CHANGES to Millicent’s shop trading hours have continued to cause a stir through the community with many concerns raised by residents.
Master Growers Association chief executive Jos de Bruin has warned it will result in job losses to independent retailers.
The national industry association, which represents Foodland and IGA in South Australia, said deregulation of trading hours would seriously impact the viability of small businesses across the state.
Mr De Bruin said while deregulated trading hours would benefit supermarket heavies, family enterprises and private businesses were likely to suffer heavy financial losses.
“We are fully aware of the struggle faced by independent retailers to keep their heads above water, as they fight to combat the might of the chains,” he said.
“We have seen Coles and Woolworths gradually expand their power by building more and bigger stores, which in the end just crowd out the little guys to the point of annihilation, all in their own self-interest.
“Currently small retailers are able to trade at times that gives them a small trading advantage and that helps them to survive, but if those times disappear, then so will they.”
Mr De Bruin said the existing shop trading laws provided a highly competitive market between the independent sector and larger chain supermarkets.
“South Australia has a healthy mix of competition, it is robust and it offers consumers the best of both worlds,” he said.
“If deregulation does happen, the independents will lose market share and it will cost jobs.
“The Liberal Party more than the Labor Party should understand small business.
“I do not think they understand the enormity of what their policy is about.”
Mr De Bruin said independent retailers were vital hubs in their towns through their community engagement and contribution.
“The independents are involved with the community, they provide help with schools, hospitals and other fundraisers,” he said.
“They really set the standard in terms of retailing and community.”
