Retail NZ Calls On Bold Action From Next Government

by · SCOOP

Retailers need bold and decisive action from the next government to rekindle retail confidence and propel the economy forward, says Retail NZ Chief Executive, Carolyn Young.

Retail NZ, the peak body representing retailers in Aotearoa, has today released its 2026 Election Manifesto, which has seven key asks of the next government:

  1. Be bold! Invest in infrastructure that connects consumers with retailers and create enjoyable and accessible town centres that people want to spend time in
  2. Level the playing field so all businesses play by the same rules
  3. Reduce the cost of doing business by tackling high energy prices and card fees
  4. Update the tax thresholds so employers and retail workers get to keep more of their income
  5. Keep the focus on retail crime to ensure progress continues and store safety remains a priority
  6. Seize the opportunity to get young people into work, giving them crucial work skills and money in their pocket
  7. Drive progress on critical recycling schemes and define trans-Tasman packaging, recycling and labelling rules

Carolyn Young says there are a wide range of factors impacting retailers right now. While not all of these issues can be covered in Retail NZ's manifesto, this document sets out the clear priorities required from our country’s leaders to ensure the retail sector can survive – and thrive – in 2027 and beyond.

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“There are more than 29,000 retail businesses in Aotearoa New Zealand, which collectively generate billions of dollars in economic activity and employ more than 222,000 Kiwis, or 9%, of the workforce. Retail is a critical part of how we live and work and when it is succeeding, so is our country,” Ms Young says.

“But retailers, like the people they serve, have been doing it tough in recent years. Lowering the cost of doing business and tackling the cost of living should be central to the next government’s plans, along with revitalising our town and city centres.”

From investing in core infrastructure, to reducing energy costs and card fees, to getting more young people into work, Retail NZ says the next government needs to take deliberate steps that will benefit retailers – and their shoppers – well into the future.

“We urge the next government to rise to the challenge and breathe new life into our local economy. We hope our manifesto will contribute positively to the conversation about where New Zealand’s priorities should lie to secure a positive future for retail, and the country as a whole,” Ms Young says.

Retail NZ will also be preparing briefings to incoming Ministers (BIMs) following the election, to ensure we can continue to advocate on behalf of retailers.

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