Benders Recognized as Community Retailer of the Year

St. Paul (October 1, 2025) – Minnesota Retailers is proud to recognize Benders Shoes, Clothing, and Gifts with the Community Retailer of the Year award as part of the 2025-2026 Minnesota Retail Champions program.

"For over 50 years and through three generations, Benders has been a cornerstone of its communities," said Bruce Nustad, President of the Minnesota Retailers. "Their unwavering dedication to the communities they serve and their genuine connection with customers, sets a high standard for what it means to be a true community partner. Benders embodies the spirit of local retail, and we are honored to celebrate their deep-rooted commitment."

"We are incredibly humbled and honored to be named Community Retailer of the Year," said Tara Bender Paulson, co-owner of Benders. "Our family has always believed that a successful business is one that gives back to the people it serves. This award is a testament to our team and our amazing customers, who have supported us for five decades. We are proud to be a part of the Grand Rapids, Hibbing, and Duluth communities and look forward to continuing our legacy of service."

Since its founding in 1973 by Roland and Angie Bender, the family-owned business has grown to three locations, offering high-quality footwear, apparel, and unique gifts. Benders has a long-standing tradition of local support, focusing on organizations and events that promote learning, growth, and healing within their local communities.

The Benders team will accept the award at Retail Rally on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, starting at 2:00 p.m. The event—held at Brookview in Golden Valley—will feature an insightful keynote presentation from Business Growth Advisor Tamara Prato, titled “Driving Retail Growth: People, Planning, and Your Best Customers.” For more event details, visit www.retailrally.com.

Click here to watch a video featuring this award winner!

Click here to see all the 2025-2026 Minnesota's Retail Champions!

About Minnesota Retailers: Minnesota Retailers is a non-profit association formed to improve communities through a holistic investment in retail, representing small, regional, and national retailers. Our mission is to ensure collective success across Minnesota by advancing retail for businesses, employees, consumers, and policymakers. Our vision is to be the driving force in the evolution of the state's retail landscape through advocacy, valuable insights, and championing innovation. More at www.mnretail.org.

Contact: Bruce Nustad, Minnesota Retailers, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (651) 227-6631