The exemption of small business from unfair dismissals has helped small business employment reach its highest level on record, according to today's St George/ACCI small business survey. The survey shows the small business employment index is 55.1, with strong jobs growth. In addition, the survey reports strong economic conditions for small business, with strong sales […]
A report released by the Sydney Chamber of Commerce has found that Sydney’s governance structures lack the authority to shape the future direction of the city. "The report reveals a stark contrast between Sydney and other global cities," Patricia Forsythe, Executive Director of the Sydney Chamber of Commerce said. The University of Sydney report was […]
With Micro Business Ownership on the rise, business owners need to make their advertising as effective as possible to ensure they stand out from the crowd. Emma Rhoades of Diva Promotions says "a good percentage of micro business owners are infact mums working from home to supplement the family income. It is important that they […]
Franchise systems have more than six months to implement reforms aimed at boosting transparency in the Franchising Code of Conduct. The Australian Financial Review reports today that the changes were first raised in 1999. The AFR has quoted Frank Zumbo from the University of NSW – a member of the now disbanded federal government-backed Franchising […]
When you reach out to potential customers, you want them to respond by buying your products or services – But in the face of all-pervasive marketing, customers are showing advanced signs of fatigue – How can you generate excitement about what you have to offer? Stuart Finlayson looks at fail-safe techniques to draw back weary customers. […]
There is nothing quite like chocolate to boost the spirits, and as Maria Cobden, discovers it is also a sound start to a successful retail business. Successfully branding something as universal as chocolate can't be an easy task but husband and wife team Lilly and Tom Haikin have managed to do that in less than […]
Just over a year ago, deregulation hit the newsagent industry, forcing many to change the way they operated. Maria Cobden takes at look at what the changes have done to the industry. The saying 'the more things change, the more they stay the same' could well be applied to the newsagency industry one year on […]
Dennis Spinks explains why video surveillance is a must for retailers. In a commercial environment of reduced margins, shifting customer loyalties and increased competition, retailers can ill-afford the financial burden of asset shrinkage from shoplifting, robbery and employee theft. And with litigation against employers on the rise, nor can retail store owners afford to be […]
In the coming months, we will take a comprehensive look at franchising. To guide businesses through the process, we talk to experts in the franchising industry – Here, in the first of our special features, we look at how to determine the right time to franchise your business. It is common for owners of successful businesses […]
It’s alright to have a vision for your store, but you won’t get very far if employees don’t share, and believe in that vision. Richard Carter gives some tips on how to make sure employees understand where the company is headed. Every year, we spend thousands of dollars trying to get employee’s motivated to improve […]
