Media Releases - Retail NZ

We speak up for retailers, and elevate the voice of retail. Here you can see Retail NZ’s latest commentary in news and media.

For key issues currently affecting the retail sector, we’re engaging with the media. We represent New Zealand’s retail industry. Check out the media releases below!

For enquiries regarding media, press releases and retail news, please contact Carolyn Young on 021 449 452 or email [email protected].

New trespassing proposals a positive step

4 July 2025

Proposals to update and strengthen trespass laws announced today are a positive step in the fight against retail crime, Retail NZ says. “Retail NZ has long been advocating for the trespass laws to be updated so we are pleased to see these proposals,” Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young says.

New shoplifting penalties a step in the right direction

1 July 2025

New penalties for shoplifting announced today are a positive step in the fight against retail crime, Retail NZ says.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has announced increased penalties for theft, including a new infringement regime for low value shoplifting, tougher consequences for threatening or intimidating behaviour associated with shoplifting, and longer maximum prison sentences.

NZ retail industry gathering for inspiration and celebration

13 June 2025

The changing retail environment, international retail trends and the customers of the future will be the focus of a national retail conference being held by Retail NZ this year. Registrations are open for the Inspire Retail 25 conference taking place at the Grand Millennium Hotel, Auckland, on Thursday 28 August.

Joint statement on use of facial recognition technology in retail settings

11 June 2025

The undersigned major New Zealand retailers strongly support the use of fair and accurate technology to protect our workers and customers. We support the option for retailers to use Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) to reduce harm and proactively combat retail crime.

Report confirms facial recognition can be used responsibly to reduce retail crime

4 June 2025

Retailers across New Zealand will welcome today’s findings from the Privacy Commissioner, which confirm that Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) can be used in a way that complies with the Privacy Act, paving the way for responsible use to help tackle rising retail crime, Retail NZ says.

No quick growth for retail in Budget 2025

22 May 2025

The struggling retail sector will see little immediate prospect of an uplift in consumer spending from today’s Budget announcements.

Budget 2025 must deliver consumer confidence

14 May 2025

Retailers will be looking for next week’s Budget announcements to boost consumer confidence and spending, Retail NZ says.

Retailers call for flexibility on Easter Trading hours

17 April 2025

Our latest Retail Radar survey shows retailers views on Easter trading restrictions, proposed changes to the Holidays Act, as well as updated stats on business confidence and sales targets.

Insights into infrastructure disruptions welcome

3 April 2025

A new report reveals the challenges local businesses and communities face during major infrastructure developments, and shows more support is needed during construction.

Retailers welcome H&S reforms for small low-risk businesses

31 March 2025

Government plans to reduce health and safety compliance requirements for small low-risk businesses will be welcomed by small retailers.

Retail NZ’s response to supermarket reforms

30 March 2025

Minister Willis announced this morning a broad range of potentially significant reforms and interventions in the supermarket sector.

Retailers looking for a tourism boost to turnaround trading woes

12 March 2025

Stats NZ electronic card transaction data for February 2025 shows total retail sales were down 4.25% compared to February 2024, with the total number of transactions down 2.7%, in a still struggling economy.

Retail NZ says citizens’ arrests will worsen violence in stores

26 February 2025

Retail NZ has grave fears about proposals released today to empower citizens’ arrests, including the use of physical restraints.

Retailers hope for growth and positivity in 2025

18 February 2025

Retailers are feeling confident about surviving 2025, despite not meeting sales targets over the Christmas season, according to the latest Retail NZ Retail Radar survey.

Retail costs increase while sales remain flat

13 February 2025

Flat retail sales in January are not helping retailers facing ever-increasing costs, Retail NZ comments on new electronic card transaction data from Stats NZ.

Consumer confidence result shows continued retail softness

31 January 2025

The latest ANZ-Roy Morgan NZ Consumer Confidence Index shows that the environment for retailers is ‘likely to remain patchy and challenging for some time yet’.

Economic growth needed to support retail sector

21 January 2025

Electronic card transaction data shows retail sales were down 1% in December 2024 compared to December 2023, and down 2.2% for all of 2024 compared to 2023.

Retailers still under pressure at end of 2024

13 January 2025

New retail spending data shows that despite strong Boxing Day sales, December continued the downward trend of 2024 with a decline in card spending.

Consumer confidence improves in run-up to Christmas

20 December 2024

Retail NZ is celebrating a rise in consumer confidence, revealed in the latest ANZ-Roy Morgan NZ Consumer Confidence Index.

