By Wettlin Treppendahl
It’s one thing to tell someone something – it’s another thing to show them.
I can go to Washington when NGA has its meetings on Capitol Hill to explain to lawmakers how what they’re doing affects small, independent grocery operators. It really is a great opportunity to put a face on the issues that are important to us.
But having your representative in Congress come visit your store – that really hits home.
Treppendahl’s had the opportunity to host Congressman Bennie Thompson, a Democrat from Mississippi’s 2nd District. My family has owned and operated our store since 1924. Congressman Thompson was able to see our team in action, serving our customers, and really see how important a successful grocery store is to a community, especially when you’ve been around for 100 years.
To be around for the next hundred, it’s important to show all the folks in Congress why antitrust reform is crucial to putting independent grocers on a level playing field with the big national chains, how rising credit card fees are squeezing our bottom line, and how the SNAP program helps us bring more healthy food to the people most in need.
Some advice for when you host a guest from Congress: Make sure your whole staff is prepared. Let them know who is coming and how important it is to speak to the person coming to your store. Make sure they call the congressperson by their proper name. As they speak, say their name out loud, not just hello. Your guest should leave feeling welcomed, respected and appreciated, because you want them to remember what they saw.
So, take it from me – hosting a store tour for your member of Congress is a great idea. Do your part to help the future of your business and reach out to NGA – just fill out this form and they’ll take care of the rest.
Take advantage of NGA’s August Month of Action and do it now!
Wettlin Treppendahl owns and operates Treppendahl’s Super Foods in Woodville, Miss.
