2024 was a tumultuous year for retailers, with the country experiencing one of the hardest retail recessions experienced in years. As the e-commerce industry moves through its growing pains, staying ahead of the curve is essential for businesses to stay afloat in a competitive marketplace. We look at the top five retail predictions.

As Australia’s leading e-commerce resource, Power Retail, is proud to collaborate with Checkout.com on The Future of Ecommerce Report, created to deliver expert-led insights in the world of retail for 2025.

Packed with exclusive insights from ten leading ecommerce experts and industry professionals, The Future of Ecommerce by Power Retail is a 29-page report highlights top predictions for the year ahead and their implications for retail businesses aiming to thrive in 2025. Here we’ve compiled the top five predictions: 

Experience Driven Consumerism

Reflecting on the “Taylor-mania” phenomenon from earlier this year, when Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour had a chokehold on Australia, it pointed to how this event epitomized a broader shift in consumer behaviour.

Power Retail Editor Rosalea Catterson says, “The fact that Taylor Swift tickets, themed outfits, and hospitality experiences sold out around the country while the cost-of-living pressures mounted, really proves that people are willing to put their wallets where their interests, values, and things that spark joy are.”

In 2025, we’ll see retailers capitalising on this through interactive pop-up stores, experiential in-store events, and loyalty programs that reward engagement, as consumers increasingly seek out shopping experiences that go beyond transactions.

Loyalty Programs

Expanding on the role of loyalty programs, in 2025, they will continue to play a pivotal role in addressing consumer priorities amid rising cost-of-living pressures.

Sarah Richardson, Chair of the Australian Loyalty Association shares, “Shoppers are increasingly focusing on value and transparency, so will be accessible programs that offer clear value through regular discounts, cashback, and simplified points redemption. Expanding earning opportunities, such as multiplied points or exclusive promotions, are also great opportunities for brands to make a significant impact with their loyalty programs.”

For Gen Z in particular, programs that integrate flexible payment options like BNPL, will further stand out, aligning with the demand for innovative and accessible loyalty solutions.

AI in Retail

AI will have a transformative impact on retail in 2025, as it will continue to reshape customer experiences and aid backend operations. In fact, when Power Retail polled their network of retailers, 100% of respondents said that they are embracing AI as they head into 2025.

Irving Lee, APAC Retail Industry Lead at Microsoft predicts, “On the customer-facing side, 2025 will see conversational commerce take flight, shifting shoppers from traditional “scroll-based” browsing to interactive ‘goal-based commerce.’ For leading ecommerce companies, AI shopping assistants will shift customers away from the basic search bar towards an interactive and highly personalised shopping experience. Similar capabilities will streamline and improve customer service post-purchase.”

Additionally, AI’s ability to analyse data from richer customer interactions will enable retailers to customize content dynamically and even influence product design and development.

Cross-Border Payment Solutions Taking Aussie Retailers Abroad

In 2025, more Australian retailers will look to expand internationally, driven by rising global consumer demand and the digital economy’s borderless opportunities. Optimised cross-border payment solutions—offering streamlined currency conversion, local payment methods, and compliance with international regulations—will play a pivotal role in this growth.

Brian Sze, APAC General Manager at Checkout.com says, “Supporting local acquiring of these methods, intelligent routing, and efficient currency conversion will help to reduce transaction costs for all parties, improve acceptance rates, and create a smoother checkout experience for international customers. Retailers with global-ready payment infrastructures will find themselves well-positioned to attract and retain customers worldwide.”

Increased Data Transparency

In 2025, stricter privacy laws under the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 will push Australian retailers to prioritize data transparency.

Customers will demand clarity on what data is collected, how it’s used, and the ability to opt in or out. Retailers will be forced to address the risks of retaining unnecessary data, and will need to adopt policies to destroy it after reasonable periods.

Alita Harvey-Rodriguez, Managing Director at MI Academy says, “We will all need to be a lot more transparent and responsible with customer data. The amendments confirm the Government’s view that entities have a responsibility to protect Australians’ personal information and not treat it merely as a commercial asset. We saw the Optus and the Medibank debacle, where hackers were able to get critical information like passport and Medicare information. Showing how risky it is to hold onto customer information that isn’t needed over a long period of time.

Retailers are guilty of this too. Keeping information that’s unnecessary for potential commercial use. To avoid getting into hot water, brands should have a point in their policies that says when they’re going to destroy customer information after a reasonable time. It’s going to be a fine balance between what marketers say they need and what legal teams say is the right thing to do!”

