MGA Independent Retailer Magazine - March 2021- Issue 2 by MGA Independent Businesses Australia

Issue

MARCH 2021

Dean White Commemorative Golf Day 77th MGA GALA GOLF DAY | PAGE 16 YOUR INDUSTRY NEWS PROVIDED BY MGA INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

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OUR MISSION The mission of MGA Independent Retailers is to deliver the best possible industry specific business support services to independent grocery, liquor, hardware and associate store members.

MGA NATIONAL SUPPORT OFFICE Suite 5, 1 Milton Parade, Malvern, Victoria, 3144 P: 03 9824 4111 • F: 03 9824 4022 admin@mga.asn.au • www.mga.asn.au Freecall: 1800 888 479

RETAILER DIRECTORS Debbie Smith (President): Queensland Grant Hinchcliffe (Vice President): Tasmania Graeme Gough: New South Wales Ripple Parehk: New South Wales Ross Anile: Western Australia Carmel Goldsmith: New South Wales Chris dos Santos: South Australia Lincoln Wymer: Victoria Jeff Harper: Victoria

MGA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Contents 5

CEO welcome

A review of leave entitlements in light of the Pandemic

8 The “jab” – is it a reasonable and lawful direction? 10 Handle workplace bullying and harassment promptly 12 Retail Award offers small businesses much-needed flexibility: Ombudsman 13 MGA TMA warmly welcomes Bruce Bilson as new Ombudsman 14 Victoria’s snap 5 day lockdown in February 14 Victorian Government Support for businesses impacted by the 5-day lockdown 15 Grow your business with help from the JobMaker Hiring Credit 16 Dean White Memorial Golf Day 18 ACT: Single-use plastic ban update 19 A ‘Sustainable Supermarkets’ case study: Renaissance Supermarket 20 NSW EPA Bin Trim program update 21 The NSW Bin Trim Advantage 22 Social enterprise wine exclusive to Independents 23 eftpos unveils plans for low cost national QR code payments network rollout

Jos de Bruin 03 9824 4111 E: jos.debruin@mga.asn.au

24 Foodland launches mighty south australian campaign

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP & MEDIA SALES

28 Get close and personal to Personal Protection Equipment

Mark Paladino 0417 264 331 E: mark.paladino@mga.asn.au

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Cindi Damian E: cindi@mga.asn.au

25 NSW CDS retailer temporary assistance package to be extended 27 Annual Liquor Licence Fee 30 MGA Industry Training courses on offer 31 An EXPO like no other 32 General Insurance Market Update 33 Proudly Australian Made & Owned and market leader in Every Day Multipacks* 33 Mental Health in the Workplace- why it’s important 34 Wolf Blass launches ‘Chase the Finals’ promotion with brodie grundy as campaign ambassador 37 Original Aussie FinTech eftpos unveils fresh new brand logo as it quickly scales in mobile and eCommerce

www.linkedin.com/company/ mga-independent-retailers www.twitter.com/ MasterGrocers

Front Cover: Players in the Dean White Commemorative Golf Day, jubilant on the final tee at Greenacres Golf Club in Kew, Victoria.

MGA Corporate Partners DIAMOND

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

ASSOCIATE

WAREHOUSE AND BRAND PARTNERS

tasmanian independent retailers

CEO REPORT

CEO Welcome It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the first digital edition of MGA’s Independent Retailer Magazine for 2021. The Australian economy has picked up significantly since the start of 2021, given the near eradication of the COVID–19 disease from all Australian states and territories. Congratulations to all jurisdictions for putting settings in place to restrict public movement and the subsequent spreading of COVID-19.

The model state for handling these COVID-19 outbreaks and “learning to live” with this insidious virus is NSW. Unlike some other states, the NSW Government trusts its testing systems and the data it collects to make sound and measured decisions to ‘lockdown’ certain parts of the state, on an as needs basis. As some states have done, activating a full state lockdown when small COVID outbreaks have occurred in only a small part of the state has proven to be a “sledgehammer” approach which damages small business, dampens confidence, certainty and exacerbates the risk of mental health break downs, particularly in the communities that are not in any way at risk of the COVID-19 virus being spread. JobKeeper is soon going to finish, so we need to keep businesses and borders open as we work our way out of this once in a lifetime Pandemic situation. MGA is working with Governments to help prolong as much support as possible for businesses in need. MGA believes financial and other support will be available to those in need on a targeted basis from 1st April. Federal Parliament resumed and met in Canberra in February, with the biggest topic being industrial relations and, specifically, the IR Omnibus Bill. MGA, together with COSBOA, was a member of Attorney General Christian Porters IR Reform Working Groups for most of 2020. The many hundreds of hours of meetings, consultations and suggestions have culminated into an Omnibus Bill being developed and put before the Federal Parliament by Christian Porter that will enable more workforce flexibility, lessen complexity to create more jobs and will offer current staff more hours of work which is essential to our economic recovery from the pandemic MGA and COSBOA, together with the ACTU, SDA and AWU, came together in late February to develop a joint application to the FWC to insert a Part-Time Flexibility

schedule in the General Retail Award. Being able to offer current employees more hours at the ordinary rate of pay and replacing casual staff with permanent part-timers is seen by MGA members and small businesses as a clear and present need. Currently, the lack of permanent part-time flexibility capability has proven to be the single biggest inhibitor for employers to employ new staff and offer additional hours of work. Members have no doubt seen the barrage of news, in all forms of media, about the Australian COVID-19 Vaccine roll out which commenced in early March. The different global pharmaceutical companies producing the vaccine have been in the spotlight and, of course, the controversy surrounding some brands and their effectiveness. MGA, on previous occasions, has tried to keep members informed as to what to do in the workplace for staff when the vaccine becomes available. Please see the magazine article on page 8, The “jab” - is it a reasonable and lawful direction. There is a great deal of ambiguity surrounding the need for staff to be vaccinated. The federal government has stated the COVID-19 vaccine is voluntary. This position has left employers wondering what they should do given workplace health and safety laws and the employers obligation to strive for a safe workplace. We will watch with great interest as this matter unfolds in the coming weeks and months. Until the next edition of this magazine – stay safe, trade well and contact MGA should you require any back of house assistance.

Jos de Bruin CEO MGA Independent Retailers

LEGAL AND IR

NATIONAL

A review of leave entitlements in light of the Pandemic Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, business owners have been left wondering how to deal with various issues in the workplace. One of those issues surrounds the leave entitlements owed to employees when they are affected by COVID-19. We will first consider the two main types of leave employees are entitled to, being annual leave and sick leave. Annual Leave All full time and part-time employees are entitled to paid annual leave. Annual leave accrues throughout the year and continues accruing in subsequent years. Full-time employees accrue 4 weeks per annum, whereas part-time employees accrue the equivalent on a pro-rata basis. Each Award provides for an annual leave loading to be paid in addition to the annual leave payments made to an employee. Clause 28.3 of the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (“the GRIA”) states that all employees covered by the Award will receive an annual leave loading of 17.5%. Once an employee’s employment comes to an end, any unused annual leave must be paid to the employee. Employees are also permitted to take unpaid annual leave in the event that their employer agrees. Personal Leave Personal leave is an ‘umbrella term’ and comprises both sick leave and carer’s leave. Sick leave applies when an employee is unable to work due to a personal illness or injury. Carer’s leave can be utilised when an employee must care for someone in their immediate family or household. A household member includes any person who lives with the employee. Similarly to annual leave, all full-time and part-time employees are entitled to 10 days of paid personal leave each year which accrues progressively and continues to accrue in subsequent years. Upon an employee’s employment ending with the employer, they are not entitled to be paid their unused personal leave. All employees, including casual employees are entitled to 2 days of mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

unpaid carer’s leave. However, fulltime and part-time employees can only utilise unpaid carer’s leave if they have no accrued personal leave. For completeness, casual employees are not entitled to be paid for any personal leave. In the event that an employee takes personal leave, an employer can request evidence (such as a statutory declaration or a medical certificate) subject to any of the employer’s internal policies or documents. If an employee fails, refuses, or neglects to provide the requested evidence, they are not entitled to paid personal leave. Unpaid Pandemic Leave and Annual Leave at half pay

How does this apply in practice? As mentioned, the pandemic has added an additional layer of confusion in determining what leave entitlements may apply to an employee if they are affected by COVID-19. The pay and leave options regarding quarantine and self-isolation can be summarised as follows.

