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FebruaryFebruary EditionEdition 11 20132013

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February 2013 - Edition 1 Contents MGA National Support Office In this issue... Suite 5, 1 Milton Parade, CEO Welcome 1 Malvern, Victoria, 3144 P: 03 9824 4111 • F: 03 9824 4022 Industry News & Representation E: [email protected] MGA/LRA Industry Networking Breakfast and AGM 2 W: www.mga.asn.au New laws for NSW Small Business Commissioner 5 Freecall: 1800 888 479 Oversized supermarkets destroy competition 6 Independent grocers fight to change Queensland liquor licensing laws and regulations around packaged liquor 7 Retailer Directors Fair Competition Coalition 8 Rodney Allen (President) – Victoria New MGA Board Member 10 Andrew Bray – New South Wales ACCC Launches Consumer Guidance on Country of Michael Daly – Victoria Origin Guidance Material 11 Gino Divitini – Western Australia A need for ‘special’ foods 11 Grant Hinchcliff– Tasmania Steve Miller – Victoria Workplace Relations Chris dos Santos – South Australia Sunday Penalty rates - Review by the Fair Work Commission 12 Debbie Smith – Queensland Industrial Relations in an election year 13 Legislative changes that lie ahead 13 Independent Director Give me a break! 14 Jill Dixon Trading hours - uniformity a way off yet 15 Facebook is watching you 16 Something Permanent for casuals 16 Chief Executive Officer 2013 Workplace Relations Seminars 17 Jos de Bruin 03 9824 4111 Training News and Courses CMS Snippets 18 Happy 2013 - Considering Training? 19 Corporate Partnership & Something different 20 Media Sales 2013 Training Dates 22 Steve Sellars ACT - Food Safety Supervisors required from August 2013 26 0407 399 240 Around Australia [email protected] South Australia 03 9824 4111 South Australian grocers push to sell local wine 28

New South Wales Editorial and Production Jamberoo Locals and IGA Staff Throw Their Support Behind [email protected] Fredericks IGA Jamberoo Following Fire 30 Bi-Lo Elermore Vale Converts to Ritchies SUPA IGA 31 IGA Walgett Transforms to Deliver a Fresh New Look and Feel for Shoppers 32 New IGA Supermarket Arrives in Turramurra 32 Queensland SPAR Australia Launches New ‘Jardin Fresh Life’ Store in Rothwell 33 Independent Liquor Outlets Victoria IGA Heathcote Comes to the Rescue of the Firefighters During the Bushfire Crisis 34

www.mga.asn.au February 2013 - Edition 1 CEO Welcome 1 CEO Welcome

Welcome to the first edition value for money, product and shopper choice and show of our refreshed magazine strong support for local brands and the local community. for 2013. By now you will Make 2013 your year of spoiling your customers – ask have hopefully experienced them what they want and then deliver! They will come a very successful and heavy back because they know you care and are looking for an Christmas trading period excuse not to shop with the chains! and had a break to relax and catch your breath before Recently MGA/LRA has had some great news concern- getting ready for an ing discussions with governments in South Australia and early Easter! Queensland in regard to independent supermarkets ranging and selling packaged liquor. Contained within this Members from around magazine there is more detail in regard to this news. Now Australia report a solid the work begins by all concerned parties to break the Christmas trading period, posting like for like sales com- stranglehold on packaged liquor retailing in these States pared with last year or slight growth. Margins continue that Coles and Woolworths dominate. to be squeezed as competition increases and costs to do business rise. On the one hand, I announce with regret that Joseph Ro- meo from South Australia has stepped down from his role A recent survey of members indicated there were two key as MGA Director but on the other hand, I wish to warmly issues that they were concerned about going into the 2013 welcome to the Board, newly elected MGA Director, Chris calendar trading year – dos Santos also from South Australia. Chris brings to the • Declining sales – competition and the discretionary board much experience in retail and more particularly consumer government processes and relationships. MGA’s Board sin- cerely thanks Joseph for his wonderful contribution to the • Diminishing margin – increased costs to do business independent supermarket industry as a MGA Director and • Sky rocketing electricity costs wishes him well in growing the Romeo Retail Group. • Increasing refrigeration (gas) costs Finally, 2013 will be the year that MGA/LRA goes out to • Increased cost of labour resource all members with a range of seminars to be held around Australia. Energy Efficiency Information Programs will be a MGA will be doing everything it can, as an organisation priority initiative that we hope all independent supermar- representing its members, to address many of the issues kets around Australia will fully avail themselves to. Much and concerns that members face on a daily basis. However, research has been conducted through a dedicated MGA MGA/LRA cannot do it alone as it must have the help of Energy Efficiency Steering Committee to deliver to mem- members and industry stakeholders to lobby governments bers exactly the information and solutions they will require and local members of parliament to make change happen. to reduce energy usage and energy costs. There will also One such example is the market dominance of Coles and be a series of workplace relations seminars addressing Woolworths. Members must assist MGA/LRA to keep this key workplace employment issues faced by members on a campaign alive and aggressive to get the attention of the daily basis. politicians for changes to be made for the better. Please sign the two petitions on our website – We hope you enjoy this edition of Independent Retailer. www.haltgrocerygiantsonslaught.org.au – and please ask Until the next edition of this magazine. your family, friends and staff to get involved as well. Good trading. As many of our members hear everyday, to be relevant to our customers we must aggressively leverage our strengths Jos de Bruin as independents. CEO Master Grocers Australia To attract customers to your store, you must have a cus- tomer value proposition and a point of difference. Why do customers come to your store? You must be prepared to provide your customers with an excellent shopping experi- ence – that is excellent convenience and customer service,

www.mga.asn.au 2 Industry News & Representation Industry News & Representation

MGA/LRA Industry Networking Breakfast and AGM

Left to right: Jos de Bruin, Bruce Billson, Nigel Ridgeway On November 22, MGA/LRA held its annual industry net- society today, including the preservation of true robust working breakfast and AGM at Leonda Receptions on the competition between the chains and the independent Yarra. Once again this event was a sellout with 150 guests sector. Bruce spoke with passion and a real concern for including grocery and liquor members, corporate mem- the survival of small, independently owned businesses in bers, industry stakeholders and industry suppliers in at- Australia. Many businesses are suffering under the duress tendance. MGA’s Board of Directors from around Australia of high costs to do business, red tape and other burdens and the LRA committee were also in full attendance. that prevent business owners from getting on with their businesses and making a profit. Changes must be made to MC’d by MGA Queensland Director, Debbie Smith, this reverse this phenomenon. event as always had a powerful line up of guests and speakers including; special guest and key note speaker Hon Nigel Ridgway, ACCC General Manager, gave the audi- Bruce Billson MP (Shadow Minister for Small Business and ence an update on the many issues the ACCC is currently Competition), special guest, Nigel Ridgeway, (ACCC Group handling including fuel prices, petrol shopper dockets, the General Manager Compliance, Research, Outreach and market dominance of the chains and supplier relation- Product Safety Group) and Dylan Eades (ANZ Bank Econo- ships. Owing to many investigations currently taking place mist) who delivered a most informative Financial in regard to the market power and dominance of Coles Market update. and Woolworths, Nigel was unable to elaborate or give any indication in regard to what the investigations were about The theme of this Breakfast was “Let’s Have Fair Competi- or what the likely outcomes may be. The fact that the tion” which is in keeping with the launch of MGA’s com- ACCC is making these investigations is in itself a comforting petition report in August. MGA gave an update of all the outcome for the independent supermarket and activities associated with lobbying politicians in regard to liquor industry. the market dominance of the chains. Meetings were ar- ranged with 45 Federal Ministers, Shadow Ministers and The eagerly awaited ANZ economic update was delivered politicians. 200 Federal Politicians received the report. A by ANZ economist Dylan Eades. Dylan covered all the social media campaign was launched involving facebook economic key performance indicators as well as world and and website activities including the signing of two petitions Australian finance and investment trends. The future eco- to involve retailers, staff and their customers to voice their nomic outlook for Australia is “cautious optimism”. concerns and appeal to the Government for fairer compe- All in all this industry breakfast and AGM was again a huge tition. Over a 12 month period MGA/LRA received 13,384 success giving all people who attended an indication of the contacts from members taking up 7,289 hours. MGA’s ongoing work that MGA/LRA does on behalf of members, workplace relations team received 5,243 contacts and as well as, absorb the insights of a prominent politician, in spent 3,461 hours supporting members from Bruce Billson, a senior ACCC Executive in Nigel Ridgeway around Australia. and ANZ economist, Dylan Eades. Keynote speaker Bruce Billson spoke about the need for MGA’s AGM was successfully conducted directly after the competition law reform. A root and branch review of the completion of the Industry networking breakfast. Competition and Consumer Act to reflect the needs of our

February 2013 - Edition 1 Industry News & Representation 3

Our board members on the steps at the Leonda

Left to right: Phil Ibbotson, Company Secretary, Andrew Bray, Chris dos Santos, Gino Divitini, Mick Daly, Rod Allan, Grant Hinchcliffe, Debbie Smith, Steve Miller, Jill Dixon, Jos de Bruin

MGA Queensland Director, ACCC Executive, Nigel Ridgeway Debbie Smith

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New laws for NSW Small Business Commissioner The objectives of the Commissioner outlined in the legislation include: On November 21, 2012 • Dealing with small business in a neutral and NSW Minister for Small independent manner. Business Katrina Hodgkin- son MP, introduced legisla- • Providing a central point of contact for small tion to establish the State’s businesses. first Small Business Com- • Facilitating low cost mediation and alternative dispute missioner as a statutory resolution services. officer, giving a greater level • Facilitating and encouraging the fair treatment of small of power to represent the business. interests of small businesses. • Identifying measures to reduce the administrative burden for small businesses. The inaugural NSW Small Business commissioner is The functions of the Commissioner outlined in the Yasmin King - NSW Business Yasmin King. legislation include: Commissioner “The Small Business Com- • Investigating complaints from small business relating to missioner Bill 2012, will enable the Small Business Com- unfair treatment or where there is a public interest. missioner to be an independent advocate for small busi- • Making representations or taking action on behalf of nesses,” Ms Hodgkinson said. small businesses. The Bill confers the necessary legislative powers and re- • Facilitating the development of codes of practice by sponsibilities so that the Small Business Commissioner can industry. effectively carry out the specified objectives and functions of the office. • Advising the Minister on matters affecting small business.