Additional trending areas highlighted in the report include social commerce, global commerce, marketplaces, profits, marketplaces and innovation. To read the full report visit https://powerretail.com.au/resources/the-future-of-ecommerce-report/.

Epson has introduced two new stylish mini laser TV projectors—the EF-21 and the EF-22—to the EpiqVision line-up. The new projectors offer an affordable big-screen, immersive lamp-free laser light source that delivers outstanding image quality for small businesses.

Both models are easy to set up, have a screen size of up to 150 inches, come with Google TV^{TM 1} built-in and two 5 W speakers, which can also be used as a stand-alone speaker via Bluetooth connectivity. The EF-22, available in metallic black, has the added convenience of an adjustable fixed stand, while the EF-21 comes in warm white or smoke ice green for a stylish addition to any interior.

The compact mini laser projectors can be projected in any direction – on a wall, ceiling or floor. The adjustable built in stand on the EF-22 can be rotated for even more flexible display options.

The EF-21 and EF-22 deliver a big screen entertainment experience either at home or on the go.  Epson’s 3LCD technology means images are bright and vivid with equally high white and colour light output that brings content to life. Both models have 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio to produce clearly defined shadows and deep blacks.

The EF-21 and EF-22 are easy to set up thanks to technologies including automatic focus, keystone correction, obstacle avoidance and screen fit.

Google TV^TM, which is built into both projector models, brings convenience to the user to stream a range of content, including movies, music videos and much more for any occasion.

With the Google Assistant, entertainment can be accessed quickly and devices can be controlled around the home.

The EpiqVision EF-21 and EF-22 mini smart laser projectors are expected to ship in Australia arriving in December 2024.

EpiqVision Key Features

• 1000 lumen colour and white brightness

• Laser light source projector

• 3LCD, 3 chip technology

• Auto correct function

• Google TV with Netflix

• Built-in twin 5W stereo speakers

To learn more, visit www.epson.com.au/hometheatre.

Australian small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are encountering significant challenges, with business failure rates climbing to 2020 levels. In October 2024, 5.04 per cent of companies failed, edging close to the 2020 peak of 5.08 per cent.  Alon’s research has identified the seven biggest 2025 challenges facing SMB in 2025.

Unfortunately, SMBs will continue to face considerable challenges going into the new year, with Alon Rajic, Founder of Small Business Loans Australia, conducting research to uncover the key challenges for SMBs in 2025.  

Alon says: “Small to medium-sized businesses make up 98 per cent of all businesses in Australia, and they are increasingly doing it tough. As we head into 2025, they will likely continue suffering resource shortages, reduced customer spending and continued inflation, all of which strain limited resources. Other challenges like bank fees on international transfers and cyberattacks can be reduced through preparation, awareness and allocation of resources. It is important that SMBs prepare for these hurdles and know how to receive support from either private financial providers or the Government.” 

Alon’s research identified the following seven biggest 2025 challenges facing SMB:  

1. Tighter employee laws. Recent industrial relations reforms are increasingly stretching small business resources and making it difficult for them to adapt resources to growth and changing markets. Reforms include a 5.2% increase in the national minimum wage; permitting ‘employee-like’ contractors to seek Commission intervention for unfair contract term disputes; not permitting pay secrecy clauses to address the gender pay gap; multi-employer bargaining; giving employees the enforceable right to seek flexible working conditions; and 10 days’ paid family and domestic violence leave annually. A study found that over half of Australian SMBs think that the Industrial Relations Reforms will make payroll procedures more complex, with many completely unprepared for the changes.¹ Forty (40) per cent of SMEs find it difficult to keep up with legislation and compliance obligations.²
2. SMEs will continue to be resource poor – but AI will help to alleviate business pressures. 43 per cent of SMBs consider the cost of hiring talent too much, and a further 47 per cent find the hiring process too lengthy.³ 25 per cent of SMBs indicated that lack of time and capacity was the main reason they were unable to adapt new technology into their business.⁴ Despite this, a study from Small Business Loans Australia found that 60 per cent of all Australian businesses are already using AI, or planning to integrate AI in the next two years. SMBs are adopting AI tools such as AI-powered reporting and chatbots with automated email replies to streamline time-consuming tasks and improve operational efficiency. Find the full report here: https://smallbusinessloansaustralia.com/are-small-to-medium-businesses-harnessing-the-power-of-ai/ 
3. Inadequate government support. Small businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to stay afloat in the current environment of rising wages, reduced customer spending and ongoing inflation. Without further government assistance, many will face increasingly difficult circumstances. In 2023-24, the number of companies forced into external administration grew by 39 per cent from 2022-23.³ In a survey of small-to-medium businesses by Small Business Loans Australia, 94 per cent of say they need more Government support to help them survive, and 41 per cent says they require financial support to pay wage increases. The full survey and results can be found here: https://smallbusinessloansaustralia.com/will-small-businesses-benefit-from-the-new-federal-government-incentives-in-fy2025/.
4. Increased competition. In 2025, small-to-medium businesses will start seeing more competition from an increasing number of Australians starting side hustles. Small Business Loans Australia survey found that 1 in 2 Australians are considering starting a small business in the next five years. A further 38 per cent would run a side hustle in addition to their main job. The survey found that the main motivator is to boost incomes as inflation and interest rates put pressure on household budgets. As consumer spending continues to drop, this will also place pressure on small-to-medium businesses. The full report can be viewed here: https://smallbusinessloansaustralia.com/factors-driving-small-business-start-ups-in-australia/.
5. Late payments impacting cash flow. Small-to-medium businesses will continue struggling with tight cash reserves. A survey found that in 2024, nearly half of businesses forced to reduce their own income and 31 per cent dipped into personal funds to cover business expenses. Alarmingly, one in five has zero cash reserves.⁴ This is exacerbated by late payments, which affect three-quarters of businesses.⁵ To add to the challenge, many small-to-medium businesses prioritise customer and client satisfaction over their own cash flow, leaving them hesitant to chase late payments. 
   
