Alabama Retail Association
Government Relations ServicesAlabama, United States11-50 Employees
The Alabama Retail Association (ARA) is a state-focused trade association in the government relations services sector, based in Montgomery, Alabama. It was established in 1943 by retailers to advocate on public policy matters affecting the retail industry in Alabama. Today, it represents about 4,000 member businesses ranging from large national chains to family-owned stores, operating around 6,000 locations statewide and selling a wide array of goods from groceries to apparel and home furnishings. The association's primary function is to advocate for its members' interests with respect to state public policy, representing retailers in Alabama before policymakers. It serves a broad spectrum of retailers and their statewide footprint through its policy work and activities. A recent development is Melissa Cross being named Chair of the Board of Directors in January 2026.