Empowering Retail

The Christmas trading season can make or break a retailer's year, and getting deliveries right is a key part of delighting customers. In this episode, we're joined by NZ Post to discuss how retailers can prepare for peak season demand, avoid common delivery challenges, and create a smooth customer experience from checkout to doorstep. Whether you sell online, in-store, or both, these practical tips will help you get ahead of the Christmas rush. 

NZ Post website 

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of reta...

Public holidays can be one of the trickiest areas of employment law for retailers. From working out who should be paid and how much they should receive, to understanding when a day in lieu applies, the rules can be confusing. In this episode, Retail NZ's HR and Business Advisor, Yev Chityan, breaks down the key requirements and shares practical guidance to help retailers meet their obligations with confidence.

Pay-As-You-Go Advice Service

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help ma...

What happens when a weather event meets an uncertain economy?

El Niño is expected to bring hotter, drier conditions to parts of New Zealand this summer, with potential impacts on agriculture, regional economies, and household costs. But that's only part of the story. Retailers are also navigating ongoing inflation pressures, fuel costs, interest rates, and shifting consumer spending habits.

In this episode of Empowering Retail, Westpac Senior Economist Satish Ranchhod explores how El Niño could influence the economy, what the broader outlook looks like for New Zealand, and the key trends retailers should be...

Mental health is an important issue for every workplace, and in this episode we're joined by Hon Matt Doocey, Minister for Mental Health and Associate Minister of Health, to discuss the new Business Mental Health Toolkit. Minister Doocey shares why it was created, what's included, and how retailers and business owners can build confidence in supporting team members who may be struggling.

Download the Toolkit here

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As...

New citizen's arrest laws have sparked plenty of questions for retailers. In this episode, Carolyn Young talks with New Zealand Police about what the legislation means in practice – including what retailers and staff can and can't do, the policies and procedures businesses should have in place, and how to respond if a member of the public arrests someone in store. Whether you're reviewing your loss prevention processes or simply want to understand your obligations, this conversation provides practical guidance to help you navigate the changes with confidence.

NZ Police Citizen's Arrest website

Retail NZ is th...

Managing an employee with health issues can be one of the toughest challenges for retail employers. Knowing what to do early can make all the difference. In this episode, our HR partner People and Culture share practical steps to support your team, manage risk, and follow the right process before issues escalate to medical incapacity.

People and Culture website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED acce...

Discounting might drive short-term sales, but is it costing you long-term profit? In this episode John Norrie from Tranxactor unpacks why loyalty members spend more, return more often, and how smarter loyalty strategies can deliver sustainable growth without racing to the bottom on price.

Tranxactor website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus fina...

Gen Z is reshaping the retail workplace – but many employers are not sure how best to engage and motivate this next generation. In this episode, our HR partner People and Culture shares practical tips on what Gen Z really values at work, how to keep them motivated, and what retailers can do to build stronger, more connected teams.

People & Culture website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have U...

AI is evolving fast - but what’s the difference between tools that create content and those that can actually take action? In this episode, Annexa and Oracle NetSuite break down both generative AI and agentic AI in simple terms, and how retailers can use these tools to save time, automate tasks, and run smarter, more connected businesses.

Oracle NetSuite + Annexa website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll hav...

Loyalty doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode, we’re joined by Tranxactor to unpack how Kiwi retailers can deliver seamless loyalty, gift cards, and POS integrations without the overwhelm. Whether you’re a single store or scaling fast, discover simple, practical ways to build stronger customer connections.

Tranxactor website 

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you ti...

After a threatening or violent incident at work, your team’s wellbeing needs immediate attention - and the right support can make all the difference. In this episode with Retail NZ partner Workplace Support, we cover what steps to take after a critical incident, plus how to support staff compassionately when you’re delivering tough news like a store closure.

Workplace Support website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll...

Dealing with a personal grievance can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re trying to do the right thing for your team and your business. In this episode, our HR partner People & Culture shares practical advice on what to do when a complaint lands, how to follow a fair process, and how to avoid common mistakes.

People & Culture website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our A...

Running a retail business shouldn’t mean juggling multiple systems and spreadsheets. In this episode, Annexa and Oracle NetSuite share how connected technology can bring your finance, inventory, and operations into one place - giving you clearer insights, saving time, and helping you scale with confidence.

Oracle NetSuite + Annexa website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save y...