• Personal leave can be used if a part-

time or full-time employee is sick from COVID-19 and is unable to work;

• Full-time and part-time employees are

entitled to paid carer’s leave if they are required to care for someone in their immediate family or household if they are sick from COVID-19. A household member includes any person that the employee lives with;

On 8 April 2020, the Fair Work Commission added unpaid pandemic leave and annual leave flexibility to 99 awards, including the GRIA.

• Casual employees are entitled to two

Under the applicable awards, unpaid pandemic leave is immediately available to all employees (including full time, parttime and casual employees), meaning that they do not need to ‘accrue’ this leave.

• If a full-time or part-time employee

Under the GRIA, employees are entitled to take 2 weeks of unpaid leave in the event that they are prevented from working as a result of being required to self-isolate or by measures taken by the government or medical authorities in response to the pandemic (such as an enforceable government direction that restricts non-essential businesses). Employees are also entitled to take their annual leave at half-pay, which essentially doubles their time off work, as long as their employer agrees. If an employer agrees to the employee’s request, it must be documented in writing and be kept on file. It is important to note that employees that are on leave at half pay accumulate annual leave and personal leave as if they were on leave at full pay.

days of unpaid carer’s leave if they need to care for someone in their immediate family or household if they are sick from COVID-19; must self-isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19, but they are not sick, they are not entitled to be paid sick leave;

• Employers have the discretion to allow

full-time and part-time employees to utilise annual leave in any of the abovementioned circumstances.

• All employees (including casual, full-

time and part-time employees) are immediately entitled to two weeks of unpaid pandemic leave under the GRIA if they are prevented from working as a result of being required to self-isolate or by measures taken by the government or medical authorities in response to the pandemic.

If you wish to discuss pay and leave entitlements please contact

MGA’s Legal and Industrial Relations team on

(03) 98324 4111

(option 1)

INDUSTRY NEWS

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LEGAL AND IR

NATIONAL

The “jab” – is it a reasonable and lawful direction? The industrial relations sphere was subjected to complex workplace issues and matters during last year. The hope of putting the issues associated with COVID-19 to rest was conditional on the development of the vaccine. Unfortunately, that view was far from the truth and resulted in more uncertain questions being asked. The current hot topic of debate is whether employers and businesses could mandate their employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in the form of a “reasonable and lawful direction”. The position as it currently stands remains uncertain, particularly due to the lack of federal or state public health laws. As such, the below information is not a legal view of the topic; rather, an opinion to provide Members guidance and allow them to think about their approach to the challenging question. Generally, businesses have a duty of care towards the health and safety of their staff under the relevant state/ territory workplace health and safety legislation, which includes creating a COVID-19 safe environment. Upholding such duty goes a step further and may mitigate the risk of customers contracting COVID-19 when visiting the store. Implementing a compulsory COVID-19 policy may be a reasonable and lawful direction to maintain such health and safety standard. However, the answer is not that simple and requires a holistic approach. For instance, the nature of the business, the role of the employee, and the type of risks associated at the workplace are relevant considerations when determining the reasonableness and lawfulness of such direction. For example, in the retail industry, it may not be as clear cut to mandate the vaccine in comparison to industries where employees work with vulnerable patients, for example, in aged care. Other relevant considerations surrounding the reasonableness and lawfulness of such direction include:

• the invasive nature of the procedure; • whether the vaccination forms part of the employee’s inherent requirements of the role;

• exemptions granted for medical or religious reasons

and whether reasonable adjustments can be made, for example, the possibility of working from home;

• whether an enterprise or other registered agreement already allows for such direction; and

• the availability of other safety means of mitigating the risks of COVID-19, for example, face coverings, social distancing, hand sanitisation, etc.

Even if employers manage to justify the direction, employees may still challenge its validity. If a business chooses to discipline an employee for failing to abide by such direction, the employee may allege that adverse action was taken against them or that they were discriminated against. Alternatively, they may claim that they were unfairly dismissed if the business terminates mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

them or they were forced to resign from their employment due to having no other option. Then again, the employee may pursue a worker’s compensation claim if they suffer from any harmful side effects after being vaccinated. So, in summary, the answer to the question of mandatory vaccines will be for a period of time, based on the circumstances of each individual case. Members who are considering to eventually mandate COVID-19 vaccination in their businesses should consider the below preliminary steps: 1. seek bespoke advice from MGA about the reasonableness and lawfulness of such direction for your specific circumstances; 2. implement a written vaccination policy, ensuring it includes a clear process about how to manage refusals, exemptions, and the like; 3. offer your employees information about the benefits of being vaccinated and the risks of COVID-19; 4. providing the jab at the workplace during paid time for those who wish to be vaccinated as a way of enticing others; and 5. revisit your health and safety procedures, particularly those recently implemented to mitigate the risks associated with COVID-19. Should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the IR and Legal team on 1800 888 479.

R E LOW

B R CA EN

T U GL

E E FFRULL H T G N E R ST

LEGAL AND IR

NATIONAL

Handle workplace bullying and harassment promptly Workplace bullying and harassment remains a serious issue for Australian employers. Safe Work Australia estimates that 20% of workers’ compensation claims for serious mental health conditions are caused by work-related bullying and harassment. It is evident that taking effective steps to prevent and address workplace bullying and harassment can reduce the costly likelihood of employees making workers’ compensation claims, as well as improve employee wellbeing, staff retention and workplace culture and morale. Risks associated with workplace bullying and harassment Permitting and mismanaging bullying and harassment in the workplace carries significant risks for Members. Some examples of the inherent risks include:

• General protections claims for

adverse action in not investigating or dealing with allegations of bullying or harassment;

• General protections claims for

adverse action in response to exercising a workplace right to raise issues relating to bullying or harassment;

• General protections claims for ongoing discrimination due to protected characteristics;

• Unfair dismissal claims if an

employee is forced to resign due to the impact of bullying or harassment;

• Applications for stop bullying orders;

• Breach of WHS/OHS legislation; • Workers’ compensation claims; • Breach of anti-discrimination legislation; and

• Adverse effects on workplace productivity and profitability.

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Out of hours conduct Members may still face the risks outlined above for out of hours employee conduct that constitute bullying or harassment. Workplace bullying and harassment need not occur at work – Members are still responsible for reducing or eliminating risks arising out of such conduct if they arise out of, or is connected to work or work activities.

It is important to note that reasonable management action taken in a reasonable manner is also not considered bullying. Reasonable management actions include performance management, allocation of work, promotion decisions and disciplinary action. However, it is important to ensure that a procedurally fair and reasonable process is followed consistently when applying such management actions.

What is workplace bullying?

What is harassment?

