Training Related Jobs Relevant Contacts Retail Trade Hokohoko Industry Overview Retail trade is one of the most important indicators of economic activity because a large proportion of consumers' money is spent on goods and services. The measures of retail trade and spending show whether or not consumers have confidence in New Zealand's economy and indicate how well the economy is doing overall. The retail industry covers a wide range of businesses, most of which sell new and used goods to consumers for personal and household use. The industry includes retailers ranging from booksellers and butchers to repairers of personal and household goods.
Overseas interests are prominent in food retailing, supermarkets and fast food chains.
They are also well represented in the petrol, clothing and furnishing retail sectors. Food retailing, which includes cafes, restaurants and takeaways, has the highest sales of all retail sectors. The next highest sales are in motor vehicles sales and service, and the third highest are in accommodation, hotels and liquor retailing. This industry offers diverse training opportunities and various career paths. Most retail chains have in-house training programmes, including courses for assistants and trainee management staff.