New Zealand’s retail sector is showing signs of resilience, with consumer spending back into the black following a challenging period of high fuel prices and economic uncertainty.
Category - Insights & media
New research showing illicit tobacco now makes up a third of the New Zealand market reinforces Retail NZ’s own report on illicit tobacco earlier this year.
"When value is up but volume is flat, it tells us consumers are paying more for the same basket of goods. That's not the same as a genuine increase in retail activity, and it's something we're watching closely," Ms...
Retail NZ is urging the Government to prioritise stimulating the economy and reducing cost-of-living in this week’s Budget.Â
Retail NZ says the Government has missed the opportunity to get people back out spending in their communities and encourage economic growth in today’s Budget.Â
“These figures show us that while New Zealanders’ budgets have taken a hit from the increase in fuel prices, they are still out in our stores buying the essentials,” Retail NZ Chief Executive, Carolyn Young, says.Â
“Retailers will be breathing a sigh of relief that all food and freight will be considered a priority, behind critical life-supporting services, under the revised plan announced today” Retail NZ, Carolyn Young, says.Â
“Retail NZ is pleased that the Government has recognised the illicit tobacco market is an immediate concern for New Zealand that requires targeted action now.” Retail NZ Chief Executive, Carolyn Young, says.Â
Retail NZ says retailers are largely in support of the Employment Leave Bill currently before select committee, but hold serious concerns about the proposed 12.5% Leave Compensation Payment.
Retail NZ’s quarterly survey for Q1 2026 shows just how volatile the sector can be, with the current global fuel crisis turning the outlook for retailers from highly optimistic to largely pessimistic.Â
