The federal government is to commence an inquiry into the performance off retail. The Productivity Commission inquiry will present opportunities for newsagents, and other retailers, to be heard on the state of retail. While a focus will be on the impact of online transactions from overseas which avoid GST, there will be opportunities for newsagents to present on the state of retail in our channel. Check out this from the press release yesterday:
The Commission will examine the current structure, performance and efficiency of the retail sector and the drivers of structural change in the industry, including globalisation, increasing household and business access to the digital economy, changing cost structures, employment issues and the exchange rate.
The Commission will also consider the broader issues posed by an increase in online purchasing by Australian consumers and the role online purchasing plays in providing consumers with greater choice, access and convenience. The sustainability and appropriateness of the current indirect tax arrangements in this environment will also be considered.
Newsagents ought to seize the opportunity to participate in this inquiry.