GOT A THIRST?

© 2013 The Coca-Cola Company. ‘Coca-Cola Zero’, ‘Just Add Zero’ and the Grip&Go bottle are trade marks of The Coca-Cola Company.

www.mga.asn.au 6 Industry News & Representation Industry News & Representation

Oversized supermarkets destroy competition Mr. de Bruin went on to say that “Coles and Woolies are all about controlling ‘supermarket floor space.’ MGA/LRA released its report into the power of the du- MGA suggests that Competition Law should be amended opoly in the Australian supermarket industry in August to include a floor space dominance test which would this year. In an effort to halt “creeping acquisitions” and prevent oversized supermarket developments and encour- the dominance of the chains, the ACCC has tried to per- age robust competition. suade the two big supermarket giants to provide details of Some local communities have been flooded with super- any new store proposals. However, Woolworths has now markets that are too big and not economically justifiable or refused to sign a voluntary notification code and, although necessary in smaller communities. Independent supermar- its closest rival Coles has agreed to a six months trial pe- kets that were once sustainable because they were aligned riod, it seems that Coles does not intend to open any new to the size of the community become unprofitable, strug- supermarkets in the immediate future. gle to survive and closures are inevitable. Jos de Bruin, CEO of MGA said that, “Any hopes we had of “The smaller independent supermarket is forced out a sensible voluntary arrangement being put in place where of business and this is a pattern that is being the chains would work with the ACCC on their expansion constantly repeated.” plans have been dashed. The ACCC might be taking some positive steps to address the issue but there needs to be Therefore, MGA believes the only way to give the Compe- a greater focus on exactly what the chains are planning. tition Laws teeth is to deem any acquisitions resulting in So far, neither Woolies nor Coles have had any hesitation control of a third or more of the supermarket floor space about opening new stores within 100 metres of an existing in a market, is substantially lessening competition. This supermarket and it remains common practice to buy shop- would end the vagueness of the law and give the ACCC ping centres that house independent supermarkets and something they can action. then not renew their leases.”

HAVE YOU SIGNED THE TWO PETITIONS? Sign both petitions online NOW!

LET’S HAVE FAIR COMPETITION IN GROCERY & LIQUOR

Requests Federal Government to: Requests State Planning Ministers to: Strengthen competition laws, foster fair & robust Develop and agree consistent planning and floor competition and disallow Woolworths & Coles space guidelines for sustainable communities, from further increasing their market power. thus encouraging strong competition.

To protect choice & fair competition, simply visit www.haltgrocerygiantsonslaught.org.au/petitions

February 2013 - Edition 1 Industry News & Representation 7

Independent grocers fight to change Queensland dinner ingredients on their way home from work, just like liquor licensing laws and regulations around they can in other states. Her comments come as the MGA prepares to lobby state packaged liquor Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie to ensure an Expert Panel examining licensing laws also looks at regulations sur- For many years Queens- rounding packaged liquor. land independent super- The move has received a mixed reaction, with the Cham- market operators have ber of Commerce and Industry Queensland raising the been dismayed with the potential for any relaxing of packaged alcohol regulations Queensland State Govern- to have a negative impact on hotels and bottle shops. ments’ position to disallow independent supermarket The sale of packaged liquor is not currently part of the operators from obtaining a state’s liquor licensing review but Mr Bleijie said he did not packaged liquor licence to object to the expert panel considering it if they wished. compete with hotels who “All Queenslanders can submit to the expert panel and the have a licence to operate discussion paper, which will be released shortly,” he said. not only their hotel with a retail shop or drive through Ms Smith, however, said the MGA believed relaxing the MGA director Debbie Smith. Picture: on the premises but also laws would boost competition. “It’s the most anti-competi- Cathy Finch. Source: The Courier-Mail the ability to own three ad- tive law in Australia today,” Ms Smith said of the ditional bottle shops within a 5 km radius of that hotel. current laws. In recent years, owing to this antiquated regulation, Coles She said the requirement to own a hotel ruled independ- and Woolworths have purchased the “cream” of hotels ent grocers out of selling alcohol, as most did not have the across all of Queensland. They have leased out the hotels capital to make such an investment in order to allow them and then taken full advantage of “the rules” by opening to then establish bottle shops. “Nobody knows what they up three detached retail bottle licences within 5 kms of want for dinner at 4pm, so they are looking for a whole each hotel. These outlets trade under such names as Dan meal solution and that whole meal solution for most Aus- Murphy, BWS, Liquorland and 1st Choice. As in other states tralians is to have a glass of wine at dinner or a bottle of of Australia, these two giants have considerable market beer and we can’t offer that.” power and dominate the packaged liquor retail sector Naturally there will be opposition from such organisations in Queensland. as Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and the National Over the years, MGA/LRA has had numerous meetings Retailers Association who represent the larger retailers. with Queensland government representatives to discuss But Ms Smith said the situation in Queensland created amending the Queensland Liquor Act to allow independ- confusion among visitors from other states and countries. ent supermarket operators to obtain a packaged liquor “South Australia and Queensland are the states that have licence, not only to provide competition for the major licensing impediments. chains but to support the prosperity of Queensland family “Anyone who comes from Europe or any other state owned businesses! of Australia walks around my shop . . . and they’ll say: Below is an extract from a newspaper article published in ‘Where’s your liquor department?’ They just don’t under- the Brisbane Courier Mail newspaper on December 21, stand it at all.” 2012 by journalist Sarah Vogler which discusses the oppor- Coles and Woolworths declined to comment but Aldi’s tunity for this debate to be brought to life again! Queensland managing director, Viktor Jakupec, said his QUEENSLANDERS would be able to pick up company believed it was time to change packaged liquor laws. bread, the newspaper and a pack of beer at the corner store if independent grocers get MGA has written to the Attorney General, The Honorable Mr. Jarrod Bleijie MP to request joining the Expert Panel their way. that has been established to reduce red tape in the liquor Representatives of the sector are calling for alcohol to be and gaming industry in Queensland. sold at corner stores across the state as they step up their Source: Sarah Vogler, journalist, The Courier Mail December 21, 2012. fight for changes to the state’s liquor licensing laws. FoodWorks supermarket owner and Master Grocers Aus- tralia director Debbie Smith said that customers wanted the luxury of picking up a bottle of wine alongside their

www.mga.asn.au 8 Industry News & Representation Industry News & Representation

Fair Competition Coalition turers that have served them well for more than 70 years. Coles first demanded its suppliers charge only 3 percent as Since MGA’s ‘Let’s Have Fair Competition!’ report was a profit on top of costs. Woolworths has followed, with its launched in August 2012, there has been considerable latest edict to suppliers: “reduce your costs to us by 10 per interest from a number of small business and employer cent or risk losing shelf space”. organisations around Australia, who are concerned about Many suppliers, with fixed prices for repayment of assets the future of retailing and fair competition in Australia. etc, face economic hardship or ruin. Many simply cannot At the inaugural meeting of concerned industry associa- afford to lay off large numbers of employees, having built tions, led by the VACC and MGA, the discussion centred business up based on contracts entered into in good faith on the future of competition and competition policy in with Coles and Woolworths”. this country. It was agreed that the situation facing small The answer around the table was; yes; small business and independent business owners was in need of urgent owners faced with the situation as described by Jeff attention and it would be appropriate to establish a new Kennett, are intimidated and financially threatened by the lobby group to be known as the Fair Competition Coalition. strength of the market power of bigger business suppliers, A summary of discussions is set out below. big business competitors, landlords and even big business franchisors. Is our social and economic fabric torn by monopoly, du- The power of the internet is also a threat, with global- opoly and unfair market practices? sized retailers capable of swamping markets i.e. Amazon The Australian economic and social fabric includes the overpowering small booksellers. (Try a Google search for substantial contributions of over one million small business any popular book and see where it leads … Amazon, Book owners which employ five million people and compete in Depository and other global businesses, most sourced what is becoming, for many, an unfair market. from overseas). It was agreed that the trends are looking dangerous and It was agreed that fair competition is both a predictions are grim. social and economic issue. The social impacts • Where will small businesses be in five or 10 years? of unfair competition have the potential to • Will it be, that two big retailers dominate and own a change the complexion of our society to the combined market share of over 80% of grocery and detriment of small business owners who related retailing markets? make up a large and important part of our • If the forecasters and futurists are correct, Australian social and economic structure. retailing will be totally captured by just a few big play-

ers and many small businesses will not survive. What can be done if you do care about small business • Fewer and bigger players are predicted to take over and fair competition? markets from smaller family owned enterprises. Small business is the backbone of the economy and even • Publically listed companies are buying up market share more importantly the owners contribute much needed di- in industries that have until recently been the domain versity and essential entrepreneurship. It is important that of family owned businesses, often passed on to the Australians revere innovation in small business, encourage next generation. competition and support growth in small businesses. • The ACCC is now concerned with some acquisitions in Treating fair competition as a social issue, it might be best local markets i.e. Woolworths buying out a small hard- that Australians think of themselves more as citizens rather ware business in Ballarat. than consumers and shareholders. Buying at the lowest Was the former Premier of Victoria, Jeff Kennett right price from the biggest brand name player may not be in when he said: the best interests of the citizen, community, fair competi- tion or the economy in the long run. “Coles and Woolworths have about 80% of Australia’s supermarket business - the second strongest effective Retaining small businesses and fair competition is particu- monopoly in the world behind New Zealand. Both chains larly important in small towns and regional centres where are ripping up relationships with suppliers and manufac- the loss of a small business will cause a reduction in the

February 2013 - Edition 1 Industry News & Representation 9

range of goods and services available and ability of the town to survive. Some towns and suburbs never recover from a retailing attack locally or in a nearby regional centre. LET’S HAVE FAIR This impact is well described in the ‘Let’s Have Fair Competition!’ report prepared by Master Grocers Australia. Download at www.mga.asn.au COMPETITION!

