say they are trying to steer
clear of soda — both diet and regular.
% Don’t
% Include % Avoid Think About
Diet soda 22 62 14
Regular soda 22 61 16
Sugar 28 50 22
Fat 25 47 27
Salt 35 39 25
Carbs 44 25 29
Beef & other red meat 63 20 17
Gluten-free foods 21 17 58
Grains 70 14 15
Dairy 68 13 17
Organics 44 11 44
Fish & other seafood 76 10 13
Chicken & other poultry 83 4 12
Vegetables 93 2 5
Fruits 90 1 8
Source: Gallup
Survey Question: For each of the following please say if it is something you actively try to include in your diet, something
you actively try to avoid, or something you don’t think about either way.
% Don’t
% Include % Avoid Think About
The Food Marketing Insti-
tute Foundation launched a
Septembermarketinginitiative
aimed at highlighting food re-
tailers’uniquefamilymealpro-
grams and commitment to
bring families back to the
table, one meal at a time.
FMI created a download-
able toolkit featuring custom-
izable promotional and social
media materials that enable
grocers and CPG brands to
easily integrate National Fam-
ilyMealsMonthmarketinginto
their existing promotional
schedules.Access the toolkit:
www.fmifamily meals.com.
A consumer-facing web
site also is now available for
retailers to leverage with
shoppers on social media and
company web site links:
www.NationalFamilyMeals
Month.org.
FMI asks retailers to share
information about their cam-
paign efforts with them at
familymeals@fmi.org. FMI’s
public relations department
will use the information retail-
ers share to help spread the
word and tell the story of our
industry’s month-long efforts.
Later this year, in partner-
ship with Nielsen, the FMI
Foundation will create a white
paper to recap the 2015 pro-
gram and provide inspiration
formembercampaignsin2016
and beyond.
FMIKicksOffNew
Initiative:Family
Meals Month

Is your business
struggling to compete?
Declining sales and margins are some
o t e rst signs o di cult times or a
business. For over 100 years, we’ve
built our company by strategically
leveraging our buying power and
operational excellence, coupled with our
seasoned sales managers and personal
retail experience, to provide our 1,900
customers the resources to become
more pro table.
How we can help?
With our geographic coverage, we provide
volume leveraged economies of scale and
tremendous buying power. We pass these
savings on to you
We own and operate our own stores and offer
over 100 value added services to our partners.
All of this experience is shared with you
We operate over 20 wholesale distribution
centers so our delivery times are quicker and
more frequent
Visit SpartanNash.com
for more information or call
our Great Lakes Region
business development team:
Jim Gohsman 616-878-8088
Ed Callihan 330-440-5743
Roger Delemeester 989-245-0337

Michigan-Food-News-September-2015

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