Despite a number of external challenges, business confidence in Australia remains strong, demonstrating the resilience of the retail sector.

Retail sales increased 3.8% in January 2025 versus January 2024, outpacing inflation. Growth in retail is driven by population expansion and the shift toward online marketplaces. Global giants like Amazon, Shein, and Temu are reshaping the retail industry, with a combined disruption worth $9 billion.

Although consumer demand for sustainable and locally made products remains, these platforms are thriving in the current economic climate.

While these economic pressures and global e-commerce marketplaces pose a threat to Australian retailers, all is not lost. Emerging technology and changes to consumer expectations present opportunities for retailers to reclaim their place in consumers’ minds and wallets.

Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the Mumbrella Retail Marketing Summit, where Australia’s leading brands and experts discussed the key issues impacting the industry.

I’ve summarised these into five key takeaways for Australian retailers.

Offering new and untapped revenue streams, retail media has been the buzz word in the industry for some time and it........

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