Retail Therapy

Hosted by Australian Retailers Association

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Episodes

108

Latest episode

Mar 2025

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About the show

Welcome to Retail Therapy – the podcast that unpacks the trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of retail. Brought to you by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), Retail Therapy goes beyond the shopfront to explore the forces driving Australia’s $420 billion retail sector - our largest private employer with over 1.4 million workers. Join us as we sit down with industry leaders, experts, and change-makers to discuss everything from economic shifts and AI advancements to sustainability, customer experience, and the future of retail crime prevention. Whether you’re a retail veteran or just starting out, Retail Therapy delivers the insights you need to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

March 27, 2025Episode 921 min

Alex Staley on tackling customer aggression

Customer aggression is an issue no retailer wants to face, yet it's becoming an increasing challenge across the industry. From verbal abuse to physical threats, frontline staff are dealing with alarming incidents that impact their safety and wellbeing. Joining us on Retail Therapy is Alex Staley, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Kmart. With extensive experience in retail leadership at Officeworks, IKEA, Mitre10, and Kmart, Alex has been at the forefront of addressing customer aggression and implementing staff safety measures. This episode explores: The rise of customer aggression—what’s driving this concerning trend? The emotional toll on retail workers and how businesses can support them Practical safety measures—from Duress alarms to body cameras How small businesses can protect staff, even with limited resources The role of law enforcement and government campaigns in tackling this issue With firsthand insights from one of retail’s leading voices, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in creating safer retail environments.

March 26, 2025Episode 834 min

Tackling retail crime in the digital age with Andy White

Tune in to this insightful episode of Retail Therapy as Andy White, CEO of AusPayNet, discusses the growing challenge of online fraud and digital scams. With over 25 years of international experience, Andy dives deep into the state of retail crime in the digital realm, sharing valuable insights on how retailers, from large to small, can protect themselves from phishing, card fraud, and email compromise. Key topics covered: How Australian retailers are being targeted Practical advice to safeguard against fraud AusPayNet’s efforts in tackling phone spoofing and digital crime Future trends in online fraud Whether you're a retailer or consumer, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you navigate the digital landscape more safely. Listen now to hear Andy's expert insights.

March 25, 2025Episode 1619 min

Tackling retail crime - Helen Dickinson’s roadmap for change

Retail crime is on the rise, impacting businesses, employees, and communities—but what can be done to combat it? Joining the conversation is Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, who has been at the forefront of advocating for safer retail environments. With a deep understanding of policy, regulation, and industry challenges, Helen is working to address the growing crisis of retail crime in the UK. In this episode, Helen shares insights into: The alarming rise in retail violence and theft across the UK The financial and emotional toll on businesses and employees What’s driving the increase in retail crime Effective strategies and technologies to combat crime How retailers and authorities can collaborate for better protection The push for stronger retail protection laws in the UK Whether global collaboration is the key to tackling retail crime A must-listen for retailers, policymakers, and anyone invested in safer shopping environments.

March 24, 2025Episode 632 min

Keeping Australia moving - Dr Hermione Parsons on supply chain strategy

Supply chains keep Australia moving - but how can businesses navigate ongoing disruptions and prepare for the future? Joining us today is Dr Hermione Parsons, CEO & Managing Director of the Australian Logistics Council, an expert in end-to-end supply chain strategy, multimodal logistics, and industry-government collaboration. With over 25 years of experience, she has played a key role in shaping supply chain policy and efficiency across multiple sectors. In this episode, Dr Parsons shares insights into: The biggest supply chain challenges facing Australia today How Australia’s geography influences our logistics strategies The impact of global events on supply chains How e-commerce is reshaping supply chain management Lessons learned from the pandemic to improve supply chain resilience The role of AI and technology in optimising logistics A must-listen for retailers, logistics professionals, and business leaders looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.

March 23, 2025Episode 540 min

Beyond Blue’s impact - Georgie Harman on mental health in retail

Mental health is more important than ever - so how can businesses support their employees and create a healthier workplace? Joining us today is Georgie Harman, CEO of Beyond Blue, one of Australia’s leading voices in mental health advocacy. Under her leadership, Beyond Blue has expanded its services in suicide prevention, digital mental health support, and workplace wellbeing. In this episode, Georgie shares insights into: 🔹 The biggest mental health challenges facing Australians today 🔹 The evolving role of Beyond Blue in mental health advocacy 🔹 How financial stress is impacting workers more than COVID-19 🔹 The role of retailers in supporting employee mental health 🔹 The impact of technology and remote work on mental wellbeing 🔹 Practical advice for small businesses to prioritise mental health A must-listen for business leaders, retailers, and anyone looking to build a more supportive workplace.