Looking after people is one of the biggest challenges – and responsibilities – in retail. In this episode of Empowering Retail, we’re joined by Retail NZ partner Workplace Support to unpack the wellbeing and mental health services Retail NZ members can access, and how the right support can make a real difference for both teams and business owners.

Workplace Support 

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to o...

In this episode, we’re joined by Marcus Hecht Henriksen from Lobyco to unpack why being dynamic, real‑time, and personal is no longer optional for retailers. Drawing on insights from The Great Retail Reckoning, we explore what true personalisation really looks like - and where retailers can realistically start without overcomplicating things.

Lobyco website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service...

In this episode, we explore how restorative justice can give retailers a voice, support recovery after retail crime, and create meaningful accountability when the harm goes beyond lost stock. A powerful conversation for any retailer navigating the aftermath of shoplifting or violent incidents.

Restorative Justice website

Want more retail industry insights? Learn more about Retail NZ membership https://bit.ly/retailnz

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business ea...

Great benefits don’t have to be complicated or costly. In this episode we are joined by Liza Cox-Hancy from Kora to explore how retailers can support staff wellbeing by sponsoring access to everyday fuel savings.

Learn more about Kora here. 

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus financial savings with ou...

In this episode of Empowering Retail, we’re joined by Marcus Hecht Henriksen from Lobyco to explore how retailers can turn everyday customer interactions into stronger, longer‑lasting relationships. We dive into the real retail challenges Lobyco helps solve, what using the platform looks like in practice, and how retailers can tell whether Lobyco is the right fit.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice S...

Running a retail business is tough enough without tax issues adding extra pressure. In this episode of Empowering Retail, Inland Revenue joins us to unpack the most common compliance pitfalls retailers face, how to manage tax debt early, and why using IRD as a cashflow solution can quickly backfire.

IRD website

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you...

Oil prices have eased, the Government is talking resilience – but the fuel story isn’t over. As global uncertainty continues, what really matters next for prices and supply in New Zealand? Simon Parham, CEO of Waitomo, joins us for this latest update.

Kora fuel card

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus financial savings...

Fuel remains front‑of‑mind for Kiwi businesses as global tensions continue to disrupt energy markets. In this follow‑up sector update, Liza Cox-Hancy, CEO of Kora, joins Retail NZ to unpack what the ongoing conflict in the Middle East means for fuel supply, pricing, and planning here in Aotearoa.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plu...

Power costs are one of the biggest expenses for business—and many are paying more than they need to. In this episode, we speak with Reliance Utilities about what is happening in the power sector and how they help businesses find better energy deals, audit bills, and remove the hassle from managing power. If you want practical ways to reduce costs and protect your margins, this is a conversation worth listening to.

Reliance Utilities

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is hear...

With global tensions pushing fuel back into the headlines, we’re joined by Simon Parham from Waitomo to unpack what the Iran, US and Israel conflict means for fuel supply and prices here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus financial savings with our partners. Start your journey with Retail NZ today...

What happens to vapes after they’re used – and what role can retailers play in reducing waste? In this episode, we chat with Brett Ormsby from Vapo about VapeCycle, New Zealand’s first full vape recycling programme, and how simple actions in your store can make a real environmental difference.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time a...

Retailers are under pressure to hire quickly, without compromising on fit. So how do you cut through the noise? In this episode, we’re joined by Oneflick to talk about the hiring challenges retailers are facing, why video and AI are changing the game, and how Retail NZ members can access a special offer.

Oneflick 

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our...

In this episode, we’re joined by Matt Tierney from NZ Police, who shares new developments - including faster response times and strengthened support for retailers. We discuss practical best‑practice tips to help minimise crime and keep your team safe in store. We also explore the rising use of nangs - what they are, why their presence is increasing, and the risks retailers should be aware of.

www.police.govt.nz

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help m...

Medical incapacity is one of the most challenging and sensitive issues retailers face. 

In this episode, we are joined by Nikita Govind from Ford Sumner Lawyers to unpack what medical incapacity means for employers. We explore the legal obligations, how ACC fits into the picture, and when - if ever - termination may be appropriate. 

It also provides clear and practical guidance for retailers to navigate complex employment situations with confidence and care.

Ford Sumner Lawyers Medical Incapacity Article

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here...

Discover how eInvoicing is reshaping the way Kiwi businesses get paid, by replacing PDFs and emails with a secure, direct exchange of invoice data between financial systems. Alan Carnaby from MBIE joins us to discuss what eInvoicing is and how retailers can benefit from adopting this new payment method.

