As Victoria is in the midst of its 5th Lockdown, retail businesses across the state are feeling the full effects of economic closure. National Retail Association chief executive Dominique Lamb said it has been like “Groundhog Day” for Victorian retailers, as they entered the state’s fifth lockdown since the pandemic began.
“Even a short, sharp and successful lockdown can have a giant impact on businesses forced to close,” Lamb said.
“Not only do they forgo revenue for the days they’re unable to trade, but reopening is not like flicking on a light switch – rosters need to be organised, stock needs to be ordered, and protocols need to be implemented.”
Lamb predicted Victorian retailers were likely to lose around $750,000 in turnover during the five-day lockdown, while ARA boss Paul Zahra put the number at closer to $1 billion.
“Victorians have been to hell and back over the past 18 months and lockdowns have sadly become a way of life… The impact will be immense – we estimate another billion dollars’ worth of retail trade is at risk, and many small businesses are past breaking point.”
To read the article in full click on the link to Inside Retails article below https://insideretail.com.au/covid-19/victoria-enters-five-day-lockdown-starting-tonight-202107