Recognising the need for better integration of online retail and bricks-and-mortar, retail industry groups the National Retail Association (NRA) and NORA, a business network connecting and supporting online retailers, have formed a partnership.
In a first for the industry, the two organisations will be working together to support retailers in a rapidly changing environment, whether they operate online, instore or both.
NRA CEO Dominique Lamb says that online and instore are no longer exclusive and retailers need all the help they can get to better understand and move with the changes.
“The opportunities of online retail mean that traditional bricks and mortar retailers must increasingly embrace online shopping to fully service their customers and meet market demand,” she says.
“At the same time, many young e-tailers who find success are seeking to move to an instore service offering, and are encountering for the first time many of the challenges of conducting a business in a physical store.
“Together, NORA and the NRA have the knowledge and experience to help all retailers bridge the divide, and ensure they are reaching every possible customer instore and online.”
NORA executive director Paul Greenberg will become an advisory member of the NRA board from 1 December and he says there will be many benefits for members as a result of the partnership.
“The NORA network will continue to operate, supporting diversity in the Australian retail offering and encouraging generational change and renewal,” he explains.
“NORA members can request pro rata membership of the NRA at no charge, while also remaining a part of the NORA network. This will give members access to the industry-leading services and advice provided by the NRA in human resources, rostering, award compliance, leasing and tenancy, and training.
“NRA members will in turn have access to the skills and knowledge that has helped NORA’s members improve their business performance, understand the digital marketplace and engage with one another in the new retail ecosystem.
“Put simply, the NRA and NORA are better together, and all Australian retailers stand to benefit.”
By Marion Gerritsen