Retailers disappointed at continued ban on Easter trading

18 December 2024

Efforts to lift restrictions on Easter trading have once again failed to proceed, after the Member’s Bill to review Easter trading was voted down in Parliament.

Retail NZ response to Commerce Commission draft surcharges decision

18 December 2024

Retail NZ looks forward to responding to the Commerce Commission’s draft decision on interchange fee regulation in the new year.

Workforce announcements an early Christmas present for retailers

17 December 2024

Two workforce-related announcements by the Government will be a relief to retailers: a moderate minimum wage increase, and changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa.

Ferry announcement welcomed by retailers

11 December 2024

Retail NZ is pleased that the Government has committed to replacing the Cook Strait ferries, as reliable infrastructure is essential for the transport of goods throughout New Zealand.

Retailers feel Christmas cheer

10 December 2024

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for retailers, as Worldline figures show that consumer spending was up in the first seven days of December.

Auckland alcohol sales rules are changing – treat retail workers with respect

9 December 2024

Retail NZ is urging customers to be understanding and considerate to retail workers impacted by today’s changes to alcohol sales in Auckland.

Retail NZ supports use of facial recognition technology

6 December 2024

The results of the Foodstuffs facial recognition trial clearly show that the technology has made a measurable impact in combating crime.

Changes to Employment Relations Act welcomed by retail sector

4 December 2024

Retail sector employers will be generally supportive of proposed changes around the personal grievance system, Retail NZ says.

Black Friday a mixed bag for retail sector

2 December 2024

Reflecting spend data for the weekend released by Worldline, retailers have reported mixed results for the Black Friday sales period.

Rate cut brings hope for Christmas retail trading

27 November 2024

Retail NZ is hopeful the OCR announcement will improve consumer confidence in the run-up to Christmas. A rise in confidence will help retailers, who have been suffering a continued downturn in sales.

Business groups seeking more consultation on Golden Mile

27 November 2024

Three business associations say Wellington City Council must ensure it carries out thorough consultation with Golden Mile businesses, following the decision to proceed with the $139m upgrade of the area.

Retail challenges continue through September quarter

25 November 2024

Retail trade statistics for the September 2024 quarter show the retail sector is continuing to face challenges. Stats NZ’s Retail Trade Survey shows core retail sales fell 1.7% compared to the same quarter of 2023.

Treat all retail crime seriously, Retail NZ says

13 November 2024

Retail NZ is calling for crimes against any retail worker to be treated seriously by the justice system, stating that the Sentencing (Reform) Amendment Bill did not go far enough in deterring crime against retail workers.

Retail challenges continue

12 November 2024

Stats NZ’s latest Electronic Card Transactions shows a 1.1% fall in retail spending in October 2024 compared to October 2023.

New payment app an exciting development

29 October 2024

Payap has been launched as New Zealand’s first digital wallet and Point of Sale (POS) app. It will offer a new lower cost contactless way for customers to pay, as well as other functionality.

Hope triumphs over retail reality

22 October 2024

Retailers are feeling more confident about their future, even though many are still struggling to meet sales targets, according to the latest Retail Radar quarterly survey.

Business groups unite in calling for time out on Wellington CBD roadworks

14 October 2024

Retail NZ, Hospitality NZ and the Bus & Coach Association are calling on Wellington City Council to review its CBD roadworks programme, taking into account the likely impacts on city businesses during these recessionary times.

Retail spending still down in September quarter

14 October 2024

Stats NZ electronic card transactions for September show total retail figures are flat compared to a month earlier, however total retail for the quarter is down -4.4%.

Retail NZ hopes rate cut brings Christmas cheer

9 October 2024

Today’s cut in the Official Cash Rate is an early Christmas present for the retail sector, according to Retail NZ.

Retail sector continues to see decline in retail sales

3 October 2024

The latest spending data from Worldline shows continued woes for retailers in September with all regions across Aotearoa showing a decline in spending year on year.

Facial recognition trial shows promise in fighting retail crime

25 September 2024

Initial results from Foodstuffs’ North Island facial recognition trial are showing technology offers real opportunities in the fight against retail crime, Retail NZ says.

Retail NZ included in Ministerial Advisory Group on retail crime

18 September 2024

Retail NZ is delighted to be included in the Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime (MAG) and is committed to working with the Group for the best outcomes for retailers and their staff.

August Electronic Card Transactions

12 September 2024

Electronic card transactions show a slight increase of 0.2% when comparing August and July 2024 seasonally adjusted data.

