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Galesburg is home to Sprinkle & Spoon, a vibrant retail venture offering an allergy-free alternative to ice cream. Co-owners Lora Barajas, Jania Glass, and Gabriel Wynkoop say they feel the weight of state and local requirements necessary to operate their business. Jania wants lawmakers to know that like most small retailers, they are working diligently to follow every rule but wishes there could be more assistance offered.

Findings of a recent economic study are clear: the retail sector is a cornerstone of the state’s economy and crucial to our everyday lives. Retail in Illinois directly contributes more than $112 billion in economic investment annually – more than 10 percent of the state’s total Gross Domestic Product.

Policies that support small businesses help communities thrive as retailers like Sprinkle & Spoon are better equipped to meet local needs. We Are Retail and IRMA are showcasing the retailers who make Illinois work.