The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has come out in support of an investigation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) into restrictive lease arrangements.

ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said restrictive clauses in shopping centre leases promoted anti-competitive behaviour across a number of retail categories including footwear, fashion and accessories retailers
"The ACCC's preliminary investigations have already highlighted the anti-competitive nature of restrictive clauses in shopping centre leases by limiting consumer choice," he said, adding the debate was by no means restricted to the grocery market.

"The ARA welcomes any change to local planning laws and shopping centre lease arrangements that support retail competition across all sectors, including clothing and footwear, department stores, household goods and specialty retailing."

"Only a highly competitive marketplace will allow small retailers, larger national chains and international players to thrive and profit alongside each other. An open retail market, free from restrictive and anti-competitive leasing arrangements, would provide greater choice for consumers in regards to product and price in one location," Zimmerman said.

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