   
6. SMBs are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. Data from Accenture’s Cost of Cybercrime Study found that 43 per cent of cyberattacks target small businesses. The number of reported cyberattacks has steadily risen, with 16,000 more cyberattacks in 2022 than in 2019. Limited resources could be a major factor in the increase, with the report finding that 48 per cent of SMBs spend less than $500 a year on cyber security. ⁶
7. Paying too much in financial services fees. Small-to-medium businesses often lack the resources and time to shop around for better rates across financial products, leading to many overpaying when transacting. Research has found that a large proportion pay too much when conducting international trade through a bank. A recent Money Transfer Australia study found that 62 per cent are trading internationally through the big four banks, despite generally higher exchange rate mark-ups and fees in comparison to specialist money providers. Businesses could be paying up to $850 in fees when transferring $20,000 through a bank, whereas a non-bank money transfer provider might charge as little as $100.⁷ Read the full report here: https://moneytransfer.com.au/are-australian-businesses-overpaying-on-transfers-in-2024/. 

Small business complaints to AFCA (the Australian Financial Complaints Authority) reached a record high in 2023-24, with the national financial ombudsman service also monitoring a rise in financial difficulty complaints amid challenging economic conditions.

Small businesses took 4,466 complaints to AFCA in 2023-24, a rise of 17 per cent on the previous financial year.

“This record number of complaints to AFCA reflects the pressure small businesses are under as they struggle to manage challenges with cash flow and financing, along with higher costs and interest rates,” AFCA’s Lead Ombudsman for Small Business, Suanne Russell, said.

“We expect financial difficulty complaints to continue to rise in the coming year,” Ms Russell said. “We encourage small businesses to talk to their financial service providers if they are facing challenges, and we urge financial firms to adequately address requests from customers if they need help to get through temporary difficulty.”

In addition, small businesses lodged 263 complaints in relation to scams in 2023-34, a rise of 48%.

Small businesses were targeted by email compromise scams in particular, where scammers intercept and alter payment details. These scams can result in substantial losses, especially in property settlements and large transactions.

With limited resources to dedicate to fraud prevention, and often larger amounts in accounts, small businesses could be vulnerable to scams, Ms Russell said.

“Scams are a growing threat to small businesses and can have a significant impact on business owners. We believe financial service providers should enhance protections for their small business customers to help prevent these damaging losses.

“We also welcome the introduction of legislation for the government’s Scams Prevention Framework, which aims to enhance scams prevention as well as the response to consumers and small businesses impacted by scams.” 

Business loans were again the most commonly complained about financial product in complaints from small businesses to AFCA, rising 16 per cent. The top five products were rounded out by complaints related to business transaction accounts, commercial property, credit cards and commercial vehicles.

“This year we saw an 84 per cent increase in complaints around interpretation of product terms and conditions – again, we encourage financial firms to make sure they’re communicating clearly and effectively with small business customers,” Ms Russell said.

Last financial year, AFCA closed 4,380 small business complaints, securing $20 million in compensation for small businesses in cases where complaints were upheld.