Workplace bullying can take many forms and manifest itself overtly or covertly. Workplace bullying is defined as repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed at a worker, or a group of workers, that creates a risk to their health and safety.

Workplace harassment is unwelcome behaviour that causes offence, intimidation, embarrassment or humiliation. This also includes sexual harassment.

Because ‘repeated behaviour’ is required, a one-off instance is insufficient to constitute bullying – however, this does not prevent the incident from being considered harassment. Common examples of workplace bullying include spreading misinformation or gossip, exclusion and marginalisation, using inappropriate language, engaging in unreasonable or excessive criticism and overloading or underloading a worker with work.

Common examples of workplace harassment include making inappropriate comments and jokes, engaging in unwanted suggestive behaviour or physical intimacy, and assault. Reducing risks There are proactive steps that our Members can take to prevent instances of bullying and harassment in their workplace: • Implementing risk management processes;

• Preparing comprehensive

LEGAL AND IR

NATIONAL

workplace policies and procedures addressing bullying and harassment;

• Ensuring employees undergo

training that reinforces expectations surrounding bullying and harassment; and

• Promoting a work culture that does not tolerate bullying and harassment.

Handling bullying and harassment Although prevention is better than cure, Members are reminded that the MGA TMA Legal Team can assist with tailored advice on handling employee allegations of bullying or harassment. Should an employee make a formal complaint of bullying and harassment, a thorough investigation into the allegations should take place before the Member initiates any outcome. MGA TMA held a seminar on “Bullying & Harassment in the Workplace” in early March. Visit our website www. mga.asn.au/webinars-2/bullyingand-harrasment-in-the-workplace to access the webinar recording and presentation notes.

Visit www.mga.asn.au for webinar recording and notes

Should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the IR and Legal team on 1800 888 479.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

NATIONAL

Retail Award offers small businesses much-needed flexibility: Ombudsman The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell has welcomed an agreement between the SDA and Master Grocers Australia to make improvements to the Retail Award, which will help small businesses in their recovery efforts.

The changes, supported by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), allow retail businesses and workers to agree to increased hours for part-time workers that provide flexibility to businesses and security for part-time staff. The proposed reforms have been submitted to the Fair Work Commission for approval, including the provision of access to arbitration by both employers and workers. Ms Carnell says the agreed changes to the Retail Award are in line with the perma-flexi classification policy longheld by her office. “This agreement represents significant progress for small businesses that have been crying out for greater flexibility as they recover from the COVID crisis,” Ms Carnell says. “The agreed changes to the award are proof that better outcomes for business and workers are possible when parties approach the negotiating table with an open mind. “Under the current system, employers are more likely to hire a casual worker when a staff member takes leave because giving existing staff additional hours comes at a far greater cost. “If approved, the revised award allows small businesses to offer more hours to their part-time employees, while also giving those existing staff members the opportunity to work more hours if they choose.

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

Kate Carnell AO Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

“Importantly, both small businesses and workers will have enforceable rights under the award, with access to arbitration through the Fair Work Commission. “It is agreements like this that will give small businesses the confidence and flexibility they need to get back on their feet as part of the national economic recovery.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL

MGA TMA warmly welcomes Bruce Bilson as new Ombudsman Early in March 2021, Australia’s inaugural Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Kate Carnell, stepped down from her role after five incredible years at the frontline in Canberra fighting for the betterment of small businesses around Australia.

Kate has been an enormous support to MGA TMA on many fronts, even since before she became Ombudsman. Kate was instrumental in assisting MGA TMA with the significant achievement of changing Competition Law to stamp out the misuse of market power by the large corporate giants, with the inclusion of the “effect test” in section 46 of the Competition and Consumer Act. We wish Kate well in her next endeavours, and we will be sure that Kate is never too far from MGA TMA. Thank you, Kate! On another note, MGA TMA wishes to warmly welcome and congratulate Bruce Billson upon being appointed the new Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) for the next five years. MGA TMA has for many years worked with Bruce, particularly in Bruce’s last role in the Federal Parliament as the Minister for Small Business. Bruce has often been referred to as the “Best” ever Small Business Minister, to have represented small and family businesses in the Federal Parliament. Bruce was able to elevate his Ministerial position into the cabinet, which gave small business a very important voice at the decisionmaking table.

Newly appointed ASBFEO Bruce Billson, with outgoing ASBFEO, Kate Carnell.

Having run his own family business for a number of years in Mornington, Victoria, Bruce understands the day-to-day matters and issues Small Business owners face. Bruce’s passion for Small Business runs very deep, and we are sure it will be evident in his new Ombudsman role. Bruce was also the presiding Minister who singlehandedly lobbied his cabinet to support the introduction of the “effects test” into section 46 of Competition and Consumer Law. Together with the ACCC Chairman was able to broker an enforceable undertaking between the ACCC

and Coles and Woolworths to stop shopper dockets from exceeding 4 cents per litre. We wish Bruce well in his new role, and we sincerely look forward to working with Bruce over the next five years.

Photo source ASBFEO Govt website video

INDUSTRY NEWS

VICTORIA

Victoria’s snap 5 day lockdown in February The 5 day “Circuit Breaker” lockdown imposed by the Andrews Government commencing just prior to the Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year weekend in February this year was heartbreaking for Victorian small businesses. Regrettably, despite all the overtures and offers of help, over a very long period of time, from small business organisations to the Victorian Government to consult and work together on potentially devastating decisions such as this five-day lockdown, there was no engagement with the Victorian Government at all. It is impossible for small businesses to plan for sudden lockdowns, and the timing of this one – coinciding with Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year celebrations - could not be worse. Weddings, functions, gatherings, restaurants, bars, bistros, and so the list goes on were devasted to learn they had to cancel bookings immediately and shut down their businesses from Friday 13th February at 11.59 pm. This

is after they had ordered and had on hand fresh food, flowers and other perishables to last the entire dual festive weekend. MGA TMA has advocated for all distressed small businesses that the Victorian Government needs to urgently compensate small businesses forced to close their doors on what was to be one of their busiest weekends of the year. The compensation should also cover all other costs associated with running a business, including staff wages and rent. Victoria’s small business sector deserves to be supported – its critical to their survival.

Victorian Government Support for businesses impacted by the 5-day lockdown On 23rd February, the Victorian Government did announce a sweet of financial support packages for small businesses affected by the five day lockdown. Unfortunately, many businesses missed out. The $143 million Circuit Breaker Support Package was expected to help more than 50,000 Victorian businesses – including restaurants, florists, confectioners, hairdressers, accommodation providers, musicians and performers –

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

who incurred costs such as the loss of perishable goods, cancelled gigs and foregone trading. The package contains four initiatives targeted at businesses, including small and micro-businesses. More information about the Circuit Breaker Support Package is available at business.vic.gov.au

INDUSTRY EVENTS

NATIONAL

Grow your business with help from the JobMaker Hiring Credit MGA TMA Members, please be aware that businesses that are creating new positions and employing young Australians may be eligible for a new wage subsidy called the JobMaker Hiring Credit, paid by the ATO. Employers that are increasing both their headcount and payroll can receive up to $10,400 per year for each new job they fill with an eligible employee aged 16 to 29 years and $5,200 for each eligible employee aged 30 to 35 years. To be eligible new employees must:

• be 16 to 35 years old • commence employment between 7 October 2020 and 6 October 2021

• work or be paid for an average of at least 20 paid hours per week during the reporting period, and

• have received the JobSeeker Payment, Parenting

Payment or Youth Allowance (except if they are receiving the allowance because they are undertaking full-time study or are a new apprentice) for at least 28 consecutive days (or two fortnights) in the 84 days (or six fortnights) prior to starting employment.

