Harvey Norman ‘deterrent’ clause not enforceable, lawyers say

Harvey Norman ‘deterrent’ clause not enforceable, lawyers say
Harvey Norman said indemnity clauses are common in contractor relationships. (Graphic: NZME)
Gregor Thompson
It is doubtful that an indemnity clause in Harvey Norman consultancy contracts is enforceable, say several employment lawyers, including a King’s Counsel.Harvey Norman sets up businesses for high-performing sales staff to manage departments within its stores as "proprietors".A clause in the contracts that proprietors sign explicitly seeks to make the signatory indemnify Harvey Norman for all court costs and damages if a legal challenge were to deem the individual an employee rather than a contractor.Harvey Norman has declined to...

More Retail

Warehouse drops guidance, loss now in scope
Retail

Warehouse drops guidance, loss now in scope

The retailer has raised the possibility of a full-year earnings loss.

Foodstuffs serves up reuse trial with Bonson
Retail

Foodstuffs serves up reuse trial with Bonson

Most shoppers skip reusable bags so will they return deli trays?

Cooks Coffee flags ‘material uncertainty’
Retail

Cooks Coffee flags ‘material uncertainty’

Executive chair Keith Jackson says the firm is not concerned. 

Gregor Thompson 30 Jun 2025
Leaner picture for 3M without masks
Retail

Leaner picture for 3M without masks

Annual results show a 61% drop in revenue in two years.

Denise McNabb 30 Jun 2025