Bill provides Gift Card certainty

12 September 2024

The Fair Trading (Gift Card Expiry) Amendment bill provides retailers with 18 months to comply with the new minimum three-year expiry date on gift cards.

Soft Retail Sales continue in August

4 September 2024

The Worldline retail spending data through core retail merchants for August 2024 shows soft retail spending with a decrease 0.5% year on year for the month.

Quarter 2 showcases challenges in Retail sector

30 August 2024

Consumer confidence has improved again in August for the second month in a row, but it is still a long way off average levels of the last decade.

Official Cash Rate cut by 0.25%, hopeful of relieving pressure for retailers

14 August 2024

Retail NZ welcomes the Reserve Banks decision to cut the Official Cash Rate by 0.25 to 5.25%, the first cut after eight consecutive no change decisions.

Retail sector continues to battle low consumer confidence

5 August 2024

Glimmers of improvements in the economy are on the horizon but the latest spending data from Worldline shows that retailers are struggling right now.

Retail and Hospitality unite in wanting changes to retail payment system

24 July 2024

Customer-facing businesses across both the retail and hospitality sectors are welcoming the Commerce Commission’s investigation into the retail payment system.

Retail sector pessimism deepens

24 July 2024

Retail NZ’s quarterly Retail Radar ‘temperature check’ shows that tough economic conditions have continued to impact retail sales and confidence through the second quarter of 2024 (April-June).

Global IT outage causing challenges for retailers

20 July 2024

A global IT outage is causing intermittent and widespread challenges, impacting banks, radio stations, airports and retailers.

Retailers relieved as inflation slows

17 July 2024

Retailers are relieved to see that inflation is slowing, Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young says.

Retailers are continuing to see declining sales

12 July 2024

Retail card spending figures for June 2024 show that the retail sector is battling through a long cold winter.

Retail NZ welcomes Government focus on retail crime

11 July 2024

Retail NZ is welcoming the new Ministerial Advisory Group for victims of retail crime and expects it to build on work already underway in the sector to tackle the explosion in retail crime.

Woolworths’ crime statistics concern Retail NZ

10 July 2024

The continuing increase in physical assaults recorded by Woolworths NZ is distressing but highlights the real dangers facing all retail workers.

Retail wages show small increase

27 June 2024

The average wage in retail has climbed just 2.8% in the last year, to $29.68 an hour, according to Retail NZ’s latest Wages Guide.

Retail crime crackdown welcome but more needed

27 June 2024

Planned changes to the criminal justice system are welcome but don’t go far enough, Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young says.

TikTok campaign aims to attract young people to retail careers

26 June 2024

An innovative social media campaign aimed at attracting young people to careers in the retail sector has launched this week. ‘7 Jobs in 7 Days’ uses real-life stories to showcase the diverse career pathways available in retail.

More police welcome but investment vital for ferries

24 June 2024

Retailers are pleased to see progress in putting more police on the beat but the grounding of the Aratere raises serious concerns about supply chains for stores across the country.

Silver linings but no quick turnaround for retail in Budget

30 May 2024

The struggling retail sector will see some silver linings from Budget announcements but little immediate prospect of a turnaround in consumer spending.

Easter trading policy lapses show need for law change

28 May 2024

Confusion over Easter Sunday trading policies, with policies lapsing in several councils, further shows the need for changes to trading restrictions.

Small retail spend increase not enough to boost sector

24 May 2024

Strong signals on controlling the cost of living, combating retail crime and improving infrastructure are on Retail NZ’s wish list for the Budget announcements.

Headwinds continue to hold back retail sector

14 May 2024

Retail card spending figures for April 2024 show that the retail sector is continuing to battle strong headwinds.

Retail sector hopes for post-Budget lift in consumer confidence

9 May 2024

Retail NZ is welcoming the prospect of tax cuts in the upcoming Budget and is hoping this will lead to a lift in consumer confidence.

Winter blues hit early for retailers

23 April 2024

Retail Radar quarterly survey shows retailers are not feeling positive about their business prospects as they head into winter.

Ongoing challenges for the retail sector

12 April 2024

Retail sales figures show further decline in the sector as Stats NZ reported a 3% decline in the month of March.

Progress towards liberalising Easter trading restrictions

11 April 2024

Parliament is set to debate liberalising Easter trading restrictions again, with a Member’s Bill being up for deliberation.

Easter holidays hampered by shop trading restrictions

26 March 2024

Families around Aotearoa New Zealand are heading away for the long Easter weekend but many will reach their destinations to find that shops are closed this Friday and Sunday.

