ARA supports extended trading hours
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has welcomed the new NSW trading hours laws, coming into effect on 1 July, but acknowledged the delicate balance it may create for smaller retailers.
ARA’s executive director Richard Evans said the move to simplify trading hours for retailers is a good thing for retail business and consumers but with the extended hours comes longer days for small business owners.
“Cleaning up red tape for retail business is an important agenda for the ARA, and having open seven day a week trading options for retailers is welcomed. But with the easing of restrictions – there is also the need to acknowledge the balance required for smaller retailers in terms of attracting more trade to ensure increased profitability and the need to work longer hours,” said Evans.
He is, however, confident that any initial market concerns from smaller traders will be overcome and believes the changes will be better for retail business and consumers. As a matter of fact, Evans would like to see a nationalisation of trading hours.
“We all live in a 24/7 economy with the requirement and expectation of flexible trading hours and convenient access to products and services. In fact, we would like to see a nationalisation of trading hours. In this time of difficult trading for retailers – any move from the government to ease restrictions and remove red tape is a good thing,” said Evans.
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