AFCA provides an independent and impartial financial complaints resolution service that is free for small businesses and individual consumers.

In good news for online shoppers in the lead-up to Christmas, new research shows almost 9 in 10 Australian retailers have made major updates to their shipping services, most of which offer more options for faster deliveries. The changes will continue into 2025, with 82 per cent of retailers planning to offer customers even more shipping options in the new year. 

The findings come from an independent survey of 203 Australian retailers commissioned by CouriersPlease, Australia’s fastest growing franchised courier and parcel delivery service. 

The survey follows earlier CouriersPlease research that showed 88 per cent of online shoppers abandoned shopping carts at checkout, with 63 per cent blaming high shipping costs.¹ Parcel theft has also become a problem in Australia, with 36 per cent of people reporting parcel loss or theft in their lifetime.² 

Sweeping changes have been made this year across 87 per cent of retailers to counteract some of these issues. They include new shipping rates and discounts, more immediate shipping and broader delivery options.  

Retailers level the field on shipping rates  

With shipping costs dependent on delivery location, regional shoppers are often charged higher shipping rates at checkout. This year, 28 per cent of retailers switched to flat shipping rates, levelling the field no matter where the customer lives. More than a quarter (29%) are planning to add flat rates next year. 

An equal 20 per cent of retailers also introduced bulk-rate shipping discounts and free shipping in some areas, though this often requires a minimum spend. The trend will continue into the new year with another 21 per cent of retailers planning to make the changes.  

Medium-sized retailers (with 51-200 employees) had the highest number of changes to shipping rates, with 19 per cent introducing free shipping and 43 per cent adding flat rates.  

More options for faster deliveries

Thirty per cent of Australian retailers introduced same-day or next-day shipping, reflecting high shopper demand for immediate delivery. In Queensland, an overwhelming 41 per cent of retailers introduced same-day shipping – significantly more than in South Australia (at 27%). On the flipside, 47 per cent of South Australian retailers introduced next-day shipping, compared with 24 per cent in Queensland, 32 per cent in NSW and 24 per cent in Victoria.  

As couriers work around the clock in the lead up to Christmas to deliver record parcel volumes, shoppers can help them achieve a first-time delivery by entering complete and correct receiver details – including the business name, unit number and email address, if relevant – on the retailer check out page. 

More options for secure deliveries 

More retailers have also been offering alternative delivery choices, allowing customers to receive parcels after hours when they are home, or redirect goods to secure collection points or a neighbour’s house. Twenty-two per cent of retailers introduced after-hours shipping this year, while 9 per cent added alternative delivery options. 

CouriersPlease offers several alternative delivery methods, including redelivery to a different address, leaving parcels in a safe place nominated by the parcel recipient, and delivering parcels to a neighbour up to three doors away. The company has 3000+ convenient pickup and delivery locations in partnership with technology partner HUBBED Parcelpoints. These free pick-up and drop-off locations enable parcel recipients to collect and return parcels seven days a week, and during extended hours, close to home. 

CouriersPlease CEO Richard Thame said: “With such a high proportion of retailers having expanded their shipping options this year, shoppers can expect more choice than ever for getting their parcels delivered in a way that suits them this Christmas. It’s also encouraging to see that retailer shipping strategies will continue to evolve next year, giving shoppers more flexibility and control over how they receive their orders.” 

The full survey results can be found here. 

As fruit, vegetable and nut growers face challenging economic conditions and a drop in consumption, grower-owned not-for-profit research and development company Hort Innovation today announced it will activate $60M of investment into early-stage startups to drive positive change.
Through a partnership with Artesian, a leading alternative and impact investing firm, the new Hort Innovation Venture Fund will back promising startups whose innovative products and services have the potential to make a tangible impact in areas such as sustainability, affordability and resilience. The aim is to improve productivity and elevate the profile and accessibility of Australian-grown fruits and vegetables locally, and worldwide.
Hort Innovation chief executive officer Brett Fifield said now more than ever, the need to diversify investment approaches and partner with innovative change-makers is critical to retain Australia’s food security.
“Australian horticulture is world-class and therefore demands the best innovation,” he said.
“We are creating this world-first horticulture-specific venture capital fund to attract local and international startups who are focused on prosperity and sustainability.”
“By investing in startups, we are enabling fresh ideas, never-before-seen technologies, and new ways of thinking to make growing easier, more sustainable and cost-effective, and lift consumption.”

