Downtown Elk River Business Association Recognized as Retail Community of the Year

St. Paul (October 3, 2024) – Minnesota Retailers is proud to announce the Downtown Elk River Business Association as the recipient of the Retail Community of the Year award, part of the 2024-2025 Minnesota Retail Champions program.

"The Downtown Elk River Business Association is a true partnership, and has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to creating a vibrant and thriving downtown, setting an example for other communities throughout Minnesota," said Bruce Nustad, President of Minnesota Retailers. "With local businesses, the chamber, the city and others working closely through the Downtown Elk River Business Association, Elk River showcases how collaboration can build a flourishing retail environment that benefits both businesses and residents."

Deana McLean, owner of Salon on Main and Eclectic Boutique, and Chair of the Downtown Elk River Business Association, expressed her pride in receiving the award: "We are absolutely thrilled to be honored with this award. Our downtown businesses have worked tirelessly to create a true sense of community and make Elk River a destination for shopping, dining, and gathering. This award reflects the passion and dedication of every business owner, and we’re excited to continue building on this success with our partners."

"As Executive Director of the Elk River Area Chamber, I’ve had the privilege of watching the Downtown Elk River Business Association foster an incredible sense of collaboration and growth among our local businesses,” commented Debbi Rydberg. “What truly sets DERBA apart is the way these small businesses not only focus on their own success but actively support one another. This spirit of community is rare, and it has helped transform downtown Elk River into a vibrant, welcoming place for both residents and visitors. It’s an honor to witness this kind of collective dedication."

In recent years, Elk River has transformed its downtown into a lively center for commerce and culture, drawing in residents and visitors alike. Led by the Downtown Elk River Business Association, the community has prioritized supporting local businesses, hosting events, and creating an inviting atmosphere for all. Elk River’s revitalization efforts have included a range of events, promotions, and strategic partnerships that enhance the retail experience. Local businesses work together to attract foot traffic, while the city invests in infrastructure and improvements to further enrich the downtown experience.

Downtown Elk River Business Association was nominated by the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce and is the sole recipient of the Retail Community of the Year award within the Minnesota Retail Champions program. Nine other organizations and individuals will also be recognized in categories such as Retail Mentor of the Year, Vendor Partner of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, Customer Experience, Advocate of the Year, Retail Innovation, Social Responsibility, Retailer of the Year, and Best Place to Work.

McLean along with Jennifer Wagner and several partners will receive the award at the Retail Rally event on Thursday, October 10, 2024, starting at 2:00 p.m. at Brookview in Golden Valley. The event will include an engaging panel discussion titled “Game Changers: Transforming the Retail Landscape in Minnesota,” featuring speakers like Minny & Paul founder Laura Roos, Nosh Posh founder Tatiana Freeman, and Victual owner and president Paul Kirkman, and Ali Kaplan with Twin Cities Business. For more event details, visit www.retailrally.com.

Click here to watch a video featuing this award winner!

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Click here to see all the 2024-2025 Minnesota's Retail Champions.

Click here to see all the photos from Retail Rally.

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