Australian Retail Council open for business

The Australian Retail Council has launched a new website and logo following the successful merger of two organisations into a single peak body.

The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) have merged to form the Australian Retail Council, led by inaugural CEO Chris Rodwell.

“ARC brings together the collective strength and expertise of two respected institutions into a single, powerful voice that represents every retailer"
Chris Rodwell, Australian Retail Council

A transitional board, comprising members of the former ARA Council and the NRA Board, is now in place and will serve until elections for a new board are held later this year. Rodwell said the organisation is focused on addressing the key concerns of retailers.

“ARC brings together the collective strength and expertise of two respected institutions into a single, powerful voice that represents every retailer – from family-owned businesses to iconic national brands,” he said.

“Retail contributes $444 billion to the economy and is our largest private sector employer, with a workforce of 1.4 million people.” 

He added: “At ARC, we’re backing the retailers that back Australia – whether that’s reducing retail crime, driving economic reform, creating jobs and careers, supporting small businesses, lifting efforts to address climate change and sustainability, supporting regional communities or adopting technology.”  

The Australian Retail Council will offer support and services to local businesses, and the amalgamation includes a combined membership base.