Lift in consumer confidence good news for retailers

20 March 2024

Retailers are hoping that a lift in consumer confidence will translate to sales for the struggling sector, but we haven’t seen it yet, Retail NZ says.

Retail NZ supports effort to combat youth offending

6 March 2024

Retailers hope that Young Offender Military Academies being set up by the Government will help to combat serious youth offending against retail stores.

Retail NZ supports facial recognition trial

8 February 2024

The facial recognition trial announced today by Foodstuffs North Island will be closely watched by retailers across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Minimum wage increase a relief for retailers

1 February 2024

Retailers are relieved that the minimum wage increase has been limited to 2%, Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young says.

Retailers’ confidence grows in spite of economic challenges

31 January 2024

New Zealand retailers are feeling more confident as they head into 2024, according to the latest Retail Radar quarterly survey of Retail NZ members.

Easter Shop Trading Hours

17 January 2024

Restrictions on Easter trading must be lifted as the current law is no longer fit for purpose, Retail NZ says.

Gaza conflict freight issues

10 January 2024

The current conflict in Gaza and the Red Sea Region has resulted in the re-routing of freight ships around the Cape of Good Hope.

Retail NZ welcomes the extension of 90-day trials

21 December 2023

Retail NZ has welcomed the Government announcement to extend the 90-day trial period for all businesses.

Retail NZ welcomes Government announcement to repeal Fair Pay Agreement and extend 90-day trials

11 December 2023

“These Government decisions are a real boost for the retail sector which has been under incredible pressure in the past few years,” says Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young.

Retailers continue to experience a challenging sales environment

25 October 2023

Increasing costs and election uncertainty impacted retailers in the quarter ended 30 September 2023.

Sobering report shows escalating scale of retail crime in New Zealand

4 October 2023

Retail NZ has issued a desperate plea for Government to join forces with retailers to reduce the rapidly escalating retail crime wave after new research unveiled the annual cost to be well over $2.5 billion.

Practical steps to combat retail crime welcomed

13 July 2023

Retail NZ welcomes the actions by the Government to take practical steps to combat retail crime.

Retail NZ welcomes conversation on retail crime to be aggravating factor in sentencing

13 July 2023

Retail NZ is encouraged by the proposed policy from the Act Party to amend the Sentencing Act so that judges must take into account the fact that a serious violent offence occurred against a worker during their course of work as an aggravating factor.

Retail NZ appoints new Chief Executive

7 July 2023

Retail NZ has appointed Carolyn Young as its new Chief Executive, to succeed Greg Harford, who is stepping down from 21 July.

Trading challenges continue into winter for retailers

7 July 2023

The latest Retail Radar report from Retail NZ confirms that trading challenges are continuing for retailers.

Questions raised on LGWM project data

22 June 2023

Retail NZ is calling on the Wellington City Council, and Let’s Get Welly Moving (LGWM) to have another look at its data before progressing projects.

Retail NZ Chief Executive stepping down

3 May 2023

Retail NZ is seeking a new Chief Executive, following news that Greg Harford is leaving the organisation.

First months of the year show challenges for retailers

17 April 2023

A mixed performance in the first three months, and end of the summer peak season has produced mixed results across the retail sector.

Retail NZ unsurprised by economic downturn

16 March 2023

Retailers across the country have already been experiencing an economic downturn well before today’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures.

Retail NZ calls for wage subsidy for regions impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle

27 February 2023

A Retail NZ survey shows significant Government support is required for retailers because of the economic scars caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Retailers’ voices show impact of Minimum Wage increase

10 February 2023

A snap poll from Retail NZ shows the true impact the increase in Minimum Wage has on the retail sector.

Government goes too far with Minimum Wage increase

8 February 2023

Retail NZ is disappointed with the Government’s decision to increase the Minimum Wage.

Retail:Tech 2023 – Imagine the Future in Auckland this May

24 January 2023

Retail NZ has announced that it will be hosting Retail:Tech 2023 – Imagine the Future in May this year, focusing on the future of technology in retail and how retailers can integrate it in their businesses.

Christmas produces mixed results with prices increases outside of retailer’s control

19 January 2023

The typically busy Christmas peak has produced mixed results for retailers, with most failing to hit targets and inflationary pressure continuing, according to the latest Retail Radar report by Retail NZ.

Positive step for retail crime – but more still needs to be done

28 November 2022

Retail NZ says that the Government has taken a positive step today to address retail crime but there is a lot more that needs to happen.

