(CHICAGO) May 19, 2014 – Last Wednesday, NAMA joined with the Michigan Distributors & Vendors Association (MDVA) to take part in its 2014 “Legislative Day at the Capitol” in Lansing, Michigan. MDVA represents two significant business segments in the state of Michigan: wholesale distributors of grocery/convenience products and vending machine and food service operators. As an organization, MDVA has garnered respect from some of the state’s highest ranking officials, and its annual Legislative day is one of the most highly anticipated events each year.
This year’s Legislative Day included a briefing, followed by remarks from Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley, Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe), Senate Minority Leader Gretchen Whitmer (D-East Lansing), Speaker of the House Jase Bolger (R-Marshall), and House Minority Leader Tim Greimel (D-Oakland County). The attendees then delivered vending-related treats to more than 250 legislators’ offices, and afterwards participated in a luncheon with legislators from various districts across the state.
“MDVA does an incredible job of representing our industry and its members who work hard to operate their businesses and support to their communities,” said Jeff Smith, who sits on the Board of Directors of MDVA and is Chair of NAMA’s Government Affairs Committee. “MDVA’s outstanding reputation is reflected by the countless compliments from legislators who recognize the value that its members contribute to the state of Michigan in the form of jobs, industry, and growth. This year’s Legislative Day was an outstanding testament to MDVA’s influence and impact on our industry,” he continued.
NAMA Legislative Director Sheree Edwards was also among the attendees and echoed Smith’s praise of MDVA. “NAMA was delighted about the opportunity to participate in MDVA’s Legislative Day because we want to continue to do our part in supporting their issues and educating elected officials about what the industry needs in order to continue to thrive,” Edwards said. “Further, MDVA is an organization that sets the gold-standard in relationship building. Michigan’s legislators are familiar with the organization from its years of consistent outreach and valued influence, which is why the outcomes from its Legislative Day are so positive,” she concluded.