Fair Competition Coalition All store owners, their staff and families are Small Business Associations, led by VACC and MGA, will urgently requested to SIGN ON to support MGA’s be invited to join the Fair Competition Coalition, a move- report to Government on the need for Action ment with the aim of encouraging fair competition, rather to address the unchecked, anti-competitive than accepting that the retailing of all goods and services advantage being exerted by Woolworths in Australia be forever undertaken in an environment of and Coles. unfair competition. MGA has set up a “Petition Website” where we The Fair Competition Coalition aims to challenge the ask you to help build a solid base of supporters for notion, “that nothing can be done to fight against unfair change to show the Government we need stronger competition”. The following objective is recommended: powers for the ACCC and improved planning regu- The Fair Competition Coalition’s clear aim is lations. Every signature makes a difference. Ask to enhance fair competition and assist small your family and friends to lend a hand and show their support for your business, employment and business to compete by the introduction of the protection of diversity and choice in food and strategies that prevent market domination, liquor shopping - which all Australian’s deserve! monopoly, duopoly and unfair market prac- There will never be a better opportunity and tices in the Australian market. an easier way to help yourself and your fellow Australians in farming, manufacturing and retail Can the ACCC help? employment - and to support fair play for all. Is the ACCC powerless to halt the market power surge of Your fellow INDEPENDENT SUPERMARKET RETAIL- big business? In the past, ACCC authorisations of super- ER and President of Master Grocers Australia, market Shopper Docket style discounts were important hurdles, but now the authorisation is irrelevant because the two major Supermarkets have internalised the dis- We need count scheme and “own the game”. Shell and Caltex sites Rod Allan are now co-branded and run by supermarket companies. 15 signatures The opportunities to cross subsidise the petrol discounting per store ! is obvious. LOG ON AND ADD YOUR NAME, It was agreed that further discussions occur with ACCC EMAIL AND POSTCODE NOW: Chairman Rod Sims regarding all Fair Competition matters. Can Fair Competition for small business owners become an www.haltgrocerygiantsonslaught.org.au election issue in 2013? It was agreed that Fair Competition should be promoted as a Federal Election issue and that a sustained campaign would be necessary to build support for change and commitment from a new Government (no matter how formed). “It should be the role of Government policy to facilitate that process by eliminating bar- riers to entry, lowering transaction costs and minimising monopoly profits by large firms” Mr Jere W. Glover US Chief Counsel for Advocacy, Small Business Administra- Your privacy is secure! For further information - refer to www.mga.asn.au. tion – USA.

www.mga.asn.au 10 Industry News & Representation Industry News & Representation

New MGA Board Member Retail business grow to two supermarkets, trading under both the Foodland and IGA Brands. Chris dos Santos – The dos Santos family mantra and determination to pro- South Australia vide the best value for money for their customers, has led to an in store commitment to customers of, ‘Market Fresh On behalf of MGA’s Board Market Value’. of Directors, we warmly welcome newly elected Chris brings to MGA’s Board, 21 years of state government South Australian MGA Di- experience, spanning across a myriad of functions includ- rector, Chris dos Santos. ing finance and procurement. Chris has replaced former Chris has had many lead roles in Government depart- South Australian MGA Di- mental reform and system implementations. He was also rector, Joseph Romeo, from responsible for state-wide procurement services and the the Romeo Retail Group. development of crucial policies and procedures. Chris’s family is no stranger Chris dos Santos is committed to representing and assist- to retailing, particularly the independent supermarket ing the Australian, and of course, the South Australian sector in South Australia. Santos Retail was established in independent grocery sector, to sustainably grow its sales, 1988. Together, the dos Santos family has always been pas- profitability and market share in a very competitive and at sionate about superbly fresh produce, excellent customer times regulatory burdened trading environment. service and providing great shopping value for customers. Welcome to Chris to MGA’s Board of Directors! The combination of all of these values has seen the Santos JA233 JA233 Jalna Greek IR Mag HPage Ad Dec FAv1.pdf 1 7/11/12 12:10 PM

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February 2013 - Edition 1 Industry News & Representation 11

ACCC Launches Consumer Guidance on Country A need for ‘special’ foods of Origin Guidance Material There is evidence that al- The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission lergies and intolerances to (ACCC) has launched new guidance material to provide various foods are becom- consumers with clear advice about country of origin label- ing more widespread. This ling and olive oil quality claims made on labels, packaging means more shoppers are and in advertising. looking for ‘special’ (non- allergenic, etc) foods and Some consumers will pay a premium for an Australian varieties, just when the two product or a guarantee of quality, but consumers need to main supermarket chains have a clear understanding of the claims made and where are narrowing the choices the products have been made and grown. available on their shelves The ACCC does not believe there is an essential problem But just how many shop- with the current classifications, but rather with consumers pers are looking for such not understanding what they mean. The problem arises ‘special’ foods? when people are only looking for a ‘Made in Australia’ Recent national research label and what they actually want is a product fully from shows that 35 percent of grocery shoppers are buying for Australian sources. A ‘Made in Australia’ product can be someone with a food allergy or intolerance. The most com- made from some overseas ingredients, and therefore con- monly avoided foods were dairy products (milk, cream, sumers should be looking for a ‘Product of Australia’ label. cheese, yoghurt, etc) at 13%, followed by foods with ad- The new guidance material will help consumers under- ditives (MSG, colourings, preservatives, sulphites etc) at stand the various origin claims of ‘Made in Australia’, 11%, gluten 8%, seafood 5%, peanuts and other nuts 4% ‘Product of Australia’ and ‘Grown in Australia’. For more and eggs 3%. information check the ACCC guide: Where does your food Only half the shoppers considered their main supermarket come from? coped very well or quite well with their specific needs, The ACCC has also launched a buying guide for consumers, 26% had to resort to another supermarket, food store or which provides information about the different grades of market, and 18% to a health food store. olive oil products and storage tips. Romano DelBeato, DBY Research The ACCC’s advice follows enforcement action earlier this January 16, 2013 year. In May, the Big Olive Company paid two infringement notices totalling $13,200 for labelling products as ‘extra vir- gin olive oil’ that the ACCC considered were not. For more information, check the ACCC guide: The Good Oil.

LET’S HAVE FAIR

Make COMPETITION sure you sign!

Print out our FREE A4 poster from our website and put it in your staff room to encourage staff support. And remember Print our out we need 15 signatures per store so ask FREE petition friends and family to get involved as well. reminder poster!

www.mga.asn.au 12 Workplace Relations Workplace Relations

Sunday Penalty rates – Review by the Fair Work Sundays, the SDA continues to negotiate agreements with a 50 percent Sunday penalty rate when negotiating with Commission larger stores. This stance is clearly contradictory. MGA witnesses gave evidence to show that the current The first stage of hearings for Award Modernisation has Sunday penalty and public holiday arrangements continue now been completed with Fair Work Australia (now the to have a serious and detrimental effect on the working Fair Work Commission) adjourning to consider the evi- hours of small business owners and their families. dence. Early indications suggest that the Commission will delay MGA has argued that the high Sunday penalty rates and any changes to the current award for another two years additional gazetted public holidays have made it increas- when the review process begins again. The Commission ingly difficult for independent retailers to maintain produc- has indicated that this would allow for a better under- tive businesses. The Commission will also consider wheth- standing as to the effects of the modern award since its er there is sufficient evidence to support the notion that introduction. Nevertheless, MGA is hopeful that the Com- the Sunday penalty has caused a reduction in employment mission will recognise the ramifications of any such delay opportunities and business profitability. and proceed with reducing penalty rates and address the The Fair Work Commission must also decide on the evi- concerns surrounding gazetted public holidays. dence regarding the negative impacts on employees for Stage 2 of the modern award review has now begun with working on weeknights, Sundays and public holidays and MGA requesting the inclusion of a salaries clause into the what consideration should be given to the notion that award. MGA has also made an application which would large numbers of employees volunteer to work on week- allow part time employees hours to fluctuate with a maxi- ends as it best suits their lifestyle. mum increase of four hours without employers having to MGA has also highlighted that although the SDA has main- pay overtime. tained throughout the hearings that 100 percent loading is MGA will inform all members once the Fair Work Commis- the only sufficient remuneration for employees working on sion makes a decision in this matter.

Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review 2012-13

The Fair Work Commission has invited interested parties to make submissions in regard to possible wage increases in 2013. We antici- We need your help! pate minimum wage levels will increase on July 1, 2013. The extent of the increase is of great concern to MGA members and the strength of our submission rests heavily on member input. A survey for members to fill out – FWC 2012- 13 Annual Wage Review Survey: Effect on your Business – is available online at www.mga.asn.au The survey will contain a series of simple questions regarding the structure of your business, the effect of the 2012 wage increase, and consequences of a further increase on the performance of your business. We urge your participation and would value your contribution.

February 2013 - Edition 1 Workplace Relations 13

Industrial Relations in an election year have argued strongly against a reduction to a 50 percent penalty rate on Sundays in the Award, but the Union sup- ports only a 50 percent loading on Sundays in numerous 2013 promises to be a year of challenge on the industrial enterprise agreements. This seems a strange anomaly and relations front. As 2012 came to a close, we were left it needs to be reconciled, and revisited, in the event that wondering about penalty rates, the future of payment on FWA finds in the Union’s favour. public holidays, and right up to the closure for Christmas The ACTU has already flagged that it will be seeking secu- we were still wondering about the part-day public holiday rity of employment for casual employees by seeking that situation in South Australia. The Queensland Government casuals be able to seek permanent employment, if they had already dropped the bombshell that it might pull out want it, after a specified period of time. The latest item of the federal system, leaving thousands of small retailers on the ACTU wish list is that casuals should have access to wondering how they might be structuring wages in the portable paid leave schemes giving access to annual, sick new year. and family leave. Added to all this hype we have a federal election this year In March 2013 we will once again see a review of wages by and industrial relations has already been flagged as a “hot Fair Work Australia. We will be asking MGA members to topic” for debate. A return to the tough “WorkChoices participate in our wage survey. We hope that members will system” is highly unlikely if a Liberal Government was to be contribute to our wages survey as we will be providing Fair elected and there are unlikely to be significant changes to Work Australia with a report on our views in regard to any the Fair Work Act if the current Government is re-elected. wage increases in 2013. At this stage we do not have a clear indication from either side politics as to what is in store but no doubt industrial We are also approaching the fourth year of the phasing in relations will be a subject to watch as the year proceeds. process of award wage rates in July, this one final adjust- ment in 2014. By next year we will have uniform wage Currently, the main question on everyone’s lips is: Will Fair rates for the General Retail Industry Award, making it a Work Australia reduce the Sunday penalty to 50 percent? A truly national modern award across Australia. decision is expected to be handed down soon by Fair Work Australia , and this will provide direction to many retailers We will watch the political interests in the industrial rela- who are debating whether to make a new agreement or tions scene as the year unfolds and we will continue to adopt the General Retail Industry Award. The Commission keep you informed of any changes throughout the year. has already commented on the fact that while the unions