New Retail NZ President and Vice President elected

25 November 2022

Liz Wheadon, the General Manager of Glengarry Wines, has been elected as the President of Retail NZ. Liz is joined by the newly elected Vice President Jules Lloyd-Jones the Chief Marketing Office for Mitre 10.

Minor improvements in retail outlook but inflationary pressures remain

9 October 2022

The latest Retail Radar report from Retail NZ shows that inflationary pressures will continue with a further 5 percent increase expected in prices in the next three months, with the influences behind price increases measured for the first time.

Retail NZ calls for Government to ditch so-called “Fair Pay Agreements bill”

6 October 2022

Retail NZ says it is disappointed that the Government is proceeding with its proposed “Fair Pay” legislation, which has been reported back to the House of Representatives from Select Committee today.

Retail NZ welcomes return to normality, asks Kiwis to Shop Nice

12 September 2022

Retail NZ has welcomed today’s decision by the Government to move New Zealand into a sense of normality by removing the vast majority of COVID-19 rules and to manage the pandemic through a revised approach.

Retail NZ welcomes practical policies for retail crime

16 August 2022

Retail NZ welcomes two policy initiatives from the ACT Party Law and Order policy document to combat retail crime – infringement notices and three strikes for burglary.

Retail NZ welcomes return of cruise ships

12 August 2022

Retail NZ has welcomed the return of cruise ships to New Zealand for the first time since COVID-19.

Inflationary pressures to continue for retailers

8 July 2022

The Quarter 2 Retail Radar report from Retail NZ shows that rising operating costs like wages and freight, staff shortages and lack of foot traffic are the key pressure points on retailers.

Retail NZ calls on MPs to vote restricted trading Bill through first reading

28 June 2022

According to Retail NZ, ACT MP Chris Baillie’s Member’s Bill on repealing Easter shopping restrictions should be voted through at first reading so we can have the debate on retailers having the choice to open or not over Easter.

Mask use dropping off a cliff – Time to review the rules

26 June 2022

Retail NZ says that mask use by customers has fallen dramatically, and it’s time that we move forward and remove mandatory mask requirements in retail.

“Fair Pay” agreements will drive price increases and not supported by retail sector or New Zealanders

22 June 2022

Retail NZ has today highlighted the key impacts of the proposed Fair Pay Agreement Bill in an appearance before Select Committee.

Retail wages continue to increase

21 June 2022

According to the 2022 Retail NZ Wages Guide the average hourly retail wage has risen 6.4 per cent to $26.65 in 2022.

Retail NZ welcomes further government support to combat retail crime

26 May 2022

Retail NZ welcomes today’s announcement of a Government funding package to support retailers in response to retail crime.

Retail NZ welcomes pre-budget law and order announcement

8 May 2022

Today’s pre-budget law and order announcement that includes support for the retail sector has been welcomed by Retail NZ.

New mask rules nonsensical – Retail NZ

13 April 2022

Retail NZ says that the new rules around mask wearing make no sense.

Costs and inflation increasing at rapid rate, whilst retailer confidence continues to slump

7 April 2022

The latest Retail NZ Retail Radar report of the retail sector shows that the widespread emergence of Omicron in the community has seen retailers miss targets, dissatisfaction with the Government’s response to COVID-19 remains steady and 90 per cent of retailers expect prices to rise by 7.5 per cent on average over the next three months.

So-called “Fair Pay agreements” will drive unfair price rises

29 March 2022

The Fair Pay Agreement Act announced today will drive up consumer costs if implemented.

Mask rules need urgent attention

23 March 2022

Retail NZ has welcomed news that vaccine passes and QR code scanning will no longer be required in cafés and close personal services like hairdressers and beauty services from but says that the Government urgently needs to act on mask rules.

Retailers require significant support to survive

16 February 2022

Sales, foot traffic and confidence has taken a dive in the retail sector, with the sector requesting urgent Government support.

Minimum Wage announcement putting jobs at risk

11 February 2022

The significant increase in the Minimum Wage has been badly received by the retail sector, with 84 per cent of retailers disapproving of the announcement, according to a snap poll of Retail NZ members.

It’s time for Wellington retailers to be supported

10 February 2022

The ongoing disruption caused by the protest in Wellington must be brought to an end quickly to support retailers and business across the city.

Retail Radar shows significant price increases on the horizon

27 January 2022

Retail NZ has today released its quarterly Retail Radar report, showing that the retail sector will increase prices, supply chain impacts and dissatisfaction with the government approach to COVID-19 continues.

