From November, small businesses started experiencing the busiest period in terms of consumer traffic, dining, and
shopping. As the country prepares for its first proper holiday season post pandemic, thousands of retailers have rolled
up their sleeves in anticipation for peak sales. However, with the cost-of-living crisis looming large, what does it
mean for small businesses and how can employers prepare for the holidays?
Only [1]67% of retailers expect sales growth in 2022 as they face rising business expenses, increased wages, and supply chain
difficulties. Consumers are facing inflation pressures of their own with cost-of-living rising rapidly which will lead
to them cutting down on discretionary spending and opting for practical gifts. There is also a sense of consumers coming
full circle with a shift towards conscious spending and purchasing decisions becoming less impulsive.
Mr Laurence McLean, Operations Manager from Employsure; one of New Zealand’s leading experts in Employment Relations and
Health and Safety commented, “The retail and hospitality industries are unfortunately still struggling with chronic
labour shortages and small businesses are forced to operate at reduced hours due to the lack of staff. The holiday
season can be challenging and complicated for many employers especially with managing the peak season rush in their
business."
“If that wasn’t stressful enough, employers must also manage employee leave requests and understand public holiday
entitlements. Business owners must make smart choices and plan for the holidays and ensure a smooth business continuity
process is in place over the festive period.”
For many businesses such as retail, hospitality and hair and beauty, the holiday season is one of robust sales, peak
traffic, and busy staff schedules. However, employers need to be mindful that small businesses are now competing in a
highly fragmented market for both consumers and employees. It is an absolute must that business owners support their
employees in any way they can. Create realistic schedules for employees and remember to allocate additional breaks.
Mr McLean further commented, “Small business owners are juggling different roles and responsibilities. They often act as
the manager, HR person, mentor, and cheerleader for their employees. They wear many hats and play several roles within
the business, such as being needed by their employees, their customers, suppliers, and distributors. With the Christmas
season on its way, employers must be well-versed with employee [2]entitlements, [3]leave management and [4]duty of care. They cannot afford to be negligent or ignorant on these issues as the consequences are far too costly for
any small business owner. Employsure has released resources specifically tailored to support business owners with their
obligations over the holiday period. We are here to help employers, so they don’t have to shoulder the burden alone.”