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Small business sales jump 6.6%: Report

Small business sales improved in June to be 6.6% higher year-on-year, according to an ANZ report, although non-retail and service sector small businesses continue to outperform those in retail.

The 10 rules of the new retail game

The retail landscape in Australia may not be dead, but the shifts that have taken place have hurt several major players. So how can the little guys adapt to the evolving marketplace?

Small business owners’ stress levels on the rise: Report

A new survey shows more than half of Australia’s small business owners are more stressed now than 12 months ago.

Go Gecko property franchise in administration

Queensland property franchise Go Gecko has been placed into voluntary administration, but the company says its franchisees will be unaffected by the move.

Consumer optimism dubbed a “mirage” as BSI falls 0.3%

The recent optimism about consumer spending has been labeled a “mirage” by a leading economist, with the latest Commonwealth Bank Business Sales Indicator falling by 0.3%.

Start-up retailers urged not to fret over Costco expansion

As Costco opens its third Australian store today industry experts say small retailers shouldn’t worry, claiming some will actually benefit from the expansion.

Westpac flags interest rate cut but other banks uncertain

Westpac is predicting a 1% cut to interest rates, putting it at odds with the other major banks, as low consumer sentiment continues to hurt business confidence.

Small business push for carbon price modelling

Industry groups are calling for greater clarity on carbon price policy, claiming the small business sector has been left in limbo with regard to how the tax will impact on bottom lines.

KFC operator Collins Foods set to float

Franchise operator Collins Foods, operator of KFC outlets in Queensland, will join the Australian Securities Exchange next month with a capitalisation of about $235 million.

Spencer St receivership highlights shopping centre struggles

Start-ups have been warned to think twice before taking out a lease in a major shopping centre after it was revealed that Spencer Street Fashion Station has been placed in receivership.

Younger shoppers spending beyond their means: D&B

Younger consumers are more willing to spend than their older counterparts but are relying on credit cards to do so a new Dun & Bradstreet survey reveals.

Consumer sentiment plunges amid carbon tax and rates fears

Consumer sentiment has hit a two-year low as concerns escalate about the European financial crisis, the ongoing impact of interest rate rises and the carbon tax.

Study your supply chain

The details of the carbon tax are out. You need to take a look at your supply chain to see how your business will be impacted.

Lack of marketing blamed for Bettina Liano downfall

Supermarkets’ record-low bread prices to impact on bakery franchises

Sales of private label bread have doubled since Coles and Woolworths slashed prices to $1 a loaf earlier this month, putting pressure on independent bakery operators.

Manufacturing, tourism and retail worst hit by jump in collapses

Insolvency experts are urging retailers, manufacturers and tourism operators to downgrade growth targets in light of new insolvency figures revealing that those sectors are the hardest hit.

Retail sales fall 0.6% in May as consumers anticipate rate rise

Retail sales unexpectedly fell 0.6% in May according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics as consumers adopt a wait and see approach to spending while they await the next interest rate rise.

SMEs fearful of super contributions hike: report

Survey reveals widespread confusion is accompanying impending super contribution changes.

Reviewing your financial year

I’m a believer in the adage that you can’t go forwards by looking backwards. To ascertain your next move, you need to explore your mistakes.

Pessimism increasing among companies: KPMG

Pessimism is increasing among Australian companies, according to a new KPMG survey, despite opportunities arising from the resources sector and the digital economy.