Shop normal as we move to Red tonight

23 January 2022

As New Zealand moves to Red Status tonight, Retail NZ says that the retail sector has been preparing for the arrival of Omicron, but is asking Kiwis to shop normal in the coming days and weeks.

Retail sector prepares for Omicron – things Kiwis need to know

19 January 2022

Retailers across the country are taking proactive steps to prepare for the arrival of Omicron in the community and asking Kiwis to understand that services levels may change as a result.

Retail NZ calls on New Zealand to Shop Nice

18 December 2021

Shop Nice is a public awareness campaign launched by Retail NZ to support retail workers in light of increasing levels of abuse, aggression and violence from the New Zealand Public.

Businesses looking ahead to Roadmap Step 3

8 November 2021

It’s good news that the Government has confirmed most retail stores in Auckland will be allowed to open from Wednesday, and that a further review will happen next week.

Please treat retail workers with respect – Declaration on Violence & Anti-social Behaviour

8 November 2021

Retailers throughout the country have come together today at the Retail NZ Summit on Violence and Anti-social behaviour in Parliament’s Grand Hall to signify their commitment to keep their employees and contractors safe.

Relief for retailers but hard road ahead

1 November 2021

It’s good news that the Government is moving to allow retail stores in the Waikato to open from midnight tomorrow, and Auckland from next Tuesday, but there’s a hard road ahead for many retail businesses.

Let’s get stores open – Retail NZ plea to Government

31 October 2021

Retail NZ is asking the Government to move to Step 2 of the Auckland Roadmap this week, and to get stores in Auckland and the Waikato open, subject to safety measures.

Select Committee backs Retail NZ and ditches discriminatory and costly bill

28 October 2021

Retail NZ commends the Education and Workforce Select Committee report recommending that the Holidays (Parent-Teacher Interview Leave) Amendment Bill does not proceed.

Great news for retailers in Government rent relief decisions

27 October 2021

Retail NZ is welcoming the changes announced by the Government today on rent relief support measures currently before the House of Representatives.

The Green Party stands up for retailers and hospitality businesses around the country

27 October 2021

We welcome the support of the Green Party, which enables tenants and landlords to negotiate adjustments in rent due during Levels 3 and 4.

Greater clarity on vaccination good for retailers

26 October 2021

Most retailers will be pleased that the Government is providing more certainty to businesses.

Some good news for retail in COVID announcements, but firm dates needed

22 October 2021

Retail will be able to open at all stages of the new “Covid Protection Framework”. But we need a firm transition date.

Golden Mile announcement fails to consider key stakeholders

20 October 2021

Progress Wellington welcome further detailed conversation with LGWM on how the changes will impact Golden Mile businesses.

Extension of Level 3 heartbreaking for retailers

18 October 2021

Aside from financial support, a clear commitment to dates for allowing businesses to re-open is important.

Further Level 3 extension devastating for retailers

8 October 2021

The spread of Level 3 lockdowns is devastating news for Northland and Waikato retailers, and is causing huge concern for retailers around NZ.

Retail business on a knife-edge as sales and confidence plummet – Government must act

6 October 2021

The past three months have been tough, and the outlook is not much better for retailers according to Retail NZ’s latest Retail Radar report.

Good news in Govt immigration decision

30 September 2021

Retail NZ says it’s good news that the Government has moved to create a residency pathway for workers on temporary visas.

Surprises for retail & hospitality sectors in Government announcements

28 September 2021

Retail NZ and Hospitality NZ say they have concerns about the Government’s request for retail workers to get COVID-19 tests, and the Ministerial announcement about rent relief for future COVID-19 lockdowns.

Level 4 extension devastating for Auckland retailers

13 September 2021

Retail NZ says that the extension to the Level 4 lockdown in the Auckland region is devastating news for retailers and other businesses trying to survive the COVID-19 outbreak.

Hey kiwis – support your local retailers by wearing a mask

10 September 2021

Retail NZ has launched a public awareness campaign to encourage kiwis to ensure they wear a mask while in retail stores.

Parent-Teacher Interview Leave Bill discriminatory and should be ditched

1 September 2021

Appearing before Select Committee today, Retail NZ said the proposed Holidays (Parent-Teacher Interview Leave) Amendment Bill should be ditched because it would discriminate against some employees based on their family status, and impose significant costs on employers.

Inflation numbers unsurprising

16 July 2021

Retail NZ is not surprised that there has been a substantial 3.3 per cent increase in the Consumer Price Index over the past year. Evidently, retailers are expecting price rises to come over the next few months.