Deputy Commissioner James O’Halloran said that employers do not need to satisfy a turnover test for their business and the three-step process to access the credit is straightforward. “The first step for a business is to register. From here, the second step is to nominate their new employees, and the third is to make a claim. “I also encourage employers who need advice to contact their tax or BAS agent or check out the resources available on our website,” said Mr O’Halloran. To find out more, go to www.ato.gov.au/ jobmakerhiringcredit. You can also use the JobMaker Hiring Credit payment estimator to calculate the payment you could receive. If members require any further information, please call MGA TMA on 1800 888 479

INDUSTRY EVENTS

VICTORIA

Dean White Memorial Golf Day This year’s MGA GALA Golf Day was a celebration of one of the liquor industries’ true gentlemen, Dean White, who tragically and suddenly passed away late in 2020. The event held in tribute to Dean was to help raise funds to support his wife Mel and their three young children Aria, Asha and Ayla. The Ambrose event was held on Friday 12 March at the very picturesque Greenacres Golf Club in Kew. Golfers were treated to a spectacularly groomed and prepared course and played in what was perfect Autumn weather, starting with a crisp cool morning, and evolving into a warm and sunny 26-degree day.

I would also like to extend a big thank you to the organizing committee for putting together such a terrific event. Thanks go to, Michael Potenza Brown Family Wines, Simon Archer TWE, Peter Wagner ALM and Mark Paladino MGA TMA and finally, the Greenacres team, who left no stone unturned to accommodate all our requests.

In the competitive trade environment that we work in, it was fantastic to see the industry pulling together to support this event and one of our own—a total of ninetyfour players registering for golf and another eleven coming to the after-game luncheon.

Congratulations to the winning teams:

A big thank you to the following companies for not only registering playing teams but also for their generous raffle prize donations: TWE, ALM, Adroit Insurance, Reddrop Group, Brown Forman, LMG, Pernod-Ricard, FoodWorks (AUR), Brown Family Wines, FoodWorks East Ivanhoe, Ritchie’s Group, IBA, CUB, Supercart, Ampersand Projects, De Bortoli Wines, PMI, DrinkWise, Lion, Lower Plenty Hotel, Samuel Smith and Son, CCA, South Trade International, Bacardi Martini, Mighty Craft, William Grants, Beam Suntory, and MGA.

2nd Place with a Handicap 9.375 Nett 54.62 – AUR (FoodWorks) Team Kim Satterthwaite (18), Rick Wight (21), Tim Heath (18), Brad Slater (18)

The winning team with a Handicap 9 Nett 53 –Treasury Wines Team One James Noonan (18), Trent Touhy (18), Damien Kaehler (18), Simon Archer (18)

3rd Place with a handicap 9 Nett 55 – IBA Committee Team Simon Nardi (18), Paul Marinelli (18), Ben Sprake (18), Evan Hardy (18) Winners Nearest the Pin 9th Hole – Darren Campbell 11th Hole – Damien Kaehler

A special mention must be attributed to Treasury Wines and Simon Archer for providing two bottles of 2013 Penfolds Grange as prizes for the ‘Grange on the Range’ Balloon Raffle. The after-game luncheon was abuzz with activity. As for most participants, it was the first social function held postCOVID-19 restrictions. This set the scene for everyone to dig deep and contribute to this worthy cause by buying up raffle tickets for the mass of prizes made available. The long-awaited bursting of the ‘Grange on the Range’ balloons was won by Peter Steinfort – De Bortoli Wines and Jamie Edwards – Ampersand Projects. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, the day raised more than $18 k for Dean’s young family. mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

Team L-R Simon Hill, Luke Delaney, Tom L’Hullier and Bernie Maloney

Members enjoy lunch & presentations at Greenacres Golf Club Kew

INDUSTRY EVENTS

VICTORIA

Ist Place Winners TWE Team L-R Jos de Bruin & Jan Allatt award trophy to Trent Touhy, Simon Archer, Damian Kaehler and James Noonan

2nd Place FoodWorks Team L-R Jos de Bruin & Jan Allatt award trophy to Brad Slater, Tim Heath, Kim Satterthwaite & (absent from photo) Rick Wight

Brown Family Wines GM Sales Shane Bullus

Grange on the Range Winners L-R Peter Steinfort- De Bortoli, and Jamie Edwards- Ampersand Projects

L-R Standing: Michael Ritoli, Brian Phan, Adam Forsyth, Steve Amiet. L-R Seated: Perry Pulitano, Mick McDonald, Andrew Medland, Craig Love.

Trophy and Major Prize Table

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL CAPITAL TERRITORY AUSTRALIAN

ACT: Single-use plastic ban update The ACT Government has provided an update on the commitment to phase out single-use plastic in the ACT. In December 2019, the ACT Government indicated its intention to phase out certain single-use plastics in the ACT.

The ACT Government is committed to supporting businesses and the community to transition to the new requirements.

On 31 March 2021, the ACT Legislative Assembly is expected to pass the Plastic Reduction Bill 2020, which will give effect to phasing out certain plastic products.

It is important MGA Members begin to:

From 1 July 2021, the following three items will be prohibited from sale, supply or distribution in the ACT: 1. Single-use plastic cutlery (including bioplastic and PLA) 2. Single-use plastic drink stirrers (including bioplastic and PLA) 3. Expanded polystyrene takeaway food and beverage containers.

• check your inventory of single-use plastic cutlery and stirrers (including bioplastic products) and expanded polystyrene food and beverage containers

• STOP ordering these items (be careful with cutlery and stirrers as many products are promoted as ‘green’ but contain bioplastic such as PLA, which are on the list of materials to be banned)

• use up any existing stock before 1 July 2021. For further information on the ACT’s phase-out of singleuse plastics and to view the Bill, please visit yoursay.act. gov.au and act.gov.au/single-use-plastics.

DEAN WHITE COMMEMORATIVE MGA GALA Golf Day aknowledgement:

Special thanks to the following companies for their generous donations contributing to the resounding success of the Dean White Commemorative Golf Day.

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CORPORATE PARTNER ADVERTISING

NATIONAL VICTORIA

A ‘Sustainable Supermarkets’ case study: Renaissance Supermarket Renaissance Supermarket is a shining example of what a ‘Sustainable Supermarket’ is all about. The Challenge: Organic waste from both Renaissance IGA locations was primarily unsaleable produce, deli and bakery waste. Additionally, any food item past its best before date could no longer be sold. The waste was being disposed of in the traditional manner, placed into general waste bins and then transported via trucks to landfill.

The Solution: Renaissance IGA installed an onsite food waste digestor at both locations in August 2019. Compact models were chosen to suit the store operations and were ideally placed in close proximity to their operational areas.

The sustainability benefits; both locations achieved cost reductions in their general waste disposal contracts, cutting the store’s weekly bin collections by half and helped contribute to the owner’s sustainability goals, something they are extremely passionate about.

The Result:

The Facts:

The switch to an onsite organic waste solution was a seamless transition for the two Renaissance IGA stores.

In the first year of operating an organic waste digestor, the two Renaissance IGA stores have:

Testimonial

For information on how to become a ‘Sustainable Supermarket’ please contact: W www.mga.asn.au/sustainability E aces@mga.asn.au P 1300 849 908

“I am passionate about finding a better solution to waste management. Although we are a small business, Renaissance IGA was generating waste in a costly and heavy carbon manor. So, when we were introduced to an onsite organic waste solution, it was the perfect solution that I know existed. Being able to dispose of organic waste in the digestor sustainably has been amazing and a lot more efficient. It works like a human stomach, helping digest all our food waste which has massively reduced the amount of waste we send to landfill. I’m proud to be doing my bit to tackle this issue and would recommend such technology to any business that has organic waste and cares about where it ends up.” Eden Altman, owner of Renaissance IGA Hawthorn.

