Small shop employment boost

• Law change allows small retail shops to employ more people
• Staff cap increase will benefit businesses and consumers

The law has been changed so that small retail shops in Western Australia can have 18 people working at any one time - previously the limit had been 13.

Commerce and Small Business Minister Simon O'Brien said the passing of the Retail Trading Hours Amendment Bill 2011 was a welcome boost for business and consumers.

"Small retail shops can open 24 hours a day, every day of the year if they choose and giving them the option to employ up to 18 staff provides an opportunity for more stores to trade 24/7 or to expand operations when they are open," Mr O'Brien said.

"This will create greater choice and flexibility for consumers as well as boosting employment among small to medium-sized businesses in the retail sector; in turn stimulating the local economy."

Ross Anile, owner of Roleystone Supa IGA said he was delighted with the increase after finding the staff cap of 13 very restrictive.

"We're extremely pleased with the decision which will allow us to trade on a competitive basis.  Having only 13 people on the shop floor at any given time was high pressure and presented a challenge in terms of customer service - now we can attain a higher standard."

Mr Anile is not alone.  Relaxing the staff cap will mean about 7,000 small retail shops have more flexibility and will help them to improve customer service, the range of goods available and be more competitive.

The Department of Commerce also expects there will be a number of new applications for small retail shop certificates; increasing the amount of shops which are allowed to open any time, any day of the year.

      Fact File

• The cap was originally four when the Retail Trading Hours Act was passed in 1987 and was last increased from 10 to 13 in 2006
• Applying for a small retail shop certificate is free.  Businesses can contact Consumer Protection's Retail branch on 9282 0841
• More information at: http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumerprotection - click Business and then Retail Trading Hours

Minister's office - 9213 6400