Key Hort Innovation Venture Fund focus areas include:

• Increasing productivity: Helping Australian growers to become more adaptable, resilient and financially sustainable. This may be in the use of AI to predict what to do and when to do it, new automation options, or the use of satellite technology to guide decision-making.
• Sustainability: Delivering new innovations to align Australian growers of fruit, vegetables, nuts, turf and nursery plants with world-leading environmental sustainability. For example, enhancing monitoring capabilities to optimise water use, track and reduce carbon and expand chemical use alternatives.
• Consumption: Supporting healthy living by meeting changing consumer preferences. For example, naturally breeding produce that is nutrient dense, with a long shelf life while being aesthetically pleasing.
  Artesian CEO Jeremy Colless said the firm was excited about the partnership with Hort Innovation, emphasising its potential to drive impactful investments in cutting-edge technologies that will deliver sustainable, long-term benefits for Australian produce farmers and consumers.
  “Delivering the world’s first horticulture-specific venture capital fund with Hort Innovation is a significant milestone and an example of how Artesian works with leading industry, corporate, government and institutional investors to develop tailor made solutions that address innovation challenges,” he said.
  Mr Colless highlighted the collaboration as a unique opportunity to elevate productivity and innovation across the agriculture sector, fostering resilience and advancing Australia’s position as a leader in sustainable horticulture.
  “The approach the Hort Innovation Venture Fund is taking is proven, and well suited to address the needs of Australia’s horticulture production industry.”

Artesian currently has more than $1.2 billion in assets under management including through technology and venture capital investments across energy transformation, agrifood and natural capital, healthcare and emerging technology segments.
The Hort Innovation Venture Fund is the first new fund to be rolled out through Hort Innovation Frontiers. Launched in June, the Hort Innovation Frontiers investment program will invest up to $500M over the next 10 years to seize big opportunities and develop solutions to horticulture’s major challenges.

Examples of existing research and development programs

• Case study no 1: Productivity – Getting drones to do the job of bees
As the use of protected glasshouses to grow fruit and vegetables increases with climate change, it has been found that traditional pollinator bees are reluctant to pollinate in these environments. As a result, pollination by hand is often required.
In response, through Hort Innovation, Australian growers and researchers have partnered with Singaporean tech company, Polybee, to trial the use of ‘microdrones’ that pollinate plants using the wind from small inbuilt fans. These devices operate 24/7, automatically returning to a dock to recharge when required, significantly reducing labour costs and increasing efficiency.
• Case study no 2: Sustainability – Doing more with less
Sustainable practices are critical to Australian farmers who are keen to maintain land quality for future generations. Investors, export markets and local consumers are also increasingly looking at the sustainability credentials of produce.
A banana grower in the Great Barrier Reef catchment, Gavin Devany, has worked with Hitachi through Hort Innovation to minimise the footprint of his business. Through a specially developed dashboard, he tracks advanced sensing, leachate monitoring and sediment analysis to ensure best management practices relating to irrigation, fertilisation and plant care.
• Case study no 3: Consumption – More consistent produce
Data shows one bad eating experience can turn a consumer off buying a fruit or vegetable again.
To limit the chance of that happening, Australian scientists are collaborating with their global counterparts to develop new papaya, strawberries, mangoes, pineapples and passionfruit varieties that are based on consumer preference testing. Each of these naturally-bred varieties will be tailored to smell, taste, feel and appear in a way that is desirable to purchasers. These varieties could also be easier to grow for farmers, requiring less water and being more disease resistant.
For more, go to the Frontiers website.

Samsung Electronics announced in Australia the launch of the latest Galaxy A smartphones — the new Galaxy A16 5G. These new, affordable smartphones bring stunning improvements to the A series lineup, combining immersive visuals, sleek designs, and secure, reliable experiences; elevating everyday experiences for its users. 

Galaxy A16 5G adopt Samsung’s signature Galaxy design language, featuring refined, rounded corners and a linear camera lens layout. The Galaxy A16 5G is available in the premium colour of Blue Black.  

Immersive experience with FHD+ Super AMOLED display 

Galaxy A16 5G feature a 6.7″ FHD+ Super AMOLED display, a notable upgrade from last year’s 6.5-inch screen on the A15 series. The Super AMOLED display provides scenes with true-to-life colors and sharp clarity, making the display ideal for watching videos, gaming, or browsing content. 

The Galaxy A16 5G also introduces an improved, sleeker design, with a thinner body measuring just 7.9mm—down from 8.4mm in last year’s A15 series. The streamlined bezels further emphasise the 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, helping users better immerse in content and gameplay while enhancing the overall screen size and visual experience.  

