Peak body the National Retail Association supports the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association’s (SDAs) message to shoppers to be calm and respectful of workers as we enter the excitement of the Cchristmas holiday season.
The SDA, representing retail, fast food, and warehousing workers and has urged Australian consumers to be considerate of others and show kindness in their interactions with retail workers.
The retail sector is the largest employer of young people in Australia and has experienced a disturbing rise in reports of customer abuse over the past two years. Data reveals that at least 1.5 million retail workers are at risk in vulnerable work environments.
While it might be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season that is no reason for consumers to ever take their frustrations out on workers, many of whom are working long shifts at full capacity.
It has been hard enough for retailers to hold on to their workers, and the increased risk of emotional and physical harm will only make the problem worse.
The NRA asks shoppers to help create a safe and joyful environment for retail workers by treating them with respect, kindness, and conscious thought in the true spirit of Christmas.
The National Retail Association is the voice of modern retail, representing more than 60,000 stores across Australia. It has been serving businesses in the retail and fast-food sectors for close to 100 years.
For more information please contact the NRA’s media unit at marketing@nra.net.au