What this means for you is that the ARA will review all of its operations and reengineer its services to ensure you have the opportunity to use leading consultants and advisors in all facets of retailing to help your business grow and prosper.
If it is employee relations we will provide you with Australia’s leading service and advice; if it’s tenancy and property issues we will help you find, negotiate and mediate; if it’s education and training for your key staff or inducting new staff we can assist. We will also be negotiating reduced rates on essential business services as well as merchandising products and services such as signs, security, media advice, and shop fittings. Our goal is to support you to make your role as a retailer easier.
During 2008 we will roll out these new services, new products and new attitudes focused on providing you the opportunities to develop your business.
As with any member organisation (particularly with the ARA which has a long and successful history) renewal is vital to ensure the challenges of the modern market are met. What was appropriate in the 1990s may not be relevant in the modern market. If one reflects on the changes to mobile technology and other new communication technologies, it’s easy so see how differently business functions today compared to even fifteen years ago.
Therefore the ARA has to change with the market and provide a service to its members which is cutting edge, and we shall be working to ensure we offer you this level of service. To achieve this, we will be at the forefront of research into modern retailing while at the same time providing you with the standard services to help your business comply with the various legislative requirements.
The bottom line here though is this – have confidence that your ARA can provide the advice you need in 2008. Rather than search for a consultant, adviser or counsellor feel confident we can give you the advice you need on any aspect of your business and indeed any other matter that may be troubling you. These new services will be rolled out from April and will allow you to tap into a rich resource which will enable you to reduce some of the stress and cost of running your business.
Your ARA also plays an important role in the development of the market to ensure it is sustainable and provides your business with on-going opportunity. The market can at times be volatile and susceptible to influences such as government policy, public comment or the media. Your ARA will continue to provide leadership and maintain a continuing vigil on all matters pertaining to retail.
Your voice needs to remain strong and heard and we will be developing a strategy this year to reinforce the retail message.
Repositioning the ARA as an organisation will involve an increase in communication to our members; a redevelopment of our web site; rebranding; increased activity in the market and the application of resources to ensure our members prosper.
This year’s development will not be easy but it is essential for the retail market to ensure its long term sustainability within Australia. We are committed to ensuring retail is given the prominence it deserves as it is sometimes ignored by politicians as a significant contributor it is to the economy. The ARA will be working hard this year to help you grow and prosper and we look forward to that association with you.