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NATIONAL NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW EPA Bin Trim program update In 2020 MGA TMA invited our NSW members to participate in the State Government’s Bin Trim program (ROUND 4). We had an outstanding result with more than 130 members signing up for waste assessments. The data from the assessments have provided a platform for our Circular Economy Solutions project (ACES) to help retailers understand their waste streams and provided solutions to reduce waste costs and landfill. Now, these members are all Sustainable Supermarkets working towards zero carbon footprint. The below map represents the waste volume data collected from members who have been assessed to date. They are separated into: Green (<50KG waste per day)

After reaching out to members and sharing information about the program, we were able to encourage more than 130 members to sign up to date. So far, 89 sites have had assessments performed, and a summary of the findings can be seen below.

A summary of waste generated by MGA members in the Sustainable Supermarkets program:

Yellow (51 – 132 KG waste per day) Red (>132 KG per day – reaching as high as 700KG per day). This data has helped us understand that our regional members are having immense trouble minimising waste. It will be a key focus to ensure all members can work together to drive this industry-wide operational change.

+Greenhouse emissions data estimated using Table 45 from The Australian Government’s Department of the Environment and Energy publication, NATIONAL GREENHOUSE ACCOUNTS FACTORS: Australian National Greenhouse Accounts, 2019

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

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NEW SOUTH WALES NATIONAL

The NSW Bin Trim Advantage An annual snapshot of supermarket waste:

Waste Audits are business specific waste assessments:

Could be recycled

• Offer data analyses and collation–

establishing the quantum of waste generated and existing CO2 footprint

• Identify waste reduction opportunities • Identify recycling opportunities • Subsidise solutions to reduce waste going into landfill

• Allow businesses to understand their CO2 Footprint and take ownership of their role in reducing emissions.

As of the 28th February 2021, 89 stores have had their final reports and recommendations provide for action.

Garbage

Recycled Tonnes

Waste Stream % of Total Waste

ORGANICS

1,173.78

4.10

953.46

50%

PLASTIC

450.69

35.52

97.48

21%

PAPER & CARDBOARD

320.48

82.38

2,407.60

17%

ALL OTHER

89.47

200.72

4.01

12%

TOTAL

2,034.42

322.73

3462.55

100%

BREAKDOWN OF WASTE

BREAKDOWN OF RECYCLING

For information on how to become a ‘Sustainable Supermarket’ please contact: W www.mga.asn.au/sustainability E aces@mga.asn.au P 1300 849 908

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NATIONAL

Social enterprise wine exclusive to Independents Have you ever been given a gift so generous that you were stunned? An offering that was more than a token of appreciation, that surpassed expectations so much that you recognised it as a mark of respect, admiration, or compassion? What you witnessed was not just a gift but a munificent gesture. All of the wines in our range have been crafted with munificence in mind by delivering fruit-driven generosity and also by donating 50% of profits to charity. As a social enterprise, munificent wines has made a commitment to donate 50% of pre-tax gross profits to Sisterworks Inc with more than $11,000 having been donated already in just 18 weeks since launch. Through work and entrepreneurship, SisterWorks’ mission is to support women who are refugees,

Bays and Sobah) and boutique wineries (including Atze’s Corner and Down The Rabbit Hole) hand-selected for their quality, sense of place and family roots.

asylum seekers or migrants so they can improve their confidence, mental wellbeing, sense of belonging and economic outlook.

With the recent addition of two new sales reps, Pail & Cooper now cover the vast majority of Victoria and are proud to deal exclusively with independent customers.

The range has not compromised on quality and includes a King Valley Prosecco, Pinot Grigio and a Shiraz with a Victorian Pinot Noir being added in March all at a $15 RRP. All munificent wines are exclusively available to the independent channel and distributed by Pail & Cooper. Pail & Cooper represent a premium range of craft breweries (including Capital, Two

Please contact Owain to arrange a meeting with your local rep on 0428 609 109 or owain@pailandcooper.com.au

BUY ANY SPECIALLY MARKED ICE BREAK AND ENTER AT WWW.ICEBREAK.COM.AU PROMOTION RUNS: MARCH 01 - APRIL 11 2021

Conditions apply, see www.icebreak.com.au. Ends: 11:59pm AEST 11/4/21. Retain receipt/s & photo of unique code. Instant prizes: 930,242 eVouchers for BCF, Rebel or Supercheap Auto (winner’s choice) valued $5 - $500 (see T&Cs). Winners published weekly online. Promoter: Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 56 072 928 879) of 35 Boundary St South Brisbane, QLD 4101. NSW Permit No. TP/00619 ACT Permit No. TP20/01841. SA Permit No. T20/1619

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

INDUSTRY NEWS

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eftpos unveils plans for low cost national QR code payments network rollout Enabling seamless payment experiences across ecommerce, mobile & point of sale eftpos has announced details for a national QR code payments network rollout, which aims to provide Australian consumers and merchants with the better data-rich payments experiences no matter where they choose to shop – online, on their mobile or at the checkout. eftpos aims to have the QR code payments network in trial by mid-year, designed to be low cost and facilitate many value added opportunities for merchants and consumers. It is intended to seamlessly link loyalty, offers, receipts and more, while also driving deeper customer engagement. The national rollout is expected to be completed in 2022. eftpos CEO Stephen Benton said the decision to rollout national eftpos QR code payments network comes at a time when Australians are becoming familiar with QR code technology through daily interactions with COVID19 check ins and increasingly turning to digital shopping. Mr Benton said the rollout was about re-imagining the Australian payment experience, while businesses are looking to new digital innovations to improve efficiency and create better customer experiences. “Digital transactions enabled through the national QR code payments network aim to elevate and enrich the consumer payment experience while driving growth for local businesses,” Mr Benton said. “Initiating secure purchase transactions using a consumers’ preferred digital wallet unlocks a wealth of extra benefits that will transform the way Australians choose to pay.” Mr Benton added as part of eftpos’ digital strategy driving eCommerce competition in Australia, the technology allows merchants to grow their digital sales with low cost QR acceptance using enriched data and integrated customer loyalty

services, by leveraging eftpos’ robust and secure Australian owned network infrastructure. It works by generating unique QR codes containing transaction details that are captured on a consumer’s mobile phone, initiating a secure digital wallet payment that is seamlessly integrated with the merchant’s loyalty service provider. “The QR code payments network will enable local home-grown innovation by connecting numerousAPIs, consumer digital wallets, and supporting technologies on top of the existing eftpos networkrails, providing choice and potential cost savings for local businesses,” Mr Benton said.