Price pressure looming while spending remains strong

1 July 2021

More than two-thirds of Retail NZ members are expecting prices to rise over the next quarter. This is on the back of increased costs, according to our latest Retail Radar report.

Kiwi shopping habits driven by desire to live more sustainably

29 June 2021

New research shows that 86 per cent of Kiwis are prepared to change their shopping habits, in order to be more sustainable.

Retail NZ encourages Wellingtonians’ compliance during Alert Level 2

23 June 2021

With the Government’s announcement of Wellington entering Alert Level 2, Retail NZ is encouraging compliance. And for Wellingtonians to shop local!

Retail wages continue to rise

23 June 2021

The average wage in retail has climbed 6.1 per cent nationally in the last year. It now sits at $25.05 nationally, according to Retail NZ’s latest Wages Guide.

Bad news for retailers in Let’s Get Wellington Moving decision

16 June 2021

Retail NZ says that it’s disappointing news for struggling retailers, that private vehicles will be banned from Wellington’s Golden Mile.

Retail sales remain buoyant but pressures remain

2 June 2021
Retail sales remained buoyant through May according to the latest Retail NZ Sales Index, but there continue to be real pressures on retailers.

Retail NZ welcomes decisive steps to bring Merchant Service Fees down

12 May 2021
Retail NZ has welcomed Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Hon. David Clark’s announcement today that the Government will move to regulate merchant service fees, which retailers pay when customers use credit or contactless debit cards.

“Fair pay” will add complexity, cost, and mean fewer opportunities

7 May 2021
Retail NZ says the Government’s proposed “fair pay” system will be hugely complicated, drive significant costs for business, and lead to reduced employment opportunities in the retail sector.

Inflationary pressure building despite strong March for retailers

5 April 2021
Average retail spending per site at Retail NZ members was up 29.8 per cent in March compared to last year, but the results are uneven across the sector, and inflationary pressures are building, according to Retail NZ’s latest Retail Radar report.

Council hypocrisy in Easter Sunday trading bans

4 April 2021
With more than two-thirds of councils having decided to allow Easter Sunday shopping in their districts over the past couple of years, Retail NZ is calling on councils in the main centres to follow suit.

Retailers hit by COVID lockdowns

10 March 2021
While average retail spending remained relatively strong in February, a new Retail Radar report by Retail NZ shows that the second lockdown in Auckland from 28 February has significantly impacted by the retail sector.

Retail NZ welcomes Alert Level move

5 March 2021
Retail NZ says it’s good news for the retail sector that Auckland is moving back to Alert Level 2 from Sunday morning, and the rest of the country is moving back to Level 1.

Retail NZ welcomes Government move on card fees

10 December 2020
Retail NZ says it’s great news that the Government is moving ahead with plans to regulate credit and contactless debit card fees.

Strong retail sales in November on back of Singles Day, Black Friday and Cyber-Monday

1 December 2020
The latest Retail NZ Sales Index, shows that spending through November remained strong, and that total spending since March is now ahead of last year.

10-day sick leave plan will disadvantage part-time workers

30 November 2020
Retail NZ says that the Government’s announcement that it is proceeding with a blanket increase to 10 days paid sick leave is bad news for those who work part time.

Staff should stay home while sick or awaiting COVID test results

12 November 2020
Retail NZ says it is concerned by media reports that a retail sector employee was asked to work while supposed to be in isolation.

Retail sales catching up but pre-xmas challenges remain

2 November 2020
The latest Retail NZ Sales Index reports strong spending through October, and that total spending since March is now running slightly ahead of last year.

Retail sales and confidence rebound after second lockdown lifts

2 October 2020
A new Retail NZ Retail Radar report show retailer sales have improved in through September as the second wave of COVID-19 restrictions lifted.

Retailer confidence falls in August

2 September 2020
The latest Retail NZ Retail Radar report shows that retailer confidence fell significantly on the back of the Level 3 lockdown in Auckland during August.

Retail NZ welcomes Wage Subsidy but more support required

14 August 2020
Retail NZ says it is good news that the Government is extending the Wage Subsidy across the country, but says more support is required to help businesses manage fixed costs.

Return to Level 3 lockdown bad news for retailers but no need to panic buy

11 August 2020
Retail NZ says the return of COVID-19 is bad news for a struggling sector, but is urging customers not to panic buy.

Retailer confidence improves, but real challenges for some – new report

6 August 2020
Retailer confidence remained positive in July, building on the strong rebound recorded in June after lockdown was lifted.

