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EDITOR’S LETTER 8 CONVENIENCE WORLD SEP/OCT, 2020 EDITOR’S SLETTER pring is here and with the warmer weather, a strong and hopeful outlook for the remainder of 2020 and beyond. Hope for a vaccine, a lift on lockdown restrictions, the reopening of state borders and of the country, return to life and a renewed sense of normal without that dreaded ‘Groundhog Day’ feeling. In the downturn, we’ve seen our retail and convenience markets quickly adapt to and overcome a host of challenges that could possibly hit. Retailers and suppliers have continuously stepped up to the plate to deliver agile services and solutions, businesses have accelerated or pivoted their plans to keep up with demand, to innovate in response to new consumer trends, and fill a gap in the market, all in the face of keeping consumers engaged, safe and comfortable during such an uncertain time. And we’ll continue to see such efforts as our sectors work tirelessly to keep the market going and thriving. In light of the challenges faced across most sectors and fronts, it’s important to keep looking out for and checking up on your colleagues and friends. There are support packages and funding for business assistance, as well as numerous services and resources for guidance to help you get through. This issue is packed with some thought-provoking reads that will keep you on top of trends and inspire your own businesses. NightOwl CEO Adam Adams talks to Convenience World about the trends driving the convenience sector and the NightOwl business, challenges in the market, and support for the community and its customers. Evie Networks CEO Chris Mills talks to Convenience World about the state of electric vehicles in Australia, the challenges of the market and the opportunities for growth. Convenience World has partnered with Australia’s retail bodies and associations to help navigate the current climate and keep abreast of the industry changes. National Retail Association discusses the health and wellbeing of retail workers. Franchise Council of Australia offers an insight into rethinking business in a post- Covid market. Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman says it’s time for small businesses to take stock of their financial position now and to plan ahead. And Australian Lottery and Newsagents Association drives awareness of local community newsagencies. In response to the changing nature of the convenience sector, we are proud to continue to grow and expand the scope of Convenience World’s content and readership, introducing the foodservice sector in partnership with FoodService Australia, and presenting the latest trends and insights, as well as the café convenience sector in partnership with WKSHOP and Paradox Coffee Roasters, and presenting the latest trends and insights on specialty coffee, traceability, and sustainability among the various topics. We hope you enjoy this issue of Convenience World magazine. We look forward to your feedback so feel free to write in. Lorna Gloria Lorna Gloria Guest Editor