The Council of State Retail Associations was organized to improve and advance the retail industry through close cooperation and mutual assistance among state retail association executives. This is accomplished through the exchange of general and technical information on issues of importance to the associations and to the members the associations represent.

To further these goals, the Council acts as a forum for discussion of important issues of primary concern on state legislation and regulations affecting the retail industry. It provides a place for discussion of state association management operations and programs, while serving as a clearinghouse for information, technical assistance, and action on matters requiring special attention by state retail associations.