The omicron tsunami: are our businesses ready?

The omicron tsunami: are our businesses ready?
An Auckland central interceptor worker gets a PCR test. (Image: Watercare)
Brent Melville
The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) wants the government to accelerate the use of rapid antigen testing to help combat the spectre of mass worker absenteeism.The 14,000-member association's head of advocacy and strategy, Alan McDonald, said the business community was acutely aware of the need to regularly test staff, particularly once the much more infectious omicron variant of covid-19 arrived.“We see regular testing, and particularly rapid antigen testing (RAT) as a key tool in keeping business going and supply lines o...

More Retail

HelloFresh profit plunges 84% as revenue drops amid customer fallout
Retail

HelloFresh profit plunges 84% as revenue drops amid customer fallout

Meal kit provider HelloFresh New Zealand has reported a steep decline in profit and revenue in 2024, as the business faces continually shrinking results post-pandemic.HelloFresh reported revenue of $117.8 million in the 12 months to Dec 31, 2024, a drop of 18.8% or $27.3m from $1...

Staff reporters 17 Nov 2025
The Warehouse CEO Mark Stirton unveils cost reset amid margin pressure
Retail

The Warehouse CEO Mark Stirton unveils cost reset amid margin pressure

Continued margin pressure and an unsustainable cost base have led The Warehouse Group to implement a comprehensive cost reset programme, something which could see head office roles slashed to save costs.Chief executive Mark Stirton said the group’s shareholders expect decisive ac...

Staff reporters 17 Nov 2025
Want an easier way to travel with a suit?
Retail

Want an easier way to travel with a suit?

Known as ‘convertibles,’ they combine a garment bag with a duffel to carry a suit.

NZ’s second giant Costco Wholesale to be built at Drury
Retail

NZ’s second giant Costco Wholesale to be built at Drury

New Zealand’s second giant Costco Wholesale shop will be built in South Auckland’s Drury, it has been confirmed.Kiwi Property chief executive Clive Mackenzie and Costco country manager Chris Tingman made a joint statement about a conditional land deal.“Kiwi Property has reached a...

Staff reporters 12 Nov 2025