Industry News

MGA was pleased to join SPAR retailers, suppliers and industry representatives on the Gold Coast recently for the 2026 SPAR Australia Trade Show and Gala Awards Dinner.

Held at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre from 29–31 July, the annual event brought together retailers, suppliers, directors and staff from across the SPAR network to connect, share ideas, explore new products and initiatives, and celebrate excellence in independent retail.

MGA was pleased to join SPAR retailers, suppliers and industry representatives on the Gold Coast recently for the 2026 SPAR Australia Trade Show and Gala Awards Dinner.

Held at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre from 29–31 July, the annual event brought together retailers, suppliers, directors and staff from across the SPAR network to connect, share ideas, explore new products and initiatives, and celebrate excellence in independent retail.

The prestigious award celebrates excellence across customer service, store presentation, community engagement and business performance. It reflects the dedication and hard work of independent retailers who continue to deliver outstanding shopping experiences for their local communities.

The Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2026 introduces stronger penalties for prohibited smoking product offences, expanded enforcement powers, the ability to close premises involved in unlawful sales, and tighter controls on smoking product displays. The reforms also include stronger protections for children and young people and improved information-gathering powers for enforcement officers.

MGA welcomes the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission’s decision to refuse an application by the National Retail Association (which has since amalgamated into the Australian Retail Council) seeking to allow Woolworths’ Gordonvale store to trade on Sundays.

For 50 years, Williamson’s Foodworks Gisborne has been much more than a supermarket. It has been a community meeting place, a supporter of local causes, an employer of generations of locals and, above all, a family business built on strong values and deep local connections.

This July, the Williamson family will celebrate a remarkable milestone as their Gisborne store marks 50 years of continuous service to the Macedon Ranges community.