In addition, the key island design provides a sleek look and feel, which contributes to an easy and intuitive grip on the Galaxy A16 5G, making the device more comfortable to hold for daily use. 

Samsung Galaxy A16 Reliability and enhanced security 

Samsung’s commitment to reliability and security is at the core of the Galaxy A16 5G. A16 5G is IP54-rated1 for dust and water resistance. 

The Galaxy A16 5G will also receive 6 generations of One UI and Android OS updates, as well as 6 years of Samsung Security Maintenance Releases (SMR), keeping the device secure and up to date. Samsung Knox Vault is also integrated into the Galaxy A16 5G, providing high-level security to protect private, personal data such as user passwords and secrets from hardware-based attacks including voltage glitches, temperature tampering, and laser interference. 

High-resolution triple camera 

For photography lovers, the Galaxy A16 5G comes equipped with a versatile triple lens, headlined by a 50MP main sensor that captures stunning photos in any conditions. Accompanied by a 5MP ultra-wide and 2MP macro lens, the A16 5G ensures every shot is detailed and vibrant. Selfie enthusiasts can enjoy sharper, more joyful selfies with the 13MP front camera, which can focus on details, sharpness, and color rendition if any. 

Enhanced performance and long-lasting battery life 

Under the hood, the Galaxy A16 5G boasts a performance boost thanks to its advanced octa-core processor, ensuring smooth and flawless performance for high-quality videos, games, and multitasking. The Galaxy A16 5G’s robust 5000mAh battery with 25W Super-Fast Charging capability enables users to stay connected throughout the day. 

Samsung Galaxy A16 Pricing and availability 

The new Galaxy A16 5G will be available in Blue Black for $349 (5G) at selected retailers from 14th November 2024. 

Xero, the global small business platform, has released new research highlighting how Australian small businesses feel about participating in Black Friday this year. The survey of 551 Australian small businesses reveals 60% agree there is pressure to compete with big businesses during Black Friday sales, and nearly a third (29%) of those not planning on taking part this year can’t afford to offer discounts.

The survey explored the relationship small businesses have with Black Friday and found that nearly a quarter (24%) of small businesses are not engaging in the event this year, and a further 25% are unsure if they will.

Angad Soin, Managing Director, ANZ, Xero, said: “Only half of small businesses are leveraging the opportunity to take part in Black Friday, despite it being touted as one of the most important sales events on the annual calendar. The reasons for not doing so are varied but the primary factors point to a concern around how they can participate while driving growth sustainably.”

While affordability is the biggest driver for not participating, other reasons include not having enough stock or inventory to support the event (19%), the logistics are too difficult (11%) and concerns that discounting would negatively impact their profit margins (15%). Small businesses who previously participated in Black Friday shared a similar sentiment, with more than a quarter (26%) stating budgeting and forecasting cash flow as a key challenge.

Sustainability and brand image a concern

Personal attitudes towards Black Friday and discounting also drive rejection of the sales event among small businesses. More than a third (34%) of those surveyed say they rarely or never offer discounts because they believe it devalues their business’ goods or services. Some businesses who are not planning on participating in Black Friday this year revealed they do not feel beholden to sales, with nearly a quarter (24%) feeling confident their customers will shop with them regardless. Moreover, nearly one quarter (23%) of small businesses with 11-20 employees, who are not planning on taking part this year, feel Black Friday sales are environmentally unsustainable.

Jess and Stef Dadon, founders of Melbourne-based sustainable footwear brand, TWOOBS, said: “TWOOBS doesn’t participate in Black Friday because we believe that major sales events like Black Friday are contributing to overconsumption culture. The response from our customers has been overwhelmingly positive, and most are excited to see a brand putting the planet above sales. We’ll be using our social media channels over the Black Friday period to ignite thoughtful conversation about what overconsumption means for our planet, and to educate and inspire consumers and other brands.”

Customer retention is a key motivation to participate

Meanwhile, those 50% of Australian small businesses who will participate in Black Friday are doing so primarily to grow and strengthen their customer base. Respondents are hoping to reach new customers (48%), build loyalty with existing customers (42%) and meet customer demand (39%). Xero’s research also suggests an eagerness to boost sales may be pushing participation for small businesses who often offer discounts, with 55% saying boosting sales and cash flow was a reason they hold sales.

Angad Soin added: “Cash flow is critical for small businesses, and greater visibility of it can help them make better choices around discounting and marketing spend for events like Black Friday. We’d suggest small businesses speak with their advisor to work out what makes sense for their situation, plus take advantage of tools that are available to help with understanding their options.

