[The following is a paid advertisement.]

Raoul Bergersen, owner of Valley Orchard in Cherry Valley, has grown fruit and welcomed customers to experience the best of local agriculture for 50 years. After a challenging spring, he’s adapting with a focus on pumpkins, fall raspberries, baked goods, and other seasonal favorites. His resilience and commitment to his family-owned business show how Illinois retailers continue to adapt and grow, no matter what challenges come their way.

Retail generates $7.3 billion in income and sales tax revenue each year in Illinois. These funds support public safety, infrastructure, education, and other important programs we all rely on every day. In fact, retail is the second largest revenue generator for the State of Illinois and the largest revenue generator for local governments.

Policies that support small businesses help communities thrive as retailers like Raoul in Cherry Valley are better equipped to meet local needs. We Are Retail and IRMA are showcasing the retailers who make Illinois work. Please visit https://WeAreRetail.IRMA.org/.