The Retailers Association has announced it will undergo an extensive rebranding process to emerge as the United Retail Federation, in an attempt to extend its reach within the industry and further engage with suppliers.
National executive director Scott Driscoll confirmed the industry body will continue to support its members and the sector.
"For too long, other organisations claiming to represent the needs of the sector have really been more focused on representing the internal interests of their organisation," Driscoll said in a statement.
"As a result, we have seen our sector weakened and divided via that internal negativity."
The new integrated approach will draw retailers closer with suppliers, which include Australian farmers, manufacturers, transport drivers, importers and retail sector employees, among other industry personnel.
Driscoll says this will help foster domestic rural industry growth as well as establishing closer ties between retailers and suppliers.
Driscoll also confirmed the consolidated approach will see retailers working with transport operators to petition governments on matters such as the cost of freight movements, as well as uniting employees with business owners in an aim to foster positive workplace outcomes without involving trade unions.