“Leveraging the groundswell of major events like Black Friday can be a great opportunity to remind customers why supporting small businesses matters. As a big believer in shopping local and supporting small businesses, I hope other consumers do the same and keep their favourites top of mind during the busiest retail period of the year.”

Fiverr International Ltd. (NYSE: FVRR), the company that is changing how the world works together, has today revealed its latest 2024 Business Trends Index. The Index tracks freelance digital services trends based on searches across Fiverr’s platform. Over the last six months, the trending in demand skills by Australian businesses include advertising services, dropshipping, and digital design, notably 3D printing. This surge highlights the growing need for freelancers as businesses adapt to shifting market conditions in their pursuit of a competitive edge

As Australian businesses navigate ongoing economic challenges, there are encouraging signs of recovery. More companies are turning to freelance specialists to accelerate growth and drive innovation. The Index reveals a renewed sense of business optimism, marked by a staggering 6,700% increase in searches for advertising services, with a focus on Google and social media campaigns. Meanwhile, dropshipping services saw a  290% increase, reflecting the continued growth of eCommerce as small businesses adopt new retail models. Additionally, digital design services—particularly 3D printing—experienced an extraordinary 8,530% surge, highlighting the rising  demand for advanced design and manufacturing solutions.

Matti Yahav, Chief Marketing Officer at Fiverr, noted, “The strong growth of advertising, dropshipping, and 3D design services on Fiverr signals a significant shift in how Australian businesses are seizing market opportunities. Freelancers are playing a vital role in driving innovation across industries. In an unpredictable economy,  businesses are strategically investing in freelance talent to remain agile and competitive. We’re seeing a particular focus on services that can boost brand visibility, optimise eCommerce operations, and bring cutting-edge design projects to life, signalling renewed optimism in the business landscape.” 

Top Freelance digital services in high demand skills in Demand in Australia:

1. Advertising and Digital Marketing experience as businesses seek boost their brand in a competitive market

Australian companies are ramping up their advertising and digital marketing  efforts to stand out in a competitive marketplace. This has resulted in a significant surge in demand for freelance advertising professionals, with some freelancers earning up to $800 per project. Within the advertising category the top three skills in demand are:

• Google Ads Campaigns – +26% growth | Earning range: $500 – $2,000 per project
• Meta Ads Campaigns – +43% growth | Earning range: $300 – $1,000 per project
• Monthly SEO Service – +549% growth | Earning range: $500 – $1,200 per project

2. Boom in Dropshipping as eCommerce thrives

Shopify experts remain in high demand among small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), alongside the growing popularity of dropshipping. As more businesses look for cost-effective ways to manage inventory and scale operations, the Index reports a 290% increase in demand for dropshipping services. Businesses are increasingly turning to freelancers to set up, manage, and optimise their online stores

• Shopify Expert – +34% growth | Earning range: $400 – $3,500 per project
• Shopify Marketing – +29% growth | Earning range: $400 – $3,200 per project
• Dropshipping Setup – +290% growth | Earning range: $200  – $2,500 per project

3. 3D Printing skills leads the rise in digital design services

Digital design, specifically 3D printing, has seen an explosive 8,530% increase in demand as industries from fashion to automotive adopt 3D printing for prototyping and manufacturing. Freelancers with 3D design expertise are capitalising on this surge by providing specialised services to a wide range of industries.

• 3D Printing Design – +8,530% growth | Earning range: $500 – $1,000  per project
• 3D rendering architecture – +56% growth | Earning range: $500 – $1,000  per project

Matti Yahav added, “These trends highlight the wide range  of services being requested  on  Fiverr across industries. Whether it’s a small retailer exploring dropshipping or a tech startup pushing the limits of design with 3D printing, Australian businesses are tapping into freelance talent to innovate and grow.”

Short form video skills driving freelance income growth

As the cost of living continues to rise, more Australians are turning to side hustles to monetise their skills and supplement their incomes, with a particular focus on short-form video content creation.  turning to freelancing to supplement their incomes. Fiverr’s Index shows significant growth in freelance categories, particularly in short form video skills.

• YouTube Channel Creation and Setup – +926% growth | Earning range: $150 – $300 per project
• Short Form Video Editor – +97% growth | Earning range: $125 – $200 per project

Fiverr’s data demonstrates that, despite economic challenges, Australians are leveraging their skills to not only sustain but grow their income streams.

For a detailed breakdown of global trends, Fiverr’s 2024 Fall Business Trends Index also includes insights from the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, and more.