Legislative changes that lie ahead employee’s account and the date the super contribution was made. Unfair Dismissal Applications Like any new year, there are a number of new laws ahead and this is an opportunity to give a brief rundown of what From January 1, 2013, the Fair Commission has new is in store for 2013. powers relating to unfair dismissal applications, including dismissing applications in certain circumstances. The Com- Employee Eligibility for Superannuation mission can also make an order for costs where a party has We need your help! As of July 1, 2013, there is no upper age limit for super unreasonably caused the other party to incur costs. contributions, meaning members will need to make super Timeframes to Lodge Unfair Dismissal & General guarantee payments for eligible employees aged 70 years Protections Complaints or older. Members should check their employee records to see if this applies. The time limit for lodging an unfair dismissal claim has been extended from 14 to 21 days from the date the dis- Super Guarantee Rate missal takes effect. As of July 1, 2013, the compulsory super guarantee rate The time limit for lodging a general protections claim (the rate) will increase from 9% to 9.25%. Increases will based on dismissal has been reduced from 60 to 21 days. occur gradually over the next seven years until the rate becomes 12%. Members must update their payroll and ac- Dad & Partner Pay counting systems to incorporate the increase to the rate. Working dads and partners (including same-sex partners) Payslip Recording Obligations could be entitled to Dad and Partner Pay for children born or adopted on or after January 1, 2013. This is up to two From July 1, 2013, members will be required to report on weeks’ pay at the National Minimum Wage. The payments payslips the amount of super contributions paid into the are made directly by the Government.

www.mga.asn.au 14 Workplace Relations Workplace Relations

Give me a break! Breaks cannot be taken within one hour of starting or finishing a shift. Members need to be aware however, that break require- There is some confusion ments can be varied by agreement. The employee must be about when to give employ- better off overall as a result of the change. ees rest breaks and meal breaks. For example, Jane works a six hour shift, but wants to fin- ish early by not taking her 30 minute meal break, because The GRA provides that rest she wants to pick up her child from school. Jane and her breaks are paid and last for employer can enter into an agreement allowing her to fin- 10 minutes, whereas meal ish her shift early. breaks are unpaid, except for shift workers. The agreement must be in writing, and if the change is requested by the employee, we recommend the employee If an employee works less than four hours, s/he is not en- gives a request in writing for the change. titled to any breaks. If an employee works more than four but less than five hours, s/he must have one 10 minute It is important that members keep a copy of the agree- rest break. ment for their records. A meal break of between 30 and 60 minutes must be If you are not covered by the GRA, be sure to check provided – in addition to one 10 minute rest break – to your Agreement. employees working more than five hours but less than For more information, call MGA’s Workplace seven hours. Relations Team. Image courtesy of Michal Marcol / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

February 2013 - Edition 1 Workplace Relations 15

Trading hours - uniformity a way off yet controlled by the Queensland Industrial Relations Com- mission, and although there has been some movement towards deregulation of trading hours in some areas, the Trading hours in Australia are regulated by State and Terri- laws surrounding trading hours vary across the state and tory laws that determine when shops will open and close. on public holidays. Trading hours have been relaxed over the last few decades, There does not appear to be any great rush to provide for with some states and territories being more expansionist a uniform system of deregulated trading hours, and it is a than others. Yet even in states or territories that have been weak argument to suggest that just because one state or more “liberalised”, with the exception of the ACT, there are territory has deregulation, then liberalisation of trading still some restrictions that retailers need to be mindful of hours should automatically apply across the board. Each at certain times of the year. state has its own valid reasons for its current laws, just as Some states are close to complete or further deregulation countries in Europe – though often smaller, albeit with of trading hours and some are a long way off in some ar- larger populations – feel justified in choosing to retain the eas. A number of factors have influenced the restriction on trading restrictions that suit them. extended trading hours in Australia including the need to Do our stores need extended hours to cater for tourists? protect small businesses, the wish by some groups to keep Sunday as a religious day, and the possible impact of unre- Tourism in Australia is currently down, except for visitors stricted trading hours on an employee’s leisure and family from China and why would they want to shop when they time. Conversely, there are those who strongly argue that can buy the same goods in their own country at a frac- consumer demand is a high priority, that many other coun- tion of the price? Would extended trading hours create tries have relaxed their trading hours’ restrictions, and that more jobs? Not necessarily - if a customer goes into a large some employees actually want to work on weekends. department store in Melbourne on Sunday morning the customer would be lucky to find a shop assistant to take The Australian Productivity Commission in 2011 (“Eco- their money. Retailing is in the doldrums for many big nomic structure and performance of the Australian Retail stores, so if they can’t employ more staff now it is highly Industry” Productivity Commission Draft Report July 2011) unlikely they will be able to do so in the immediate future. favoured full deregulation of trading hours, saying that Also in big supermarkets and some variety stores there are there would be “increased consumer welfare benefits…, machines to take the customers cash so there is no need reduced discrimination between retailers, a less artificially to employ people. Does the fact that consumers camped distorted retail sector and potentially lower retail prices outside retail stores when they opened on Boxing Day for and higher retail employment.” Despite these claims by the first time in South Australia in 2012, or that Pitt Street the Productivity Commission Report, there has not been Sydney was thronged with people and there were frenzied any major push in any of the states or territories to make masses in Bourke Street Mall on the December 26, so as any further significant changes to their respective trading to grab the first bargains, justify deregulation of trading hours’ laws. hours? The same picture could be painted on any trading Australia is not alone insofar as restricted trading hours are day when the sales begin, so how can we use such an argu- concerned. In the United States, there has been a general ment to justify a change to trading hours at other times? move to deregulate trading hours, particularly on Sunday. There are many other factors that need to be considered However, in some countries in Europe there has been a before total deregulation can be justified, not the least be- move towards trading hours deregulation but the ing the need to protect the thousands of small businesses restrictions on Sunday trading in many countries still that continue to struggle against the powerful duopoly. remain significant. Despite the cries for deregulation from larger retailers it Where do the trading hours stand currently in Australia? is questionable whether the industry can justify extended hours. Also there are small businesses that still rely heav- The Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory ily on having a trading hours’ “edge” at certain times of (except partially on Anzac Day) do not have any the day; there are also those employees who want their trading restrictions. weekends free; and consumers are certainly not being Victoria, Tasmania and NSW have no restrictions Monday denied the opportunity to “shop till they drop” as there is to Sunday but have some individual public holiday restric- still plenty of opportunity for that to occur. tions depending on shop size. Uniformity of extended trading hours throughout Australia Western Australia and South Australia have slightly liber- is, hopefully, a way off yet. alised their restrictions in the past year, but trading hours still remain tightly controlled by Government. Queensland is the only State that has its trading hours

www.mga.asn.au 16 Workplace Relations

Facebook is Watching You Something permanent for casuals

Use of social networking websites such as Facebook is widespread, but the dangers that come are significant. The ACTU is urging the Government to guarantee penalty rates as a minimum entitlement, and create a portable Policies about the responsible use of social networking paid leave scheme (the scheme) for casual employees and websites are becoming regular in workplaces, but employ- independent contractors. ees are still being irresponsible. The push comes after a 2011 study revealed that 40 per Common issues arising include bullying and harassment cent of workers across all fields in Australia are now paid amongst employees, and negative comments about the casual rates or are independent contractors. employer. ACTU secretary Dave Oliver said unions would be prepared Once a problem arises, it is important that it is addressed to consider a cut in casual loadings in exchange for giving immediately to avoid any further consequences. casual employees access to paid sick, annual and family Members should also be aware that although Facebook, leave under the scheme. Twitter and other such websites, are a handy means to Casual employees are entitled to a casual loading so as catch out employees who are absent without a legitimate to compensate them for entitlements which they do not excuse, they should not act on the spur of the moment. receive such as paid personal and annual leave. It is best practice for members to investigate the issue and The change, if effected, would give casual workers more allow the employee a right of reply before issuing a warn- protection in job security. ing or considering termination. As it stands, casual workers are employed on an ‘as need’ MGA has a Social Networking Policy and members should basis and are not entitled to termination notice. call Workplace Relations for a copy or seek advice. On a side note, members should be aware that casual employees under the GRA are not entitled to overtime payments for work performed outside ordinary hours.

February 2013 - Edition 1 Workplace Relations 17

Workplace Relations Seminars 2013

“KNOW YOUR AWARD” AND “MAKING AN “DEALING WITH SECURITY ISSUES ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT TO SUIT YOUR BUSINESS” IN YOUR STORE”

Learn about the award and also about agreement making Learn how to deal with losses in your store correctly. All in the one seminar. topics are covered including managing customer and staff theft, the duty of care to you and the duty of care to your Are you aware of the flexibility clauses in your award? Do employees, aggression and violence from customers, deal- you know when rest breaks are due? Do you understand ing with armed hold-ups and bomb threats. your spread of hours and the overtime clauses? These and

many other aspects of the award and its relationship to Learn how to deal with internal errors and supply mis- the National Employment Standards are vitally important - takes. This seminar covers a range of information to help so here is the opportunity to learn exactly how the you avoid heavy financial losses to your business. award operates. ALSO - Consider would an agreement be suitable for State or Territory Time Date your business. Consider your options - Why not make an agreement before the “phasing in” of the award rates is Malvern, Victoria 10 am - 1pm 9th May 2013 completed. We can assist you to make a decision on what Dubbo, NSW 2.30 pm - 5.30 pm 14th May 3013 is best for you. Launceston, Tasmania 1pm - 3.30 pm 21st May 2013 State or Territory Time Date Brisbane, Queensland 10 am - 1pm 29th May 2013 Malvern, Victoria 10 am - 1pm 5th March 2013 Perth, Western Australia 1am - 4 pm 6th June 2013 Dubbo, NSW 2.30 pm - 5.30 pm 13th March 3013 ACT 10 am - 1pm 12th June 2013 Launceston, Tasmania 1pm - 3.30 pm 21st March 2013 Adelaide, South Australia 10 am - 1pm 18th June 2013 Brisbane, Queensland 10 am - 1pm 10th April 2013

Perth, Western Australia 1am - 4 pm 23rd April 2013 Dates are subject to change and are dependent on num- ACT 10 am - 1pm 30th April 2013 ber of attendees. Details of locations and venues will be made available on our website. Adelaide, South Australia 10 am - 1pm 2nd May 2013 COST: $77 (including GST) for members and includes a Albury, NSW 2.30 pm - 5.30 pm 7th May 2013 detailed information booklet.