Retail NZ welcomes Visa and Mastercard interchange moves

3 August 2020
Retail NZ says it welcomes moves by Visa and Mastercard to reduce interchange rates, and says this should lead to lower merchant fees for contactless debit transactions.

Retailer confidence improves

7 July 2020
Retailer confidence has shown a significant improvement according to the latest Retail NZ Retail Radar report.

Please be kind to business – Retail NZ urges PM

9 June 2020
Retail NZ is calling for the Prime Minister to be kind, after reports that she is ‘angry’ that the Warehouse Group is undertaking a change process that could result in a substantial number of job losses.

Retail NZ welcomes move to Level 1

8 June 2020
Retail NZ says that the move to COVID-19 Alert Level 1 from midnight tonight is great news.

Rent relief action a good start but needs to go further

4 June 2020
Retail NZ says it is good news that the Government is moving to support arbitration on commercial tenancies, but it is disappointed the action isn’t going further.

Survival of many retailers at risk

4 June 2020
Retailers are continuing to face severe pressures as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, and there are real questions about the long-term survival of many retail businesses, according to the latest Retail NZ Retail Radar report.

Retail opens again – contact tracing not required when social distancing maintained

14 May 2020
The retail sector is open again, but businesses are not required to contact trace their customers if two metre social distancing can be maintained.

Great news for retailers and customers in Level 2 announcement

11 May 2020
Retail NZ says it is great news that retail stores and malls will be able to open again from this Thursday.

New statistics show economic carnage in retail sector at Level 3

4 May 2020
The latest Retail NZ Sales Index shows that sales during April were down 79.8 per cent on the previous year, and a survey of retailers suggests that things are no better under the Alert Level 3 restrictions.

Business and industry groups present united front on commercial leases – request support to bring landlords to the negotiating table

24 April 2020
Eight industry groups representing business have joined forces to call on the Government to urgently increase protection for commercial tenants in the face of rents that are now completely unaffordable under the COVID-19 lockdown and now pose a serious threat of causing business failures and job losses.

Plea for safe shopping at Level 3

23 April 2020
Retail NZ is asking the Government to allow safe shopping in-store when the nation moves to Alert Level 3 next week.

Good news for economy in Level 3 restrictions

16 April 2020
It is good news for the economy and for consumers that more retailing will be permitted when we move to level three, according to Retail NZ.

Retail NZ welcomes increase in contactless limit

9 April 2020
Retail NZ says it welcomes news that the limit for contactless payments has been temporarily lifted to $200 in light of the COVID-19 crisis.

Retail NZ welcomes greater clarity on essential services

24 March 2020
Retail NZ says it welcomes tonight’s announcement by Government of further information about what retail stores are considered essential.

Urgent clarity required on essential retail services

23 March 2020
Retail NZ says the Government needs to provide urgent clarity on what are “essential retail services” following today’s announcement that non-essential stores will be required to close within 48 hours.

Landlords need to work with retail tenants through crisis

23 March 2020
Retail NZ is applauding those landlords who are working with tenants to help them through the current COVID-19 crisis, but warns that landlords who aren’t prepared to review rental terms will push struggling retail businesses into insolvency.

Broad range of retailers providing essential goods

21 March 2020
Retail NZ is urging the Government to consider the broad range of retailers who provide essential goods to help Kiwis get through the disruption of the COVID-19 crisis.

Government support package a good place to start

17 March 2020
Retail NZ welcomes Finance Minister Grant Robertson’s announcement today of a support package as a good starting point, however, the support doesn’t go far enough for some retail businesses.

Retailers under COVID-19 pressure as Retail NZ welcomes Government support announcement

9 March 2020
Retail NZ says that the retail sector is under immense pressure as a result of the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak, and that it welcomes today’s announcement of a Business Continuity Package by the Government.

Retail NZ welcomes extension of fog device funding

6 March 2020
Retail NZ says it welcomes an announcement by Police Minister Stuart Nash that the Government is providing $1.9 million in additional funding to support the installation of fog devices in retail stores that are at-risk of robbery.

Coronavirus impacts spread unevenly in retail

10 February 2020
The majority of Retail NZ members report that, to date, the Coronavirus has had little immediate impact on their businesses, although some have been impacted significantly, and there are medium-term concerns about supply chains.

Challenging times continue for retailers

24 January 2020
The latest Retail NZ Retail Radar Report shows that despite the busy Black Friday, Christmas and Boxing Day sales periods, a significant number of retailers did not hit their sales targets for the quarter ended 31 December.

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