Find out more at www.einvoicing.govt.nz

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our...

Workplace injuries don’t just impact individuals - they affect productivity, morale, and business performance. Provention’s First Move programme is changing the game by focusing on movement habits and physical intelligence to keep workers safe. 

Today, Alison Richmond from Provention will dive into how this innovative approach works, why it’s different from traditional training, and the real-world results it’s delivering.

Provention

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member...

Retailers are under pressure - rising theft, safety concerns, and the need to protect staff and customers. In this episode, we spotlight a game-changing solution: Auror’s Subject Recognition tool with CEO and Co-founder Phil Thomson.

Auror.co

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus financial savings with our partners. Start your journey with R...

Retail runs on more than just the shop floor - it’s powered by the people behind the scenes. In this episode, Pippa Saxon from ServiceIQ spotlights the critical role of the distribution centre and explores how structured training can turn operational roles into long-term careers.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and money, plus financial savings with o...

Retail isn’t simply a stepping stone - it can be a thriving career. In this episode, Pippa Saxon from ServiceIQ shares how retailers can shift mindsets, build training pathways and unlock leadership potential from within. Whether you're a store manager or head office leader, discover how investing in staff development pays off.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you ti...

Facing a restructure? Retailers are under pressure to adapt to rising costs and shifting consumer habits. 

In this 30-minute session, Jordan Todd and Eloise Sharpe from Ford Sumner Lawyers unpack the legal essentials of workplace change. 

Learn how to manage restructures and redundancies lawfully - and avoid costly missteps.

PowerPoint Presentation Slides

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice...

What’s ahead for retail in Aotearoa?
We’re joined by Satish Ranchhod from Westpac to unpack the latest economic forecast and what it means for retailers.
From interest rates and inflation to wage growth and consumer demand - this episode dives into the key trends shaping the months ahead.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and...

Discover the untapped advantage of disability inclusion in New Zealand’s retail sector. 

In this episode, Phil Turner, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Disability Employers’ Network (NZDEN) outlines how inclusive hiring is transforming teams, boosting performance, and connecting retailers with a powerful talent pool. 

Hear how to build lasting connections with disabled and neurodivergent talent.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Adv...

If you're a retailer wondering how to truly connect with your customers — or you're curious about how AI can transform your business — this episode is for you. 

We’re joined by Lance O'Grady, co-founder and solution architect at Pocket Square, to unpack what meaningful personalisation really looks like in retail, and the technology needed to make it happen. 

From practical insights to future-focused strategies, Lance shares how retailers of all sizes can harness AI to deliver smarter, more relevant customer experiences. 

It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evo...

Retail crime is evolving - and so is the response. Matt Tierney from NZ Police joins us to share key wins, current trends, and practical advice for retailers.

Hear how Police are working with businesses to strengthen prevention and safety. Essential listening for retailers heading into the busy season.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED access to our Advice Service, resources to save you time and...

Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association, is a leading voice in Australasia’s print, packaging, and visual communications industry. Kellie brings a wealth of experience in helping businesses harness the power of visual media to drive visibility, customer engagement, and sales. 

We’ll explore how retailers can strategically use print, signage, and visual media to stand out in a crowded market, create memorable brand experiences, and deliver measurable results. 

Whether you're a small business owner or a retail executive, this conversation will offer practical insights and inspiration to elevate your visual strategy.

Reta...

Retailers of all sizes are rethinking security — and AI is leading the way. In this episode, Neil Whittaker from HiveWatch joins us to explore how affordable Surveillance-as-a-Service is helping even small retail operators improve safety, streamline operations, and stay ahead of evolving threats. Learn how to avoid common security mistakes, hear real-world examples of incident prevention, and get expert tips on protecting staff and customers — without disrupting the shopping experience.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a busine...

Hiring is just the beginning. In this episode, Dan Brunt, Regional Commissioner Auckland Central/East from Ministry of Social Development joins us to share how Work Brokers support retail owners with workforce development, training, and subsidies that make growing your team smarter and more affordable. If you're ready to overcome recruitment challenges and build a stronger workforce, this one's for you.

Retail NZ is the peak body for New Zealand retailers. We’re here to make sure the voice of retailers is heard and help make running a business easier. As a member, you’ll have UNLIMITED acce...