Dates are subject to change and are dependent on number of attendees. Details of locations and venues will be made available on our website. COST: $77 (including GST) for members and includes detailed information booklets.

www.mga.asn.au 18 Training News & Courses Training News & Courses

CMS Snippets December was an extremely busy time for us, with many trainees being able to complete their courses before Christmas as well as many RSA and Food Safety courses to be finalised. Amongst those who completed are: Terang Supa IGA Co-op Karen, Janine and Paul have all finished their Cert IV’s and Amanda is well on the way. We hope that they will be able online to help and encourage the next group of trainees coming online through the business and they may continue their train- ing at an even higher level. John is doing a fantastic job in the staff training and Health & Safety area using the CMS Another year has passed and it certainly has been a busy system. and challenging year. Along the journey in 2012 it has been Warren Supa IGA plus Liquor great to see so many participants completing their Certifi- cate IV in Retail Management. We hope all of our trainees Special congratulations go to Jessica Waterford from War- have either had a well-deserved break, or for those in ren, as through her determination, and the support that tourist areas, we expect that you haveonline been so busy that she received from Bernadine and Kevin, she was able to you may have had no time to spend on your training. By complete the course in speedy time. Through undertaking the time you receiveSAFETY this magazine things should be get- the course Jessica has implemented many policies and pro- Responsible ting back to normal with the return to school and work for cedures that will in the long run benefit the store in their online most of us and we hope to see everyone being once again goal of reaching total compliance. The course promotes Service of a better understanding of occupational health and safety Alcohol able to focus on their training courses. H ealthonline &Safety

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IS_MGA_Feb_2013.indd 1 15/01/2013 2:28:57 PM February 2013 - Edition 1 Training News & Courses 19

within the business along with skills which can assist you township. I had the pleasure of meeting with Lynne and in being more effective in leading a team and achieving the Mark who are the owners of the IGA X-Press in September common objectives of the business. 2011 and was delighted to commence a Certificate III in Retail with Kelly Rawat and Diane Sheedy. I can now hap- LaManna Direct pily say CONGRATULATIONS to you both for a fantastic ef- Sonia Morgani is setting a great example with her training fort in the completion of your course. Both Kelly and Diane at this remarkable store. Although she has not yet com- have made a tremendous effort with the course and they pleted her course she has shown a lot of enthusiasm, is are really a true asset to the store. achieving good results and she assures us that she is keen Koo Wee Rup IGA plus Liquor to take in as much information as we can provide for her. Congratulations to Hannah Blackwell at Koo Wee Rup IGA LaManna is a third generation family owned businesses on the completion of the Cert III in Retail Program. Han- and has one of the largest fresh fruit and vegetable depart- nah worked hard to have the course completed by the end ments in the Southern Hemisphere as well as gourmet of- of 2012 much to the delight of owners Alf and Sue. The ferings in their Deli, Meat and Poultry, Grocery and Liquor store has a battle on their hands as a huge Woolworths departments. They also boast the best Café I have seen in store opened last year almost directly across the road from a supermarket with two pastry chefs baking fresh cakes them and with a population in the catchment area of only and pastries every day and providing breakfasts, lunches around 3,000 we are hoping that the locals will continue to and everything in between. I know some regular custom- support the IGA store that has supported them for many ers who would not miss their daily coffee ‘fix’ from there. years. Great customer service and a personalised approach Well done Sonia, keep up the good work. will go a long way towards that, and we are sure that Poowong IGA XPress Hannah and Evelyn have gained knowledge in this area through their course. Poowong is a small dairy town located in Victoria’s south Gippsland area with a population of less than 600 peo- ple. The township was developed around 1874 to service the surrounding farmland. Nestled in the main street of Poowong is a fantastic IGA X-Press store that services the

Happy 2013 – Considering Training? The Victorian Training Guarantee (VTG) is available for Victorian businesses who wish to improve the skill levels of their employees in the way of training and develop- With the madness of Christmas trading over and business ment which should provide a range of benefits including settling down, it’s probably not a bad time to think about productivity for business as well as acquiring a more self- Staff training. motivated and flexible workforce. Certificate II, III in Retail and Cert IV in Retail Management. This funding is available The MGA training program is competitively priced and Victoria wide. “Supermarket Specific” providing your staff with the neces- sary skills that are pertinent to the business. Our courses MGA also has an offer that may appeal to any member also simplify the whole training experience for the student, interested in our Compliance Management System (CMS). learning competencies in an environment that they are We are offering a traineeship coupled with the purchase already familiar with. of the CMS program, meaning we are offering the CMS program at a heavily discounted price. This offer is also We have two streams of Government funding available at available for stores renewing their CMS licences. With the present as well as the Government incentive payment that Government completion incentive available, this will more may attract a $3000 payment on the completion of than cover the cost of the CMS program or the renewal. each course. If you are interested in training your staff and are keen to National Workforce Development Fund (NWDF) funding is encourage them on the road to personal growth through available with the vision of assisting individual businesses training, this truly is a great opportunity. to increase their workforce capacity by providing employ- ers and workers with the opportunity to enhance their skill Any queries? I can be contacted on: 0400 226 511 levels through formal training. Certificate II, III in Retail and Chrissy Groat Certificate IV in Retail Management. This funding is avail- able Australia wide.

www.mga.asn.au 20 Training News & Courses

Something different!

We have come to expect businesses to run a certain way. Staff are paid wages, execs are paid bonuses and share- holders are paid dividends – that’s how it works, right? Are Basket Stands a basket case? Well not for one very progressive British company who is There is nothing quite as frustra� ng for a shopper than to turning all that on its head and achieving great things as enter a supermarket to shop for one or two preselected items a result. and then  nd that the products selected aren`t as easily managed as thought. A basket would be most welcome! The John Lewis is a company with a difference. According to its problem is that the baskets are at the front of the store, whilst careers website, “The John Lewis Partnership is unique. It’s the shopper is not, and typically the shopper`s in a hurry! So like no other place you have worked before, or will ever what happens? Some of the product goes back on the shelf, work again. Just one of the reasons for this is that we put and o� en in the incorrect loca� on too! the happiness of our people – our Partners – at the heart As a minimum, MOBILE Basket stands should be of everything we do. Join us and we’ll ensure your job is placed at both the front and rear of the store. They deal with not only fulfilling and rewarding but suited to the way you this issue – done and dusted. work best as an individual. Another occasion - same shopper, diff erent day: One or two preselected items are on the shoppers mind but the We’re also different because our Partners are active shopper is impulse buy orientated and passes by a special or co-owners in the business, which means they share in two that are extremely appealing. A basket would be most the profits and have a real say in determining its future. welcome! The problem is that they are at the front of the What’s more, we take genuine pride in treating each other store, whilst the shopper is at the back, and in a hurry! So with respect and honesty – an ethos that is reflected in the what happens? The shopper hesitates, and …No purchase! outstanding level of service we deliver to our customers, As a minimum, MOBILE Basket stands should be placed at both the front and rear of the store. They deal with each and every day. this issue – done and dusted. This all adds up to making the Partnership and each of its household brands – John Lewis, Waitrose and John Lewis Wanzl`s basket stands are on castors. Staff pull the mobile Insurance – extraordinary places to work. Join us and you’ll basket stand down the aisles to retrieve baskets and deposit find that, whatever you want to do and wherever you want baskets at the mul� ple basket sta� ons rather than the bringing them to the front of store. Greater � me effi ciency! and less to go, the John Lewis Partnership can take you there.” eff ort. How easy is that! It appears this is more than just rhetoric. Carla Bridge, for Inside Retail writes, “We hear it all the time, “we’re in the Wanzl’s basket stands can assist a retailer to increase shop business of retail, but we’re really in business of people”. sales, assist in a posi� ve shopping experience and provide The saying gets bandied about willy nilly by well meaning OH&S bene ts to staff . retail trainers and consultants, but John Lewis Partnership, IMPROVEMENT IN SHOPPER SATISFACTION: Imagine the which owns both John Lewis and high end supermarket improved sa� sfac� on of customers knowing that a basket chain, Waitrose, is one of the few retail businesses to have was always accessible and easily obtained. wholeheartedly embraced this concept. Fourteen per cent of the business’ sizeable profits are re- INCREASE IN IMPULSE SALES: Give a one item shopper access to a basket and items will be mul� plied!! distributed to its staff each year, equating to around eight weeks of additional pay a year for every John Lewis em- AVERAGE NO. ITEMS PER SALE INCREASE: If all the ployee. And the rate of redistribution is exactly the same posi� ves are embraced above, the average sale value and for the chairman as it is the sales assistant in men’s ties. items purchased count per “Any one of our associates here, could be elected by their shopper can only go in one direc� on – up! co-workers to be a member of the partnership’s execu- tive board. The board comprises the appointed directors, non executive directors and one third of the membership Contact 1300 732 053 of the board are appointed by colleagues from around the or 03 9808 2299 business. That is unique not just in retail, but in the indus- try more widely”, said Saunders. for more informaƟ on It would seem that John Lewis have really struck on what a true partnership means, it will be interesting to see if their philosophy continues to deliver outstanding results in the years to come. Source: Inside Retail 21/11/2012, John Lewis Careers Website.

February 2013 - Edition 1 MGAA editorial (Jan 2013).indd 1 16/01/2013 4:57:04 PM Corporate Partner News 21 Corporate Partner News

We think it’s fair to say that 2012 was a tough year for most of us in business, with the continued dominance in this country of the two friendly giants, pressure on margins as we fight for the customer’s dollar and ongoing fear of things to come, but, while we feel the uncertainty and lack of confidence in the market will continue, it’s something Positive outlook for JC’s Quality Foods we have come to accept now, they are not changing, they are here to stay, so let’s build a bridge, get over it, change 2013 spells a new era for JC’s Quality Foods and the posi- ourselves and plan for the future. tive start of its next 20 years. Joseph and his business, like In order to move forward we need to act, and act we are, must of us, has been under immense pressure of late with with a real focus on what we do well and improving that, a strategic move of premises, investment in infrastructure looking at what we do poorly and turning it around and and people and the constant pressure of being the market lifting our eyes to look at where we want to be in the fu- leaders in the ever competitive nut and dried fruit industry ture. Tough to do, but a must if you want to stay relevant. in an independent market reeling at the dominance of you know who. JC’s Quality Foods are excited about some new strategies, directions, ranges of products and new avenues it is tak- Joseph now feels his team at all levels is the strongest its ing to make sure that their customers and consumers are been and with some internal changes to sales teams and getting bang for their buck and know that innovation is the structures, getting the right people in the right chairs, key to keep sales moving in the right direction. We don’t some constructive internal assessments, the ongoing hard want to give too much away just yet but we look forward work of his teams in all areas and the customers that keep to a new year and helping our customers grow along us going, things are looking very bright and the place is with us. www.jcsqualityfoods.com.au buzzing for a massive year.