About eftpos eftpos is Australia’s debit card system, processing over 2 billion debit card transactions in 2020 worth an average of more than $300 million each day. For more information on eftpos, please visit: www.eftposaustralia.com.au Media inquiries: Warwick Ponder, eftpos, 0408 410 593, WPonder@eftposaustralia. com.au.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

NATIONAL SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Foodland launches Mighty South Australian campaign The new campaign showcases the next generation of Foodland family members from 38 families including South Australian icons like San Remo, Kytons Bakery and Paris Creek Farms. Travelling more than 2,500km across South Australia from Port Lincoln to Pooraka by plane, tuna boat, buggy, tractor, oyster boat and car, KWP! captured the Foodland family stories for a mighty new advertising campaign which launched Sunday March 7, 2021. The campaign comes as South Australia’s largest independent supermarket chain embarks on a massive $251 million expansion program to open 25 new stores, revamp 47 and create 2,500 new jobs over the next five years. Foodland’s new campaign showcases the next generation of Foodland family members from 38 families including South Australian icons like San Remo, Kytons Bakery and Paris Creek Farms. Foodland CEO Franklin dos Santos says they travelled across the width and breadth of South Australia to capture the family of families behind the Foodland family, sharing its proud history of supporting local farmers and producers. “Foodland is part of the fabric of South Australia. We have more stores than any other brand, employ more than 6,000 South Australians and our retailers are the centre of the local community in suburbs and towns around the state,” dos Santos says. “My satisfaction comes from serving my community. We support sovereign manufacturing and jobs in SA and the nation at large.”

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

This campaign sees viewers track the journey of great South Australian food from paddock to store - all the way from the sea to the shelf and from the fields to the fridges says KWP! group creative director Joshua Fanning. “The campaign is a celebration of real people and great food and evidence of the positive role Foodland plays in the economy of South Australia,” Fanning says. The campaign runs across TV, outdoor media including tram, static and digital billboards, bus shelters and bus backs, as well as across Foodland catalogues, at their stores and across social. Foodland’s retailers featured in the campaign:

Anthony Violi Elisabeth Romeo Kleio Portellos Marie Vavaroutsos Michael Rugless

Georgie Rugless Josh Zucco Catrina Violi Jade Martin Hannah Allen-Jordan

Supplier partners featured in the campaign: Pro-Seafoods, Port Lincoln Paris Creek Farms, Paris Creek Meadows Kyton’s Bakery, Edwardstown San Remo, Windsor Gardens HiFresh Lettuce, Virginia Days Eggs, Lower Light SA Potato Co., Mount Barker Nicol Carrots, Penfield Gardens South Australian Produce Market, Pooraka Wheat Farmer, Clare Riverland Oranges, Riverland Lenswood Apples, Lenswood Fleurieu Milk, Myponga Parker’s Strawberries, Pooraka

Click here to read the full story from AdNews>> Click here to view the advertisement>> Source www.adnews.com.au

LIQUOR NEWS

NATIONAL NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW CDS retailer temporary assistance package to be extended More than fifteen months of lobbying the NSW government and forwarding submissions to the NSW EPA has resulted in a significant win for MGA Members. The Minister for Energy & Environment, Matt Kean MP, has announced that the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) Retailer Temporary Assistance Package will be extended until the implementation of the Victorian CDS in 2023.

within the NSW 80-kilometre border zone with the continuance of the CDS Retailer Temporary Assistance Package.

MGA TMA has been in communication with Mr Alex Young, Director CDS at the EPA has confirmed that information regarding the re-activation of payments will be sent to all registered retailers shortly.

This is a great result and will go a long way towards assisting members to sustain competitive prices within their stores and help drive the local economy by keeping shoppers local.

MGA TMA, along with NSW Border Retailer members, have worked hard lobbing NSW Government Ministers, the EPA and the Treasury Department to continue to support affected retailers

C PR ON O S M UM O TI ER O N

The package will be extended based on the current funding levels and be administered by The Environment Protection Authority (EPA), which will include an annual renewal of funding agreements between the EPA and recipients. All recipients will undergo due diligence to identify if they are still

affected and are still compliant with the original terms and conditions of the package.

If you need any further information, please contact the MGA TMA National free call helpline 1800 888 479 or email george.kovits@mga.asn.au

WIN

Endota Spa Gift Cards valued at $250 and treat Mum this Mother’s Day! Purchase any 750ml bottle of La Bohème wine and go online to enter.

ENDS 11 TH APRIL 2021 Terms and conditions apply. For promotional details, visit www.debortoli.com.au/labohemeendotaspa

For further information and point of sale please contact your De Bortoli Area Manager.

Copy of the letter by Matt Kean MP Minister for Energy and Environment to Justin Clancy MP, Member for Albury

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Authentic Kentucky Bourbon & Cola Exclusive to Independent Retailers!

David Hounsome National Sales & Marketing Manager p. +61 424 155 024 Edgemill Group Sales Team: VIC: Andrew Keam - 0410 484 147 VIC: Andrew Scotto - 0451 036 604 KA: Peter Selinger - 0410 484 246 ACT Agent: Travis Moule - 0408 496 154 NSW West Agent: James Sevil - 0458 609 555 NSW North Agent: Scott Dorman - 0458 900 344 QLD: Kylie Milligan - 0404 132 263 North QLD Agent: Michelle Seale - 0448 442 626 SA/WA Agent: Craig Gurney - 0447 806 744 Edgemill Group Pty Ltd ABN 65 120 361 024 37-39 William Angliss Drive Laverton North, Victoria 3026 Contact Details: Phone 03 9982 8700 Fax 03 9982 8799 Email info@edgemill.com.au www.edgemill.com.au

Independents first

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

LIQUOR NEWS

NEW SOUTH WALES NATIONAL

Annual Liquor Licence Fee NSW Liquor, Gaming & Racing have announced that the Annual Liquor Licence Fee (ALLF) cycle will resume in 2021 with an easier paper-free invoicing and payment option. To ensure that your contact details are up to date visit the Service NSW website. Fees will be calculated on 15 March, based on your current licence type and trading hours, with fee notices issued by email in April. Payment is due by 29 May 2021. As part of the OGLR’S sustainability drive, ALLF 2021 will involve less paper with Initial invoices being sent by email only.

A new payment method for your ALLF is through Liquor Licence Manager (LLM). LLM includes PayID which is a secure, instant payment method. It is easy to register and only has a $0.55 charge on all standard transactions. To register for Liquor Licence Manager, visit the Service NSW website.

TRAINING

NATIONAL

Get close and personal to Personal Protection Equipment “Personal Protection Equipment means equipment (including clothing affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects them against one or more risks to their health or safety, and any addition or accessory designed to meet that objective”. Examples of PPE Safety Boots Ear Plugs Face Masks Gloves

Goggles Hard Hats High Visibility Clothing Respirators

The requirement for PPE comes through industry standards, code of practice and government directives. However, organisations must complete a risk and hazard assessment also to identify the need for PPE.

For example, before protective footwear is selected for use in a chemical environment, the corrosive or solvent nature of the chemicals must be known so that the chosen footwear is not made from materials that will be adversely affected.

PPE should only be considered as the last line of defence between a hazard and the worker. Organisations should always address attempts to control workplace risks and hazards first. However, even the strictest controls will not always eliminate all the risks associated with most job tasks.

Level of protection required- PPE chosen must be able to reduce the hazard to an acceptable level of risk mitigation. However, the level of protection actually required by the nature of the work may call for a more qualitative judgment. Be aware that PPE equipment should have Australian Standards, which should be complied with. There will be directions/ instructions on when specific PPE can be used and should be used. These instructions could come from government bodies/directives, industry codes etc

When choosing PPE certain factors need to be addressed. Type of protection required to choose the right type of equipment. It is important to have a full understanding of the hazard and task under consideration.

