These are items that require a little bit more detail than given in our
“Latest News” posts.
Both Myer & David Jones are spending much time
and money to get their online offerings competitive but experts are saying
three things need their attention.
1.Firstly, they need to add “experience” information
to their product offering. A good example of this is QVM’s recipe and cooking
information that goes with their food promotion.
2.Secondly they have plenty of ground to catch up
with overseas online retailers getting a head start.
3. They still have to get shipping right. Free
shipping and free returns for unwanted items is still a big plus for many
online retailers.
Australia’s International Standing Drops
Australia has
slipped to 15th in a list of best countries to do business in and
the high dollar is the main reason; although a skills shortage and a large
number of industries going through negative structural changes are also
relevant.
Industries like
tourism and trade are particularly vulnerable to dollar changes. In addition,
the two speed economy is impacting on consumer confidence and in turn the
overall business climate.
Targets Answer to Retail Recovery
Target’s new
Managing Director has announced plans to strip out middlemen, create direct
sourcing with factories, and establish central distribution points throughout
Asia. Commentators applaud the new direction while pointing out that retailers
like Zara have been doing the same thing for years.
Retail Growth Outlook Slows to Zero
A sombre Executive
Director of the Australian Retailers Association has announced that retail
growth is likely to slow to zero following the slight fall in April sales,
seasonally adjusted. The largest contributor to the fall was household goods
and the state with the largest fall was Victoria.
David Jones Says Consumer Caution to Stay
David Jones Chief
Executive Paul Zahra says consumers remain gloomy despite the steadying of the
Eurozone debt problem. He says that consumers are not reacting to the
international shocks in the same way as in the past. Their reluctance to spend
has become the new norm and is unlikely to change.
