Australian Retailers Association

An industry wishlist for Small Business Commissioner Mark Brennan – and his take on things

2:36PM | Monday, 11 February 2013 |  Mark Brennan recently began his new role as the federal small business commissioner. Here are the key issues industry groups want Brennan to address, along with Brannan’s views on the key issues facing business. BY MICHELLE HAMMOND.

Business groups fear policy paralysis following election announcement

1:43PM | Thursday, 31 January 2013 |  Yesterday’s announcement of the 2013 federal election date garnered a largely positive response from business groups, but there are now concerns about “policy paralysis” within government.

Retailers rejoice over extended trading after November sales slide

1:01PM | Thursday, 10 January 2013 |  New retail sales figures show sales slid by 0.1% in November, but the December figures could see a significant turnaround.

Gen X pips Boomers to lead online retail spending

1:51PM | Thursday, 10 January 2013 |  Generation X remains the key generational group for online spending, according to analysis by NAB, with an industry expert attributing the finding to Gen X’s easy access to technology.

Retailers handed new year security warning

1:38PM | Wednesday, 9 January 2013 |  The start of a new year is the ideal time for retailers to review their security measures, says the Australian Retailers Association, which claims that theft costs the industry $7.5 billion a year.

Start-ups put on festive notice following gift card warning

12:51PM | Monday, 3 December 2012 |  Start-ups planning to offer gift cards this Christmas have been urged to include all the necessary information, after the NSW fair trading minister issued a warning to consumers over misrepresentation.

Franchise council launches professional accreditation program

11:42PM | Thursday, 29 November 2012 |  The Franchise Council of Australia has partnered with a US organisation to launch a professional accreditation program, described as a “must” for franchisors, franchisees and suppliers.

‘Fitting fees’ challenged as consumers shun in-store research: Report

11:00PM | Thursday, 15 November 2012 |  Less than 5% of consumers research products in-store before eventually purchasing them online, new research reveals, suggesting there is no need for retailers to introduce “fitting fees”.

Five ways to get the most out of the Christmas spending rush

10:02PM | Tuesday, 16 October 2012 |  It’s already October, which means it’s time to start preparing for the festive season. Here are five things you should do to bring your business some extra Christmas cheer. BY MICHELLE HAMMOND.