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

Safety Harnesses Sunscreen Sunglasses

Duration of work- Consideration must be given to the duration of work that will be undertaken as this will affect the length of time the PPE is exposed to the task. Another factor, some PPE is built for single-use to reduce the risk. An example of this is food handling gloves. These are designed for singleuse only. Fit- to achieves the necessary level of protection for any PPE. It is important that it fits the user correctly. Some PPE is designed as one size will fit virtually all users ( e.g., filtering facepiece respirators). Otherwise choose the correct size to work efficiently ( e.g., gloves are available in small, medium, large) One of the key failings of PPE is that it can be used incorrectly or indeed not used at all! Users must be trained in the correct use of fitting of PPE, but if wearer related factors are considered

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NATIONAL at the selection stage, the potential for misuse can be reduced. Compatibility- The PPE chosen must not interfere with or impede the use of other PPE that needs to be worn at the same time. Consequently, it is necessary to assess the various situations under which the PPE will be used to ensure that it will be compatible with all other items that might foreseeably be worn. An example of this could be wearing earmuffs with a hard hat

Employee responsibilities Workers also have duties in relation to PPE under regulation 46 of the model WHS Regulations. A worker who is provided with PPE by their employer must:

» Use or wear the PPE in

accordance with any information, training or reasonable instruction provided by the employer or PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking), so far as they are reasonably able.

» Not intentionally misuse or damage the PPE.

» Inform the business of any

damage, defect or need to clean or decontaminate any of the PPE if they become aware of it.

» If the PPE is uncomfortable,

does not fit properly, or the worker has an adverse reaction using it, they should consult their manager.

Visitor Duties Under regulation 47 of the model WHS Regulations, a person other than an employee is also required to wear any PPE that is required to be worn at that workplace. The PPE must be worn in accordance with any information, training or reasonable instruction provided by the PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking). An example of this would be contractors coming on to the premises and required to wear hi-vis vests in the warehouse.

Maintenance requirements for PPE To ensure PPE continues to minimise any potential risk for the employee, PPE must be maintained, repaired or replaced and stored correctly. This includes making sure it is clean, hygienic and in good working order.

PPE program A PPE program must be comprehensive and requires commitment and active participation at the planning, development, and implementation stages from all levels: A good PPE program incorporates

The golden rules regarding PPE in the workplace are:

• PPE to be selected to minimise risk to work health and safety

• PPE to be suitable for the nature of the work and any hazard associated with the work

• PPE to be a suitable size and fit and

reasonably comfortable for the person wearing it

Having a PPE program and ensuring employees wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) are trained with the PPE, is one of the vital steps to take in avoiding injuries caused by accidents in the workplace.

• hazard identification and risk assessment

• selection of appropriate controls • selection of appropriate PPE • fitting • education and training • management support • maintenance • auditing of the program

MGA INDUSTRY TRAINING IS HERE FOR YOU! Call our specialist team 1800 888 479 (option 2)

TRAINING

NATIONAL

Courses on offer: Food Safety In Australia it is a legal requirement that all food handlers be trained in food safety. In many states and territories (NSW, QLD, VIC, ACT) every food business must also have a Food Safety Supervisor contactable at all times. Here at MGA Industry Training we offer nationally a range of food safety courses to meet your business needs. Click here to review the courses on offer>>

Responsible Service of Alcohol It is mandatory for all staff who are involved in selling, serving, or employed where alcohol is sold or served to have a current RSA certificate. Responsible service is as about having confidence and a sound understanding about enforcing the law, no matter how the alcohol is sold (via bottle shop or bar) To gain this knowledge and skills, employees must either complete a state government course or complete the Unit of Competency Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB002). Please check with your state liquor authority which course is required At MGA Industry Training we offer national and state RSA courses that meet the state requirements. Click here to review the courses on offer>>

Tobacco Training MGA INDUSTRY TRAINING IS HERE FOR YOU! Call our specialist team 1800 888 479 (option 2)

Each state has its own prescribed guide to retailers on storage, advertising and selling Tobacco. MGA Industry Training offers to all its members free state tobacco retail guides online that reflect the training requirements. At the end of each state course, there is a Training Acknowledgement and Certificate of Completion. For those in Victoria- the requirement is a six monthly review. Here at MGA, those who successfully completed the course (and downloaded their training acknowledgement/certificate) will automatically receive reminders and activation for their refresher course. Click here to enrol yourself or your employees into your States Tobacco Retail Guide>>

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

TIMBER NEWS

NATIONAL

An EXPO like no other

The Independent Hardware Group took its annual networking and awards event online

When no one knew that they were able to travel in 2021 – the simple answer was to bring the IHG EXPO to their members instead. From 22 – 26 February, IHG held their virtual EXPO connecting stores with over 200 key suppliers to network, learn, make deals and explore new business opportunities. They were using an interactive and easy-to-navigate online platform that allows visitors to customise their EXPO experience. IHG threw open the doors allowing people working in the store to experience the EXPO not usually achieved with physical locations. Traditional Executive Business Sessions took place on the first day, as usual, sharing bold new ideas with the membership that will help drive growth through 2021 and beyond. During the remainder of the event, there was a mix of education through webinars and learning labs and shopping at the EXPO to keep members busy.

MGA TMA was again this year excited and privileged to participate with a virtual display stand providing visitors with information and support material about the benefits of joining MGA TMA. The prestigious IHG Award Ceremony was broadcast online during Expo week to celebrate the best of the group, with State finalists coming together to compete for the national titles and included the following MGA TMA members as qualifying nominees.

Categories Garden Centre - WA Tuckeys Mitre 10 Pinjarra and SA & NT McLaren Vale Mitre 10 Home Timber & Hardware - Vic/Tas Beaconsfield Home T&H; Mitre 10 - Medium Format Vic/Tas Pontings Mitre 10 and NSW Kincumber Mitre 10 Mitre 10 - Large Format SA & NT McLaren Value Mitre 10

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General Insurance Market Update Craig Love | Senior Risk Adviser, Adroit Insurance & Risk

For supermarket businesses that will be reviewing their insurance as part of forward planning and after a tumultuous period, it is worth looking at how events, including natural disasters, the COVID-19 outbreak and other market factors, are influencing pricing and terms. Australia was still cleaning up last March after the bushfires and insurers paying out claims for subsequent hailstorms and floods when the Government started shutdowns due to COVID-19. These events have provided fuel for the upward momentum in insurance premiums, which were already on the rise in many areas critical for businesses. Insurers need to bring in enough premiums to cover the cost of rising claims, and a spate of catastrophes – globally and locally – can also lead to increases in the cost of reinsurance, the cover that insurers buy to protect them from major events.

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

Insurers, which received catastrophe claims totalling $5.4 billion last summer, have become more cautious about the risk they take on and are drilling down as much as possible to understand risks at specific locations. As a result of this, the extent of premium gains can vary widely. Properties judged as more exposed to bushfires, cyclones, or other threats will face greater increases compared to businesses in safer locations or areas of lesser weather activity, while those that can show actions taken to minimise risks will benefit. COVID repercussions for insurers also include the wider economic impacts and financial market responses, which affect revenues from the investment of premiums and other income. The investment situation ups the ante for insurers to bolster earnings from underwriting, increasing the requirement for risks to be carefully selected and leading to less tolerance for areas that have performed poorly in the past.

Your supermarket business will need to be well prepared for its upcoming insurance renewal to gain the best arrangements from insurers for your circumstances. You may face more requests for information about your operations and questions about actions being taken to minimise the likelihood of a claim. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your supermarket insurance program, please contact our specialist supermarket Risk Advisers at Adroit Insurance & Risk on 1300 My Adroit for a free health check on your supermarket insurance program.

