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Retailers Feel Better But Struggle On | Wellington News
Retailer confidence surged in Q2 as 70% feel optimistic about the next year—thanks to global events avoiding worst-case scenarios. But ground-level reality? Still tough: sales barely grew 0.4% while prices climb, squeezing margins. Cost of living remains the top stressor, though surcharge worries faded as Parliament’s ban rumors cooled. BNPL is booming—nearly half of retailers offer it, even for big-ticket items—but its business impact is murky: higher fees, no cart inflation. Younger and lower-income shoppers are adopting it like a credit card alternative, and its future? Still up for grabs…
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