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Newsagent and lottery merger announced

Nick Hall

Franchise brands within the lottery and newsagent industry can expect greater representation, following a recently announced newsagent and lottery merger.

The Australian Lottery and Newsagents Association (ALNA) and the Lottery Retailers Association (LRA) have joined forces to become the only ACCC-authorised national body representing all newsagents, distributors and lottery retailers in every state and territory.

Impact for franchisees

The newsagent and lottery merger is likely to improve collective bargaining representation and strengthen advocacy, negotiating power and support within the industry.

Brian Kearney, ALNA CEO said the newsagent and lottery merger came in response to tightening economic conditions for small business.

“Running a small business is tough, but when done well it is hugely rewarding and beneficial to our nation’s economy,” Kearney said.

“Every small business should have someone in their corner, and as a combined force, Australia’s newsagents, distributors, and lottery retailers know that we are proactive and in their corner.”

“As the national body and the largest representative for Australia’s newsagents, distributors, and lottery retailers, we will be building on the successes and momentum that the Lottery Retailers Association and the Australian Lottery and Newsagents Association have experienced in affiliation together.”

New roles under the newsagent and lottery merger

Under the merger, Gary Carter, CEO of LRA will take on the positions of general manager of Victoria, and the national role of general manager, Lotteries.

Carter said the merger had progressed on mutually beneficial terms and was in the best interest of members of both organisations.

“Together we have already negotiated for better remuneration from Tabcorp for our members, we have fought to see lottery betting banned in Australia, and we have provided guidance, support and advocacy for our member to help them grow their businesses,” Carter said.

“Both organisations bring together a wealth of expertise and experience, and we look forward to benefiting our members’ businesses as one team.”

Recent trends

The latest announcement follows a string of similar deals for ALNA. Last year, the body merged with the Lottery Agents Association of Tasmania, and in February merged with Lottery Agents Queensland.

Kerney explained that the unification of the industry bodies allowed for members to better traverse the evolving sector challenges.

“Our industry needs unity so we can meet the challenges our members face to improve their profitability and to future-proof the industry,” Kearney said.

“That is what this merger brings. In addition, it capitalises on the complementary strengths of both organisations, to bring greater value and impact to our members who are Australia’s largest independent retail and home delivery group.”

The branding of the two organisations will merge over time, however the amalgamation of staff and management has been effective immediately.