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Proudly Australian Made & Owned and market leader in Every Day Multipacks* Proudly Australian Made & Owned and market leader in Every Day Multipacks*, Bulla Dairy Foods is excited to drive sales with the Cool Down Assortment Party Pack (30 sticks). Featuring three of our most popular Every Day Multipacks, it is the perfect crowdpleaser and also excellent value for Every Day shoppers. Made with fresh milk & cream and synonymous with Summer refreshment, the Cool Down assortment combines our top-selling Splits SKUs in Independents; the Splits Variety Lemon-Lime, Mango &

Raspberry 10 pack and Splits Selection Tropical, Wildberry & Orange 10 pack. Also included are 10 classic Icy Pops in Raspberry, Lemonade & Cola. Generating an incremental $860K in RSV and 77,000 units for Independents upon last launch (Summer 2017 – 2018)**, the Cool Down Assortment Party Pack is a proven performer and excellent opportunity to gain incremental Sales over Summer. *IRI Scan Data AU Independents MAT to 03/01/21 **Nielsen Scan Data AU Independents November 2016 to June 2018

Mental Health in the Workplace - why it’s important The National Mental Health Commission is encouraging retail workplaces to adopt Mentally Healthy Workplace guides, especially when considering the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The guides are intended to support the mental health and well-being of Australian employees and workplaces now and into the future. The guides provide guidelines on maintaining good mental health, which is as equally important as good physical health. To access information on this important topic, visit www. mga.asn.au/legal-hr/mental-health/copy-of-creating-amentally-healthy-workplace-starts-with-you

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Wolf Blass launches ‘Chase the Finals’ promotion with Brodie Grundy as campaign ambassador Following the unprecedented year that was 2020, Wolf Blass – one of the world’s most successful and awarded wineries – is back with its popular AFL promotion, this year giving football fans the chance to win tickets, flights and accommodation for them and a mate to every round of the 2021 AFL Finals Series. AFL superstar and South Australian local, Brodie Grundy, has come on board as the 2021 Wolf Blass AFL campaign ambassador, sharing his thoughts on what 2020 has taught him personally and how it will shape his chase in football and in life. “Living in a hub for most of the 2020 season meant that, like many Aussies in lockdown, I did not have access to outlets that provide great balance and perspective in my life. Not having my support network and routines such as study, or simply walking the dogs, has highlighted to me how important worklife balance is in living a happy life and performing on-field,” said Brodie. “My intention and goals for 2021 are as much personal as they are professional. I am always striving to be the best player I can, that’s a given however putting time into areas outside the game is equally, if not more important – whether that’s being a better friend, or member of the community.” “I find that when I balance my focus between my personal and professional life, I am able to approach the game with more vigour and motivation. A big part of that renewed energy comes from traveling and the perspective it brings. I’m looking forward to chasing more adventures off-field in in 2021, whether that be surfing or camping with the dogs,” concluded Brodie. Robert Knott, Wolf Blass Global Marketing Manager, is proud to be continuing its partnership with the AFL and following the year that was,

mga.asn.au | March 2021 | Edition 2

excited to reward a fan with the ultimate AFL prize. “Following a season of fans watching games from afar and players playing with no crowds in the stands, we have a newfound appreciation for the game and the joy it brings to football fans. It’s what brings us together as a nation and we are excited to be able to give fans an opportunity to literally live and breathe the game once again. Brodie is a great ambassador for our Chase the Finals campaign as he has such a great perspective on not just his professional career and where he’s wanting to take it, but also a focus on chasing personal balance and growth. This is very much aligned with the essence and values of Wolf Blass”, said Knott. Wolf Blass has been a proud sponsor of the AFL since 2015. The 2021 Chase the Finals promotion runs from 1 March 2021 to 30 June 2021. To enter, customers simply need to buy any 750ml bottle of Wolf Blass wine (excluding Eaglehawk), keep their receipt and visit wolfblass.com to enter. Minor prizes of $100 cash cards are to also be awarded instantly. The major prize winner will be randomly drawn and announced on July 2, 2021. For more information regarding the 2021 Wolf Blass consumer competition, please visit wolfblass.com or contact: Zoe Tostevin | Wolf Blass zoe.tostevin@tweglobal.com 0419 417 893

About Wolf Blass Wines Founded in 1851, Seppelt is one of Australia’s most historic producers. Few Australian wineries have carved such a distinguished name for both still and sparkling wines. Not only a pioneer of sparkling wine in Australia in the 1890s – of both white and red expressions – Seppelt also crafts some of the country’s most collected table wines and helped pave the way for cool climate styles in Australia.

CONTACT: MGA Industry Training P: 03 9824 4111 (Option #2) E: training@mga.asn.au

MGA Industry Training approved by ROC (Registered Organisation Commission) is now delivering

MGA Finance & Governance Training for Registered Organisations

The Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 (the RO Act) requires all office holders whose duties relate to financial management to undertake approved training within six months of taking office. •

This course is designed for newly elected officers that are comfortable with self-paced learning.

•

No virtual classrooms and keeping appointments.

•

You can complete at any time or place.

•

There are 8 interactive modules to complete with a final assessment.

•

No need to wait for a trainer to assess your work, once the assessment has been completed, you can download your Certificate of Completion immediately.

Full details can be found on our website www.mga.asn.au

www.mga.asn.au

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Original Aussie FinTech eftpos unveils fresh new brand logo as it quickly scales in mobile and eCommerce eftpos, Australia’s national payments network enabling real time debit payments across the country, recently unveiled a newlook logo and brand refresh to better reflect the brands digital transformation.

The new logo and fresh brand colours follow the announcement of the eftpos digital product and technology strategy rollout over the next two years, which aims to make it easier for Australians to manage their own money and live a better life in the digital world. eftpos CEO, Stephen Benton said eftpos wanted to create a bold and distinctive look and feel across every touch point – in store, on mobile and across all digital platforms – that appealed to all Australians including Millennials who are embracing the digital economy. Mr Benton said eftpos is synonymous with low-cost debit card payments across Australia, so it was vital the company developed a new brand identity that was still unmistakably recognised as eftpos, no matter where people shopped or what device they used. “We want Australians to know that our company is evolving alongside them, and our goal was to convey simplicity and modernity while preserving our distinctly Australian heritage,” Mr Benton said. “The trust, convenience and security they have come to know when using

eftpos remains, and at the same time we are innovating and advancing for the future.” “This brand refresh is a key component of our much broader digital payments strategy, focussed on creating greater value, ease and security for consumers and businesses by enabling compelling innovations for members, FinTech’s and retailers that enhance the digital commerce experience.” Mr Benton said one of the changes was to transform the eftpos ‘e’ into a dynamic, energetic visual cue to emphasise a fresh, distinctive, and meaningful representation of the way Australians live their busy lives. The refresh was spearheaded by multi award winning branding and design agency Hulsbosch, renowned for developing visual identities for many of Australia’s iconic brands. Jaid Hulsbosch, Director at Hulsbosch said “This iconic Australian brand is back with a defined brand story and a standout, relevant symbol. A vibrant upgrade in colour and an evolved, stylised ‘digital e’ now perfectly represents the brand and its exciting future.”

Mr Benton said the new brand rollout would be a staged roll out due to the brand’s extensive presence, with over 50 million cards to be updated along with hundreds of thousands of eftpos acceptance marks displayed by merchants across Australia. “eftpos is one of Australia’s most iconic brands, and we were careful and thoughtful about how we needed to evolve it for the future,” Mr Benton explained. “Extensive market research and consumer feedback from pre-launch testing has been extremely positive, confirming the new brand retains all the elements they uniquely associate with eftpos as a humble Australian innovator doing good for Australia,” Mr Benton said. About eftpos eftpos is Australia’s debit card system, processing over 2 billion debit card transactions in 2020 worth an average of more than $300 million each day. For more information on eftpos, please visit: www.eftposaustralia.com.au

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