I would first like to emphasise the commendable efforts of small and medium businesses throughout Australia as they strive to sustain our local economies. These enterprises play a vital role in the Australian economy, constituting over half of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). By fuelling local economies, businesses all across Australia are playing a crucial role in their sustenance.
This is why last Sunday, I joined Tricia from Nextra Toowong to encourage consumers to lend their support to small and medium businesses this Father’s Day. Nextra Toowong, led by the mother-son duo, Christine and Leigh represents a longstanding family business, with Tricia being an integral part of this family team. Much like the 2.5 million SMEs spanning across Australia, Christine and Leigh’s family business significantly contributes to the regional economic landscape. As Father’s Day approaches, I encourage you to back small retailers by selecting a thoughtful gift from one of the local businesses in your community.
Just a tight two days to go until nominations close for the National Retail Awards on 31 August. These Awards are all about giving props to our awesome local retailers and nominations are completely free. So, if you’ve got a local shop or business in mind that’s deserving, you can put their name in the ring by nominating them here.
With one week to go until the Queensland, Western Australia and South Australian Governments roll out the latest bans on single-use plastic, the National Retail Association is encouraging all retailers in the three States to prepare in advance for the September 1 deadline. Over the past year, we have engaged with more than 100,000 retailers, suppliers, peak bodies, and stakeholders all around Australia to provide resources and support. If you’re looking to find out more information, please click here and you can also sign up to attend a free information session here.
On an educational note, mark your calendars for Thursday, 9 November as NRA Legal will be holding an online masterclass aimed at staying ahead of the curve in preventing workplace sexual harassment. This masterclass is designed to cater to a broad range of operational managers, leaders and HR professionals. This online session will break down the latest shifts in workplace sexual harassment laws and arm you with hands-on strategies to protect both your employees, and your business. Secure your spot here for the online masterclass.
Wrapping things up on a distressing note, last week, the retail community was saddened by the senseless attack on a security guard in a Gold Coast Shopping Centre. We’re all pulling for a swift recovery and keeping the victim in our thoughts and prayers. As retail crime and individual aggression is on the rise, we need stronger, consistent laws, as introduced in New South Wales, and South Australia, that address assault or violence against retail staff. Check out our statement on this incident here.
Have a great week ahead.