March 20, 2025Episode 418 min

Tackling retail crime – insights from Crime Stoppers CEO Peter Price AM

Retail crime is on the rise, but what can be done to stop it? In this episode of the Retail Therapy Podcast, we hear from Peter Price AM, CEO of Crime Stoppers, about the latest crime trends and strategies for prevention. With decades of experience in crime prevention, including working with INTERPOL and the White House on cybersecurity, Peter shares his insights on tackling theft, fraud, and youth crime in retail. He also discusses how retailers can keep their staff and businesses safe. Key insights from the episode include: The biggest challenges in retail crime today Emerging crime trends that retailers need to watch How Crime Stoppers and the ARA are working together to combat crime Best practices for preventing theft and protecting staff What needs to be done to curb youth crime in retail Retail crime affects everyone, but knowledge is power. Tune in to gain expert advice on crime prevention strategies that work.

March 19, 2025Episode 3925 min

Ian Bailey on purpose, innovation & growth

Joining us today on Retail Therapy is Ian Bailey, Managing Director of the Kmart Group. Ian has been leading Kmart, Target, and Catch since 2018, driving innovation and growth across these iconic Australian brands. In this episode, Ian shares insights into: The evolving Australian customer – what they want and how retail is adapting Kmart’s transformation – from a traditional discount retailer to a modern, innovative brand Customer loyalty & brand trust – what keeps shoppers coming back The future of physical retail – why in-store experiences still matter eCommerce strategies – how retailers can maximise online opportunities Don’t miss this deep dive into retail leadership, transformation, and growth with one of the industry’s top executives.

March 18, 2025Episode 220 min

The power of AI - how retailers can thrive in a digital age with Dr Kellie Nuttall

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the retail landscape, but how can businesses truly harness its potential? In this episode of the Retail Therapy Podcast we speak with Dr Kellie Nuttall, Deloitte’s Strategy and Business Design Leader - and a passionate AI advocate. With a background in consumer decision-making and years of experience helping businesses embrace AI, Kellie shares insights on how AI can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. She also discusses AI’s accessibility for smaller retailers and the need for greater diversity in the sector. Key insights from the episode include: How AI is reshaping Australian retail and business strategy The biggest advancements in AI and what they mean for retailers How businesses—big and small—can leverage AI for efficiency and growth The importance of encouraging more women into AI-driven careers A glimpse into how AI will shape the future of retail over the next decade Whether you’re excited about AI or still skeptical, Kellie’s expert insights will help you understand how to embrace this game-changing technology. Tune in now for a fascinating discussion on AI’s role in retail and beyond.

March 13, 2025Episode 127 min

Navigating retail’s future with Chris Richardson

As we kick off Series 8 of the Retail Therapy Podcast, we’re diving deep into one of the most critical topics facing the retail sector today: Retail Resilience. In our first episode, host Fleur Brown, ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer, is joined by Chris Richardson, one of Australia’s leading economists, to explore how retailers can weather ongoing economic shocks and emerge stronger than ever. Retailers have faced numerous challenges in recent years, from pandemic disruptions to supply chain issues and rising retail crime. Chris provides a comprehensive look at the current economic environment and offers insights on how businesses can build resilience in such turbulent times. Key highlights from the episode include: How the Australian retail sector is adapting to economic shocks The importance of innovation and technology for future growth What economic factors will impact sales growth in 2025 How government support can drive retail recovery Chris’s expert insights will help you better understand the economic forces shaping retail and provide actionable advice on how to prepare for the future. Tune in now to the first episode of Retail Therapy Series 8 and learn how to strengthen your business for the challenges ahead.

October 25, 2024Episode 3853 min

Live from the ARA Peak Season Insights Breakfast: Trends shaping holiday 2024

In this special episode, we're bringing you the highlights from the recent ARA Peak Season Insights Breakfast, where retail’s top leaders shared their expert perspectives on this year's holiday season! Listen in as our panel of retail thought leaders shares their expertise, featuring: Laura Demasi, Head of Retail Research at Roy Morgan Craig Woolford, Senior Analyst at MST Marquee Jo Jericho, Strategy Director at Monitor Deloitte Kevin Azzopardi, Director of Partner Marketing ANZ at Afterpay Hosted by ARA CEO Paul Zahra, the discussion covered exclusive insights into retail trends, consumer behavior, and predictions for the 2024 peak season. Tune in now to get ahead of the game this holiday season.