Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how Australians shop, with a sharp rise in consumers using AI-powered tools to personalise their retail experience. From tailored recommendations to voice-assisted purchases, shoppers are seeking convenience and connection like never before. Hayley Fisher from Adyen says businesses must act now to stay relevant by investing in AI and offering seamless, multi-channel customer journeys.

Yet while consumers are moving quickly, many retailers are falling behind. Adyen’s latest Retail Report reveals that only 26% of retailers plan to invest in AI this year, raising questions about who may be left behind as the sector evolves.

Hayley Fisher from Adyen joined us to unpack the findings. She says AI is not just a passing trend – it is becoming central to how people discover, decide, and buy. “Retailers need to meet customers where they are,” she explains, “and that means delivering a seamless journey across both online and in-store touchpoints.”

With shoppers demanding more tailored experiences, Fisher warns that failing to act could cost retailers not only customers, but their long-term relevance.

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Leaders must embrace radical transparency and resilience to navigate organisational changes effectively this financial year.

As organisations navigate redundancies, hiring freezes, and restructures, effective leadership and team engagement become essential in the new financial year.

Beth Hope from &Hope Coaching discusses radical transparency in leadership, which is crucial during challenging times. This approach involves clear and honest communication to prevent damaging rumours and ensure team engagement.

Leaders can build resilience through three main strategies. First, being present is vital, as it’s easy to dwell on past mistakes or future worries. Asking what is going well and identifying areas for improvement is key.

Second, continuous learning supports resilience, whether through micro-learning or additional courses to enhance skills.

Third, maximising energy is important. Simple actions like taking short walks can boost mental clarity. Leaders should schedule strategic meetings early in the day when mental capacity is at its highest.

Beth also highlights the importance of setting achievable goals, suggesting that focusing on micro growth can create momentum. By encouraging small wins, team members remain engaged rather than distracted by long-term strategies.

Human-centred restructuring can further enhance outcomes. When employees feel involved in decision-making, they are more likely to commit to changes. Co-creating with teams fosters engagement and collaboration during challenging transitions.