®

Family Owned Business Since 1994 Proud supporters of Master Grocers Australia. We are proud, passionate and nuts about what we do. For more information on how to increase your nut and dried fruit sales, please call your nearest state manager for prompt service.

Natinal Sales Manager: Brad Vincent 0414 613 424 State Sales Managers: VIC/TAS: Joe Dovier 0433 081 522 , NSW: Brad Spencer 0433 512 682, WA: Ann Cammiade 0433 514 481, QLD/NT: Debora McLane 0414 593 029

J.C.’s Quality Foods P/L Head Office, Lot 1, 1490 Ferntree Gully Road, Knoxfield, VIC 3180 Tel: 03 9764 0517 www.jcsqualityfoods.com.au

www.mga.asn.au 22 Training News & Courses Face to face Courses Victoria only All classes will run at MGA’s Head Office, Suite 5, 1 Milton Parade, Malvern VIC 3144 (unless specified)

Month Date Time Course Member Non Member Price Price January 31/01/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 February 21/02/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 12/02/2013 6-10 PM RSA *Regional Victoria $75 $85 – North Shepparton Learning Centre March 20/03/2013 9.30AM-4PM Food Safety $180 $230 * Please note a light lunch will be provided to full day attendees 9.30AM-1PM SIRRFSA001A – Apply Retail Food Safety $95 $115 1.30AM-4PM SIRRFSA002A – Monitor Food Safety Program $95 $115 26/03/2013 1-5PM RSA $75 $85 26/03/2013 6-10PM RSA *Regional Victoria $75 $85 – North Shepparton Learning Centre April 30/04/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 May 30/05/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 June 18/06/2013 9.30AM-4PM Food Safety $180 $230 * Please note a light lunch will be provided to full day attendees 9.30AM-1PM SIRRFSA001A – Apply Retail Food Safety $95 $115 1.30AM-4PM SIRRFSA002A – Monitor Food Safety Program $95 $115 27/06/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 July 25/07/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 August 29/08/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 September 24/09/2013 9.30AM-4PM Food Safety $180 $230 * Please note a light lunch will be provided to full day attendees 9.30AM-1PM SIRRFSA001A – Apply Retail Food Safety $95 $115 1.30AM-4PM SIRRFSA002A – Monitor Food Safety Program $95 $115 26/09/2013 1-5PM RSA $75 $85 October 24/10/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 November 21/11/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85 December 3/12/2013 9.30AM-4PM Food Safety $180 $230 * Please note a light lunch will be provided to full day attendees 9.30AM-1PM SIRRFSA001A – Apply Retail Food Safety $95 $115 1.30AM-4PM SIRRFSA002A – Monitor Food Safety Program $95 $115 12/12/2013 1-5 PM RSA $75 $85

February 2013 - Edition 1 Training News & Courses 23 2013 Training Dates Training Courses Retail Training Overview

In addition to being a member association MGA is also a The delivery format of our courses includes online, self- nationally Registered Training Organisation (RTO), focused paced learning options and face-to-face with some pro- on delivering training programs specific to the needs of grams available in-store (conditions apply). MGA RTO visits independent food and liquor retailers. Our training team is stores and members right across Australia delivering train- made up of a dynamic group of individuals with extensive ing and assessment in the workplace where it is needed knowledge and expertise in the retail industry who take most. pride in their ability to ensure that the services offered meets the individual and specialised needs of our clients.

RSA Courses Available in Regional Victoria Currently there are two scheduled courses, details below: Venue: North Shepparton Learning Centre Master Grocers Australia is now delivering Responsible Date: 12/02/2013 or 26/03/2013 Service of Alcohol (RSA) in many regional locations across Northern Victoria. With our RSA trainer, Adele Dyson hav- Time: 6pm – 10 pm ing over 15 years’ experience in the industry and more Price: $75 members, $85 non-members than 10 years’ experience as an RSA trainer you can have confidence you are being trained by a qualified and com- If you are interested in a RSA course at your store please petent professional. contact Adele Dyson directly on 0412 184 020 or [email protected] alternatively you can contact Training can be delivered on site at your premises if you the MGA Training Administration team on Freecall have the facilities available, otherwise an alternative can 1800 888 479 (Option 2, training) and speak with Michael, be found in the town for your convenience. Karley or Janet.

 online  Online Trainingonline Courses

Responsible service of alcohol online SAFETY Responsible This course deals with the skills and knowledge required to satisfy the requirements for re- Serviceonline of Alcohol sponsible service of alcohol under State/Territory legislation. All persons undertaking train- ing as part of a National Certificate in the service of alcohol must complete this unit. Health & online Duration Short Course Safety Member Price Non Member Price 2-4 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - NSW $135 N/A 3 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - NT $54 N/A 3 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - WA $60 $70 3 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - SA $59 N/A 4-5 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - QLD $59 N/A 3 hours Responsible Service of Alcohol - ACT $55 $55

www.mga.asn.au 24 Training News & Courses

Retail Training retail Food Safety Program  online In order to keep food safe and your business operational, food businesses need to comply Program with Food Safety Authority guidelines in each State and Territory. This Food Safety Program provides everything you need to ensure compliance of your food business in your location.

Duration Food Safety Program Systems Member Price Non Member Price 2 - 4 hours Food Safety Program Express $440 N/A 2 - 4 hours Food Safety Program Medium $660 N/A 4 - 8 hours Food Safety Program Super $1100 N/A

Allergen Awareness

This online short course focuses on raising awareness of food allergens for those working in food businesses. It includes examples and case studies with strategies for controlling and managing the risks associated with food allergens.

Duration Module Member Price Non Member Price 60min Allergen Awareness $49 N/A

Health & Safety

Aims to provide employees with information and instruction on their responsibilities and the responsibilities of management with regard to workplace health and safety, including general and specific policies and procedures and what needs to be done to ensure these are observed and followed.

Duration Module Member Price Non Member Price 30min Health & Safety Induction $35 N/A 60min Administer Workplace Health & Safety $75 N/A 40min Hazard Identification & Risk Management $85 N/A 60min Emergency Management $45 N/A 30min Store Security $35 N/A 30min Workplace Violence, Bullying & Harassment $35 N/A 60min Manual Handling $45 N/A

For bookings and more information visit www.mga.asn.au/services/training

February 2013 - Edition 1 Training News & Courses 25 online online

Food Safety

online SAFETY These nationally recognised online courses have been developed especially for delivery to Responsible all retail staff involved in all aspects of the preparation, storage and serving of food. Serviceonline of Alcohol DurationH Short Course Member Price Non Member Price ealthonline 2 - 4 hours&SafetyFood Safety - Food Handlers $95 $115 2 - 4 hours Food Safety Supervisors $95 $115 4 - 8 hours Food Safety Supervisors & Food Handlers (combined) $180 $230 4 - 6 hours Food Safety Supervisors - NSW only $150 $180

5 - 8 hours Food Safety Supervisors & Food Handlers (combined) - NSW only $210 $230

Retail Qualifications

MGA offers 3 retail qualifications; Certificate II (basic retail operational knowledge and limited practical skills), Certificate III (retail operations and/or supervision) and Certificate IV (first line management).

Duration Nationally Recognised Qualification Courses Fee for service Funded 12 months Certificate II in Retail (VIC) $2000 $1250 12 months Certificate III in Retail (VIC) $2500 $995 24 months Certificate IV in Retail Management (Nationally - ex. NT) $2500 $945

Compliance Management System

 online  Meet All Your Compliance Needs in One Package. Affordable, user friendly, cost effective, online in store training, that’s supermarket specific. Designed to give structure and discipline to manage regulatory requirements.

 Duration CMSonline Course Member Price Non Member Price SAFETY Responsible 12 months CMS Full Program $4500 $4500 Serviceonline of Alcohol 12 months CMS Renewal 2nd & consecutive Years $2000 $2000 Health 12 months CMS Fullonline Program $2500 $2500 &Safety 12 months CMS Essentials price varies price varies 12 months Food Safety Program - CMS Essentials (Option 1) $880 $880 12 months Food Safety Program - CMS Essentials (Option 2) $550 $550

www.mga.asn.au 26 Training News & Courses Training News & Courses

ACT - Food Safety Supervisors required from How many Food Safety Supervisors do I need? August 2013 Registered food businesses are required to appoint at least one FSS. Food businesses that employ more staff, maintain lengthy trading hours or have more than one food prepara- tion area may consider appointing more than one FSS to cover shiftworkers,staff leave or absences. Who can be a Food Safety Supervisor? Anyone affiliated with a food business that is involved in the handling of food may be a FSS. For example a FSS may be a business owner, shift supervisor, chef or kitchenhand, “All ACT registered food businesses are required to have at or Deli Manager. All FSS should have gained appropriate least one trained Food Safety Supervisor from August 2013 skills and knowledge in food safety and have completed under the Food Act 2001.” the minimum competency units within the last five years. A FSS’ role is to educate and supervise staff in the safe The aim of the Food Safety Supervisor requirement is to handling of food. enhance food safety in the ACT by ensuring businesses have suitably trained staff tthat can identify, correct and prevent food safety incidents. What is a Food Safety Supervisor? A Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) is a person who has appro- priate training and knowledge in food safety and has the ability to oversee safe food handling practices. They: • Have the ability to supervise and give direction to en- sure safe food handling. What type of training do I need? • Have the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and address food safety hazards in their business. The majority of food businesses will need to appoint a food safety supervisor trained in prescribed national • Have completed specified food safety competency units competency units. Food Safety Supervisors are required to within the last five years. undertake training from an Australian Registered Training Who needs a Food Safety Supervisor? Organisation (RTO) and retain proof of their training. The Food Safety Supervisor requirement applies to all busi- Training remains current for five years, and food safety nesses that are required to be registered as an ACT food supervisor qualifications issued in the last five years from business. any Australian State/Territory RTO or Government agency will be recognised. Examples of food businesses that require a FSS: Can MGA provide my training? • Supermarkets YES we can! • Cafés MGA provides the nationally recognised course that has • Fast food outlets been developed especially for delivery to all retail staff • Pubs & Clubs involved in all aspects of the preparation, storage and serv- ing of food. • Bakeries The course covers hygiene, food handling and cleaning • Butchers practices and procedures that are required, all in an online • Caterers course that can be taken as time permits in the workplace. • Restaurants Upon completion of the course participants are accredited as a qualified Food Safety Supervisor in the retail and • Market stalls hospitality sectors.

