Queen public holiday a headache for retailers, peak body says
Retailers have been forced to juggle unplanned "complications" after the sudden announcement of a public holiday to mark the Queen's death, Australia's peak retail body warned.
Tognini's CafeDeli owner Mark Tognini said he was already counting the cost of losses to both his catering business and his cafe.
"Most of our catering companies are already cancelling for next Thursday," he said.
"It's probably about $10-15,000 worth of work that we will lose."
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Tognini's CafeDeli owner Mark Tognini said he was already counting the cost of losses to both his catering business and his cafe. Nine
The Australian Retailers Association urged states and territories to quickly clarify trading conditions for the one-off holiday which falls next Thursday, on September 22.
"This event will create some complications for businesses with store closures and staff scheduling challenges," ARA boss Paul Zahra said.
Many work rosters were set up weeks in advance, he said.
"There will also be a small but unexpected loss of trade, and additional staffing costs, which may impact cashflows for small businesses."
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Retailers got little notice of the one-off public holiday on September 22. Fairfax / Jessica Hromas
Speaking today, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended his decision to introduce a memorial public holiday.
"This is the first time we have had a change of a head of state," Albanese said.
"Australia needs to, it wants to mourn the contribution of Queen Elizabeth II. A one-off public holiday is an appropriate response."
Zahra said many in the community, including retailers and their staff, will want to honour and mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
READ MORE: What happens to the Queen's Birthday long weekend now?
He was "confident" retailers will "abide respectfully" by the government's decision.
Announcing the holiday yesterday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said September 22 would officially be called the National Day of Mourning for Her Majesty The Queen.
The public holiday will be a one-off to allow Australians to pay their respects.
EXPLAINED: Australia's National Day of Mourning for Her Majesty The Queen
Are you a retailer frustrated by the public holiday? Email msaunokonoko@nine.com.au
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