News
Why most retail AI projects are falling short and how Australian retailers can turn them around
9+ hour, 26+ min ago (598+ words) For most Australian retailers, AI'remains'an early-stage investment rather than a primary driver of transformation. Global peers are moving faster. Local boards are under pressure to show results. Yet behind the announcements and pilot programs, a more uncomfortable story is unfolding....
Australian Made launches curated home installation with James Treble
8+ hour, 40+ min ago (321+ words) Australian Made Campaign has partnered with interior designer and stylist James Treble to launch a curated home showcase ahead of Australian Made Week 2026, which runs from May 18 to 24. The activation, dubbed the "Australian Made House, features Australian Made-certified products from…...
Suppliers adding "temporary" surcharges? Five questions to ask before you pay
2+ day, 3+ hour ago (507+ words) Supplier surcharge'notifications are rolling in.'Some are reasoned. Some are reflexive. And almost none deserve a blanket nod-through to the shelf.' After two years in which freight rates were softening into early 2026, the Strait of Hormuz crisis that began on…...
Retailers welcome Budget measures but warn outlook remains challenging
3+ day, 13+ hour ago (473+ words) The ARC has welcomed several measures in the 2026 Federal Budget aimed at supporting retailers and small businesses....
Retailers back Coalition's proposed $50, 000 permanent asset write-off
3+ day, 13+ hour ago (254+ words) The Australian Retail Council (ARC) has welcomed the Coalition's proposed permanent $50, 000 instant asset write-off, saying the measure would support small retailers looking to invest amid ongoing economic pressures. The industry body said the proposal would provide greater certainty for businesses…...
Xero research finds small business owners overlooking achievements
7+ mon, 2+ week ago (22+ words) Only 51 per cent of Australian small business owners report they had reached a business milestone this year, according to Xero's research....
Xero launches AI-powered analytics capabilities for small businesses
3+ mon, 4+ week ago (16+ words) Xero has announced the global launch of new AI-powered analytics capabilities designed for small businesses....
Xero launches AI workflow builder for small businesses and accountants
3+ day, 13+ hour ago (215+ words) Xero has launched Xero Force, a natural language AI agent builder designed to help small businesses and accountants automate financial workflows without coding. Xero Force allows users to create custom AI agents using prompts to automate tasks across Xero and…...
Chemist Warehouse goes all in on NRL Magic Round activation
3+ day, 13+ hour ago (299+ words) Chemist Warehouse is returning to Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium for NRL Magic Round from May 14 to 17, 2026, with a major fan activation program delivered in partnership with Av'ne. The pharmacy retailer will join all 16 NRL clubs and tens of thousands of fans…...
Retailers back permanent $20, 000 instant asset write-off
6+ day, 11+ hour ago (302+ words) The Australian Retail Council (ARC) has welcomed the federal government's decision to make the $20, 000 instant asset write-off permanent, saying the move help provides certainty for small businesses and retailers planning future investments. The industry body said the measure would support…...