February 2013 - Edition 1 Training News & Courses 27

Does the Food Safety Supervisor have to be present at all For further Information: times? Health Protection Service web: www.health.act.gov.au/foodsafety Food safety supervisors should aim to be reasonably ph: (02) 6205 1700 email: [email protected] available whenever food is handled, however they are not required to be present at the business at all times. Log on to: www.mga.asn.au and click on ‘Food Safety Supervisors’ to purchase ACT Food Safety If all food safety supervisors are absent from a food busi- Supervisor training and qualifications. ness (such as on leave), there should be a documented mechanism (or written procedure) to ensure directions about matters relating to food safety are available to food handlers. Can I share a food safety supervisor with another business? No. While a food business may appoint more than one food safety supervisor, an individual cannot be a food safety supervisor for more than one premise. Example A fast food chain or supermarket group cannot appoint a single employee to act as the food safety supervisor for more than one business or trading site. Each registered food business or trading site requires a unique food safety supervisor.

Is Refresher Training Required? A statement of attainment or academic qualification issued by an RTO that meets the minimum training requirements will be considered valid for five years from the award’s date of issue. After five years, previously completed train- ing will not be considered valid for the purposes of being a food safety supervisor. Steps for registered businesses to comply with the food safety supervisor requirement 1. Determine who to appoint as Food Safety Supervisor 2. Train and Appoint a Food Safety Supervisor for your business (keep evidence of completed training at your business) 3. Notify the Health Directorate of your Food Safety Supervisor 4. Repeat training after five years or as required

www.mga.asn.au 28 Around Australia - SA Around Australia South Australia

South Australian grocers push to sell local wine Business Services and Consumers Minister John Rau says the proposal is worthy of consideration and will release a discussion paper early in the new year seeking feedback on issues, including how to prevent sales to minors. The move has attracted criticism it will increase under-age drinking. Foodland Group chairman Roger Drake told The Advertiser that selling bottled wine would open up new options for customers, including the ability to recommend pairings with food. “It makes sense that if South Australia is to be the wine capital of Australia, at least we have wine within our super- In February 2012, MGA’s Board of Directors held its Board markets. It’s a tradition right around the world,” he said. meeting in Adelaide, inviting key industry leaders and the Deputy Premier, John Rau, for a general discussion of “We approached the government, saying that with Coles issues (and opportunities) concerning independent super- and Woolworths having huge dominance in house brands, market operators in South Australia. we believe that it is important for SA wineries to have some representation. I think it’s going to be the lifesaver Of the range of topics discussed, the procurement of a for South Australian wine.” packaged liquor licence to enable the selling of South Australian wines in Independent Supermarkets was one IGA chairman Joseph Romeo said the move would allow that struck a chord for the Deputy Premier. In essence, for hyper-local offerings, such as wine from Stirling be- a partnership between Independent Supermarkets and ing sold in Adelaide Hills supermarkets and McLaren Vale South Australian wineries to boost the survival and sus- products in the city’s south. “Us as locals, and that’s who tainability of small to large SA wineries, in the face of the we are, support other locals,” he said. “That’s what we’re ever increasing onslaught of the dominance of Coles and about and the consumer will be the biggest winner. It’s a Woolworths and their growing house brand wines, avail- big snowball effect to keeping more jobs in SA.” able both instore and online. This initiative is a great step Victoria, NSW, the ACT and New Zealand all allow in-store forward and a credit to all those SA retailers who constant- supermarket alcohol sales to varying degrees. ly and persistently lobbied and sought support from the Mr Rau said a scaled-down liquor licence could be created SA Government. in SA, similar to those planned for small bars. Below is an extract from an article written in the Adelaide “What we’re discussing is a separate class of licence where Advertiser newspaper, by political journalist, Daniel Wills if all the person wants to do is sell wine and nothing else, on December 12, 2012. “Foodland and IGA independent supermarket operators have approached the State Government and asked it to change existing liquor laws and let them sell bottled wine. They argue that several other states already allow in-store liquor sales and the move would open up new markets for smaller SA wine makers who currently struggle to make sales to the two dominant supermarket chains. Both Coles and Woolworths already have their own liquor store chains. They stock wine, champagne, beer, liqueurs and spirits. These stores are often located adjacent to their supermarkets. Foodland and IGA operators say the cost and bureaucracy of getting a “full-blown” licence is prohibitive and they have no business interest in stocking products other than quality SA bottled wine.

February 2013 - Edition 1 Around Australia - SA 29

then they apply for this class of licence,” he said. “I can- not see why Coles and Woolies should be able to have next door, or even in part of their building, a full-blown wine shop with everything from beer to Scotch and these smaller, independent competitors of theirs are not entitled Population and population growth to have anything.” It is expected the licence would also remove current requirements for the seller to prove there is a “need” to grant the licence to cater for public demand in their area, cutting red tape and cost. Winemakers Federation of Australia chief executive Paul Evans said the proposal could provide a “valuable route to market” for small producers unable to crack traditional bottle shops. “Restricting this initiative to wine is a great vote of confidence in Australian produce and supporting regional jobs and local communities,” Mr Evans said. See Adelaide Advertiser newspaper Editorial, December 12, 2012, in LRA section of this edition.

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www.mga.asn.au 30 Around Australia - NSW Around Australia New South Wales

Jamberoo Locals and IGA Staff Throw Their converted into a supermarket space in order to continue Support behind Fredericks IGA Jamberoo serving the community. Trevor added, “We realised that the town still needed our Following Fire services, particularly over the busy Christmas and New Year period, so after taking a couple of days to grieve and come to terms with our loss, we focused on establishing a temporary store in town.” The store has been stocked with a range of essential groceries, bread, milk and fruit, all sourced from the Fredericks IGA store at Kiama Downs, and over the coming weeks, Trevor and Carmel hope to increase and fine tune this range. A number of local businesses as well as Jam- beroo High School also donated temporary refrigeration for the store while resident celebrity Rodney Rude offered a vacant block next door, for use as the store’s car park. “It has been an extremely sad situation for our family, IGA Jamberoo staff and the community and we have been Community members and IGA staff have acted swiftly to overwhelmed with generosity and kindness from the rally behind Fredericks IGA Jamberoo store-owners Trevor whole town. The community spirit here is inspirational Fredericks and Carmel Goldsmith, after their store was gut- and has been critical in getting the temporary store up and ted by a fire last year. running within a week after the fire – a truly phenomenal result,” added Trevor. On December 17, a blaze tore through the Allowrie Street IGA supermarket in the early hours of the morning, de- To further assist Trevor and Carmel open their temporary stroying much of the heritage-listed building. store, IGA staff also rallied together to lend a helping hand. A flow and list of fixtures required was initially drawn up Opened in 1924 by Trevor’s grandfather and the only by Metcash Food & Grocery NSW/ACT Relay Manager Da- supermarket in town, the store has been a huge loss for vid Romeo and Metcash Food & Grocery National General the town of Jamberoo and the Fredericks family, who have Manager Commercial Con Sciacca helped source second operated it through three generations. hand equipment and fixtures from the old Blacktown “The store has been there for the Jamberoo locals for Warehouse and the Franklins closure at Moorebank to many decades – it is the supermarket they grew up with loan Trevor and Carmel at the temporary store. and the place where many of them work. Its loss has not On Thursday, December 20, a local community working just been devastating for our family, but the entire com- bee of over 50 volunteers armed with brooms and chain- munity.” saws, helped convert the arts precinct into a functioning Trevor and Carmel, who also own the IGA store at Kiama supermarket. To complete the layout and ranging of the Downs, have received an incredible outpour of support store, an IGA Retail Operations team which included Don from the close-knit local community as well as IGA staff Targett, Peter Shackleton, David Romeo, David Worsman members in the weeks since the fire. and Andrew Buik also got on board to lend their support. They immediately received offers from several locals to use Trevor added, “The support from Metcash has been amaz- their private premises to establish a temporary space to ing, particularly from Don Targett whose assistance has continue trading, including the Jamberoo Town Hall, local been so valuable in coordinating the establishment of the church, and local RSL. Thanks to these generous offers and temporary store.” assistance from NSW Retail Project Manager at Metcash Fredericks IGA Jamberoo is fully insured and Trevor and Peter Mitchell, Trevor and Carmel have now opened a Carmel are already planning to rebuild on the old site. temporary store in Jamberoo’s arts precinct building across the road from the old supermarket, after it was hastily What an inspiring community effort from Jamberoo locals and IGA staff in assisting the Fredericks family!

February 2013 - Edition 1 Around Australia - NSW 31

Bi-Lo Elermore Vale Converts to Ritchies SUPA IGA A Passion

For Retail The former Bi-Lo supermarket, located at 134 Crouduce Road, Elermore Vale (NSW), has been converted to the With offices located in each State of Ritchies SUPA IGA banner, with an overnight transforma- Australia, Ausmart offers localised tion in late November. The 3,200 square metre store is run by Store Manager Ross equipment sales & support to Wall, and offers a vast range of items across departments including fresh produce, meats, dairy, frozen and dry Independents Nationally! groceries, with shoppers guaranteed access to a variety of exceptional quality produce that is well managed and selected to suit all tastes and budgets – just how the locals like it.

Shopping Trolleys A key feature of the store is its delicatessen which stocks a range of continental gourmet produce including a large selection of freshly sliced cold cuts, olives, cheeses and Shelving Systems other delicacies. Fresh ready to eat items are available for added conveni- Baskets & Stands ence such as handmade pastas and sauces, salads and barbecue chickens. Trolley Add-ons An additional 4,000 new products from the No Frills, Black & Gold and IGA Signature ranges has also been introduced Maintenance in store to give shoppers a variety of high quality and value for money products.

