Retailer confidence rebounds, but weak sales and BNPL costs keep pressure on

RNZ (Radio New Zealand)State / PublicCenter16 hr. ago

Retail confidence has improved in New Zealand, with 69% of retailers expressing confidence in surviving the next year, up from 61% in the previous quarter. However, weak sales growth of 0.4% year-on-year and rising costs associated with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services continue to challenge the retail sector. While BNPL usage has expanded, with nearly half of retailers offering the service, concerns remain over high fees—around 6% compared to 2–3.5% for credit cards. Retailers are divided on whether these costs justify the benefits, and there are ongoing debates about who should bear the responsibility for affordability checks.

Bias read (Center): The article presents balanced reporting on the retail sector's challenges without overtly favoring either political ideologies. It discusses economic factors like fuel prices, inflation, and regulatory issues such as the BNPL surcharge ban, but does not take a clear stance on political solutions or党