Storage units crammed with old couches and kitchenware are a long way from designer fashion. But as retail changes, so are the types of businesses that will survive in former anchor stores in the state’s malls.
Paula Gardner
As Bridge Michigan's senior business reporter, Paula Gardner covers Michigan's business landscape, focusing on topics such as the auto industry, electric vehicles and economic development. She came to Bridge in 2020 after covering business and environment for MLive.com and previously served as editor of the Ann Arbor News and news director of the startup AnnArbor.com.
A metro Detroit native, Paula moved to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan and has called it home for more than 25 years.
Posted inBusiness Watch
In Traverse City, a small parking lot offers hope for workforce housing
What will developers pay to add moderately priced apartments to downtown? The city is about to find out, as it puts one of its properties on the market.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Lack of child care now a ‘crisis’ facing Michigan’s workforce
The state’s economic recovery from the pandemic may be limited, officials say, as fewer child care options keep women out of the workforce. It’s a business issue, too, for child care providers seeking available workers.
Posted inBusiness Watch
As office workers return, a Grand Rapids dry cleaner scrimps to hang on
Office clothes are staples at Michigan’s dry cleaners, which saw revenues crater when workers stayed home during COVID. As offices now reopen, a 70-year-plus family business has new hopes for survival.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Q&A: Michigan fitness club owner says how industry must change after COVID
Fewer gyms, virtual workouts and lingering pandemic concerns all signal changes for the state’s fitness industry as it reopens to 50 percent capacity Tuesday, said Michael Stack, owner of Applied Fitness Solutions.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan streamlines MIOSHA workplace rules as COVID fades
Changes announced Monday follow growing frustration among employers that the state had been too cumbersome and stringent at a time when the state’s COVID vaccination and infection rates were improving.
Posted inBusiness Watch
‘A really good day for business’ as Michigan acts to lift COVID limits
With state business restrictions set to end July 1, pandemic workplace rules — like health screening, social distance, surface cleaning and masks — will be updated this week. Business leaders are thrilled though they note tricky strategic decisions lay ahead.
Posted inMichigan Government
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer: All COVID restrictions to end in Michigan on July 1
One week after new CDC guidance, the governor says she will end restrictions on outdoor events on June 1 and end remaining rules in time for Independence Day holiday.
Posted inBusiness Watch
As Michigan eases COVID orders, businesses want to lift work rules too
Business groups are frustrated with MIOSHA, which is pushing ahead on hearings to make pandemic work rules permanent even as the governor is easing rules on masks for residents.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan turns to New Orleans for new economic development CEO
Quentin Messer Jr. wants to increase prosperity across the state when he takes over the $139 million agency. He says Michigan has a ‘spectacular’ talent base.