Other Equipment Commenting on the new store, NSW State Manager for Ritchies IGA, Mr David Scally said, “The new Ritchies SUPA IGA supermarket in Elermore Vale has been warmly welcomed by locals who have been impressed with its new 20 years of retail equipment supply! and vastly improved Fresh produce offer, excellent custom- For over 20 years, Ausmart has had a passion for retail which has er service and competitive prices.” seen our company grow into a leading service and equipment The Ritchies SUPA IGA Elermore Vale store is well located provider serving the retail industry. Supported by a dedicated team for shoppers, and has parking available on site for of nationally based professionals, we are proud to serve a steadily added convenience. growing customer base with quality retail equipment. The supermarket is also driven on its pricing and its cus- tomer value offer. It is currently driving heavy promotions to give customers great deals, with many weekly specials. Ritchies SUPA IGA Elermore Vale employs 74 staff, most of 1300 135 126 whom are locals from the area. The supermarket is open from 7am-10pm Monday to Saturday, and 8am-9pm www.ausmartinternational.com on Sunday. a passion for retail Great job to all the staff at Ritchies SUPA IGA Elermore Vale on converting across to SUPA IGA!

www.mga.asn.au 32 Around Australia - NSW

IGA Walgett Transforms To Deliver a Fresh New nated to offer locals a state-of-the-art supermarket with a full product range, value for money, and excellent custom- Look and Feel for Shoppers er service. Our staff are always on hand to assist customers and offer to help them take their groceries back to their IGA Walgett has transformed into a brand new super- car. We are a local business which supports the commu- market following a renovation and upgrade of its product nity that it serves in. Both the team at the store and our range to better meet the needs of shoppers. customers are proud of the supermarket”. Delivering ‘How the locals like it’, the supermarket located The 900 square metre store will now offer an expanded at 36 Fox Street, Walgett (NSW) has undergone a series of range of products across all categories including groceries, internal and external upgrades including a repaint, fixed fresh produce, meats, dairy, frozen and liquor, with shop- flooring, the addition of air conditioning, new ceilings, an pers guaranteed access to a variety of exceptional quality improved Delicatessen department, as well as an extensive produce that is well managed and selected to suit all tastes new product range across all departments. and budgets. The new store was celebrated with an official relaunch The supermarket is driven on its pricing and its customer party held on December 15, 2012, with over 200 local value offer. It is currently driving heavy promotions to give shoppers, as well as a number of local community leaders customers great deals, with many weekly specials, as well who attended the event. The day included a free bar- as the IGA Fuel Deal where customers can save 10 cents beque, ribbon and cake cutting ceremony, free samples per litre on their petrol by bringing in their receipt to the and giveaways, and huge discounts for shoppers. store when shopping. Commenting on the transformed supermarket, Store Man- IGA Walgett has parking available on- site for added con- ager Parthiv Mehta said, “The relaunch party was a great venience and is open from 8:30am-6pm Monday to Friday; success and we are extremely proud of the new IGA which 8:30am-4pm on Saturday and 9am-2pm on Sunday. we feel better meets the needs of the local community. The store employs many staff from the local area, who are “The store is over 20 years old and it has now been rejuve- well known in the community and ensure that high levels of customer service are always maintained.

New IGA Supermarket Arrives in Turramurra murra IGA and look forward to delivering to our customers friendly and helpful customer service, a comprehensive A new IGA supermarket opened in Turramurra (NSW) product range and low prices to deliver excellent value, on Monday, November 19, replacing the suburb’s long just ‘how the locals like it’. serving Franklins store located at 1338 Pacific “The new Turramurra IGA is here to serve the needs of Highway, Turramurra. locals and invest back into local groups and charities in The 1,400 square metre store will now offer an expanded the area. We look forward to working hard to make the range of products across all categories including fresh new store a success, meeting the people in the region and produce, meats, dairy, frozen and dry groceries, as well as adapting our grocery range to suit their needs,” he added. general merchandise, with shoppers guaranteed access to The store will run the new IGA Rewards shopper loyalty a variety of exceptional quality produce that is well man- program, where shoppers receive one point for each dollar aged and selected to suit all tastes and budgets. spent in store. Once 500 points are achieved, shoppers can A major draw card for the store is the delicatessen, which redeem $5 off their next purchase. has a selection of gourmet cold cut meats and a range of In addition to this, Turramurra IGA will also be operating cheeses and marinated vegetables on offer. The bakery de- IGA’s successful IGA Community Chest program. When a partment is also popular, stocking a variety of fresh breads, customer purchases a product with the IGA Community rolls, cakes and pastries. Chest logo printed on the label, a percentage is automati- The new store owner and manager Mark Leysen, has re- cally credited to the store’s IGA Community Chest account tained all existing staff within the store and looks forward which is donated back to a nominated charity or to continuing to provide customers with a great selection community group. of products, competitive prices and excellent customer The supermarket is open from 8am-7pm Monday to service. Wednesday; 8am-9pm on Thursday; 8am-7pm on Friday; Mark said, “We are delighted to launch the new Turra- and 8am-6pm on weekends.

February 2013 - Edition 1 Around Australia - QLD 33 Around Australia Queensland SPAR Australia Launches New “Jardin Fresh Life” Store in Rothwell

SPAR Australia launched its first Jardin Fresh Life branded of international foods available, demonstrate the under- store in Queensland. Jardin Fresh Life, formerly a Farmer standing and dedication Jardin Fresh Life has to catering Pat’s store and managed by Nick Habgood, is located next for their local community. to the new Zone Food Precinct at Rothwell and is a highly The Jardin Fresh Life brand symbolises large format stores visible destination store. with a major focus on Fresh. This symbolic name was This store, which already has a strong history in fresh food inspired by the desire to bring garden fresh produce to retailing, has been supplemented by the introduction of a the tables of customers to inspire a move towards greater comprehensive grocery range which now enables custom- health and wellbeing. Jardin (French for garden) Fresh Life ers to complete all of their usual supermarket and fresh is the conduit from the paddock to the plate. food shopping in the one store. With major competition in SPAR Australia Managing Director Lou Jardin, says “We see the area, Jardin Fresh Life is a high volume, competitively this brand as providing a viable alternative for consum- priced store, ensuring excellent value for customers. ers, where they will receive personalised service, qual- Jardin Fresh Life, Rothwell, features a tight grocery range ity products and a sense of community, all from a family in a market style atmosphere. The 1,721m2 store exhibits business. We are excited to have brought our new concept outstanding Fresh departments where quality and range North and open our first Jardin Fresh Life store in Queens- are paramount. Produce is sourced fresh from the markets land. The quality and range of products available instore, daily and in-store butchers, Marjax Meats, prepare all of is excellent and we’re sure customers will love the change. the quality meat on site and cut to customer requests. There are still quite a few familiar faces from Farmer Pat’s The store’s popular deli, grocery, dairy, freezer and spe- and a few new ones too who look forward to getting to cialty foods round out the offer to ensure all of the store’s know their customers”. customers’ needs are met with ease. The extensive range

www.mga.asn.au 34 Around Australia - VIC Around Australia Victoria IGA Heathcote Comes to the Rescue of the Firefighters During the Bushfire Crisis

Store owner of the IGA supermarket in Heathcote, NSW, circumstances such as fires, floods, search & rescues, as Mr Joseph Zappia, in conjunction with supplier Metcash well as dedicating time weekly to attend training sessions, Food & Grocery, has kindly coordinated the donation of which is truly generous. one palette of 60 cartons of bottled water to the volun- “Once I heard about the fires I organised the palette of teers of the Heathcote Rural Fire Service who have been bottled water and delivered them to the Senior Deputy working tirelessly to battle the bushfires in Southern NSW. Captain Mr Todd Gibson. They were extremely apprecia- While the suburb of Heathcote has been safe, the local fire tive of the refreshments after working around the clock in service has been instrumental in battling the blazes in Sus- tough conditions. It was the least we could do as a local sex Inlet and Nowra, with the teams consisting of volun- business to help them out,” added Joseph. teers dedicating their time to help others. In addition, Joseph has also supplied ice-blocks to the fire- Mr Zappia says that many of his customers are members of fighting teams from his store. the fire brigade in the area, and when he heard the news Joseph concluded, “The firefighters were so grateful for about the bushfires, he wanted to offer help to the volun- the refreshments and as it turns out, it was the same vol- teers through his supermarket, by supplying much needed unteer team who previously helped the IGA supermarket refreshments for them. in Yenda when it flooded last year. It’s so nice to see such He said, “The fire brigade operates with a team of great a great community spirit here where the locals help each volunteers who risk their lives to help others. This com- other.” munity organization relies on the generosity of others as they have limited funding. Volunteers take time off work, sometimes unpaid, to assist the community under various

February 2013 - Edition 1 Corporate Partner News 35 Corporate Partner News

While both Bill and David had the experience and pas- sion to run a supermarket, what they really needed was a banking partner. Their existing bank hadn’t given them the support they needed with a revolving door of Relation- ship Managers, none of whom properly understood the Sims Supermarkets and ANZ, a winning business: “we wanted a relationship with a person, not a phone”. The nature of the supermarket business, not to partnership! mention the complexity meant that Bill and David needed a proper face-to-face relationship, with a banker that spe- With over 40 years of first hand experience under his belt cifically understood supermarkets. and generations of family involvement in the industry, Bill Sims clearly knows supermarkets. Although Bill would Along came Con Palmbas who set about establishing the be the first to admit that you can’t underestimate the correct debt levels with a repayment plan that better suit- need for a good support team - whether it’s the 80+ staff ed the business. With lending guidelines specifically suited employed in his supermarkets or the Sims Group’s new to Supermarkets and extensive knowledge of the industry, Relationship Manager, ANZ Banker, Con Palmbas. Con was able to structure a package of credit and transac- tion solutions that would give the business the flexibility to The Sims group, established by Bill’s father William Snr, prosper in an uncertain trading environment, while provid- has had a presence in Melbourne’s west since the 1940’s. ing Bill and David the face-to-face banking relationship and Nothing stays the same for long in the supermarket busi- personalised service they had been looking for. ness and the group have seen many changes over the years with Bill Sims and his business partner David Cotter To see how an ANZ Supermarket Specialist banker can currently operating the independent Sims Supermarkets in help you and your business today, contact ANZ National Footscray and Werribee. Manager Andy Galgano on 0421 616 965

www.mga.asn.au