Retailbiz

2 weeks ago | retailbiz.com.au | Celene Ignacio

Woolworths has secured clearance from the consumer watchdog for its proposed acquisition of food manufacturer Beak and Johnston Holdings Pty Ltd. Currently, Woolworths owns a 23 per cent interest in Beak and Johnston’s subsidiary B&J City Kitchen Pty Ltd. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said that based on its investigation, the acquisition is less likely to significantly lessen competition as rival retailers will still have options for sourcing quality ready meals.

2 weeks ago | retailbiz.com.au | Celene Ignacio

Tool Kit Depot has opened its 17th store nationwide—and its first in New South Wales—at Tighes Hill. A grand opening celebration is scheduled on April 11 and 12, with special pricing and cashback offers for customers. The store offers a comprehensive range of power tools, automotive tooling, construction, electrical, plumbing and outdoor power equipment. “TKD Tighes Hill marks a significant milestone for the local community and region,” Tim Cockayne, General Manager at Tool Kit Depot, said.

2 weeks ago | retailbiz.com.au | Celene Ignacio

Guzman y Gomez’s network sales increased in the fiscal third quarter on the back of the opening of three new restaurants in Australia and two in the US during the period. The Mexican fast food chain’s network sales rose 23.6 per cent year over year to $289.5 million with Australia sales growing 23 per cent to $267.6 million. Singapore sales climbed 33.9 per cent to $16.6 million while Japan sales soared 23.5 per cent to $2.1 million. US sales surged 23.1 per cent to $3.2 million.

2 weeks ago | retailbiz.com.au | Celene Ignacio

Retailers expressed concern over the Opposition’s proposal to limit international students and increase visa costs, warning it could worsen workforce shortages across the sector. “International students play a critical role in supporting part-time and casual roles, which are the backbone of dynamic trading environments like retail stores and restaurants,” Fleur Brown, Chief Industry Affairs Officer of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said.

2 weeks ago | retailbiz.com.au | Celene Ignacio

Designerex has resumed trading after entering administration last March. “We are now actively working to re-capitalise the business and move forward in a way that best serves you, our valued customers,” Designerex said in a statement posted on its website.