New data released this week by credit bureau illion, an Experian company, as part of its Commercial Risk Barometer, reveals that business failure risk has continued to improve over the last quarter (August – October 2024). This improvement is not uniform across industries and regions; for example, construction recovers, however, with some still deteriorating.

Construction industry turns corner

Most notably, the Construction industry has improved, where business failure risk was down 0.2% in the September quarter, suggesting that more favourable trading conditions are beginning to appear in what has been a long period of economic fragility for the sector.

“illion’s data showed that trading growth in this sector is now outpacing inflation, which may finally translate into more stable cash flows and fewer construction businesses in financial stress,” said Barrett Hasseldine, illion’s Head of Modelling.

illion’s data showed the Construction sector’s annual growth significantly outpaced inflation, rising by more than 10% year on year. Rising trade activity from higher consumption contributed to this growth, suggesting that businesses are beginning to see more positive cash flows again.

Improvement in the failure risk of construction businesses may be attributed to better servicing of invoice payments, reducing the risk of insolvencies.

“From the data, we are seeing a 6% improvement in the time taken to pay invoices, and this is also coinciding with greater trading activity,” Barrett added. We therefore believe that the Construction sector may now be operating with more stable and sustainable cash flows, which is great news. Hopefully this translates into lower insolvency rates through 2025, contingent on the state of the broader economy.

“Although a small percentage of construction businesses are still struggling to meet their financial obligations, the majority are doing better than they were.”

Other sectors a mixed bag

In other sectors, Mining and Wholesale trade have also continued to go from strength to strength, each now being more than 40% lower risk than the national average. Growth in the Mining sector rose a huge 16% year-on-year, where ‘wholesale trade’ improved a very respectable 12%.

“The Mining sector, together with Agriculture, have contributed to business failure risk in regional Australia being lower than metro Australia,” Barrett added.

However, illion’s data did show that other sectors are of concern. The Utility sector has deteriorated somewhat, with illion’s analysis showing that its failure risk rose by 1.4% in the September quarter, due in part to a 10% reduction in consumer spending and the payment of trade invoices taking 5% longer.

“The lower consumer spending may simply be due to lower energy tariffs, but if consumption were to fall beyond normal seasonal variations, the failure risk of Utility businesses could rise in 2025; especially as overdue invoices are already on the rise in this sector.” Barrett added. “Any indication of further deterioration would therefore need to be closely monitored.”

illion’s Commercial Risk Barometer highlighted that sectors such as the Food Services industry also continue to struggle, with the business failure risk remaining 40% higher than the national average.

The data showed that although the sector has experienced a 10% rise in consumer spending over the September quarter, this has made little impact, with the sector also seeing a 20% rise in the time taken to pay late invoices. This has gone from 16 days on average in June 2024, to 19 days in Sept 2024. “While it might not sound a lot, it makes a big difference – in addition, the sector has also seen a 1% rise in failure risk over Q3,” said Barrett.

“While higher spending is a promising sign of business activity, the challenges that the Food Services sector faces with invoice payments suggests that a proportion of its businesses may find a difficult road ahead.”

Overall, illion’s data shows that some industries are seeing a rise in business activity while others are delaying payment of overdue invoices. The risk of Food Services, Transport and Utility companies may be of particular concern in 2025, therefore requiring particularly close monitoring. Mining, Professional Services and Agriculture may continue to offer better opportunities for investment and lending, with Construction also possibly eyeing a recovery.

Source: illion Commercial Stress Barometer, October 2024

Regional Australia winning, while metro is dragging

Geographically, businesses in metropolitan Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide have the highest risk of business failure, currently around 7% higher than the national average. This may be largely because of higher living costs and stressed budgets impacting on household consumption.

Conversely, businesses in regional Australia and in metropolitan centres, whose growth is influenced by regional and rural activity, appear to be faring better.

“For example, when compared to the national average, businesses in metro QLD and WA have 10% and 13% lower than average failure risk, while regional WA, SA, and QLD have 20%, 15%, and 10% lower than average failure risk,” Barrett added. “Even businesses in regional NSW and VIC are faring better than the national average.

“This lower risk is directly related to regional Australia’s relationship with the mining and agricultural sectors – these being 45% and 30% lower risk when compared to the average over all sectors.”

More promising times may lie ahead for some business sectors, and Australia might be beginning to turn the economic corner in terms of construction activity, although this is qualified optimism, as business confidence still appears to be erratic and metro services businesses still showing some signs of stress. illion continues to monitor closely.

Source: illion Commercial Stress Barometer, October 2024