35% of Australian small retailers introduce new products for festive shoppers

Australian small retailers are focusing on innovation this festive season, with 35% introducing new products and services to attract shoppers, according to the latest Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and American Express Small Retail Index.

The report also said that 44% are anticipating sales to rise compared to last year, whilst 31% predict flat sales.

With 57% of surveyed retailers expecting customers to focus on sales and discounts, 28% are planning additional promotions to cater to demand. Notably, nearly three-quarters (73%) of small businesses are experimenting with new strategies this year, while 27% are maintaining their traditional approaches.

Sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are also gaining traction, with 26% of small retailers participating. Amongst these, 84% are returning participants, while 26% are joining for the first time.

Looking ahead, 54% aim to achieve better work-life balance in the new year. Optimism about future trading conditions remains moderate, with 41% expressing some level of confidence about 2025, whilst 31% report feeling neutral.

Retail Asia