MGA Independent Businesses Australia has announced the appointment of Martin Stirling as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Mr Stirling has been part of MGA Independent Businesses Australia’s (MGA) leadership team for the past 2.5 years, serving as Director of Legal Services. During this time, he has led the organisation’s industrial relations and legal policy agenda, championing reforms to benefit the independent retail sector.
“Martin has the trust of our members and the respect of policymakers and industry stakeholders,” said MGA President Grant Hinchcliffe.
“His understanding of the regulatory and commercial environment, and his passion for representing independent businesses, made him the clear choice to lead MGA into the future.”
Prior to joining MGA, Mr Stirling held senior legal and regulatory roles across both private, government and not-for-profit sectors.
“Independent retailers are essential to the economic and social fabric of our communities,” said Mr Stirling.
“I’m honoured to be entrusted with this role and will continue working closely with our members, government, and industry to ensure independent businesses remain strong, competitive and heard.”
Mr Stirling succeeds outgoing CEO David Inall who led MGA through a period of strategic growth and expanded advocacy efforts.
“The MGA Board thanks David for his contribution.”
Mr Martin will commence his new role as CEO on 1 July 2025.
About MGAIBA
MGA Independent Businesses Australia (MGA) is a national industry association representing thousands of independent grocery and liquor retail businesses across all States and Territories of Australia. MGA has been representing family-owned independent retail businesses since 1898. Its members range from small to medium and large in size and account for tens of billions of dollars in retail sales and collectively employ more than a hundred thousand people. MGA’s members are typically smaller in scale than the established large chains. In addition to trading under independent local brands, many MGA members in Victoria trade under various well known and respected banners including IGA, FoodWorks, SPAR, Foodland, Friendly Grocer, IGA Xpress, Cellarbrations, The Bottle O, Duncans, and Local Liquor.
