Month: January 2025

EXCLUSIVE: newsxpress Valentine’s Day prize packs

newsXpress has provided its member retailers with a hamper of goodies to be given away as a prize in each local shop for Valentine’s Day. This promotion is another newsXpress EXCLUSIVE promotion, designed to drive card sales in local newsXpress businesses.

This wonderful prize pack along with A1 and other collateral is helping local newsXpress businesses not only sell Valentine’s Day cards but other cards too. Any card purchase puts the shopper in the running.

Provided to newsXpress members as part of its Seasonal Edge promotional campaign, newsXpress is helping local small business retailers to attract new shoppers and to encourage shoppers in-store to spend in the business.

Differentiating marketing like this is vital to helping these local retailers stand out from other retailers, to shine and provide promotional opportunities local shoppers love.

This is a newsXpress difference. It is another way we help our member retailers to present unique shopper competition opportunities and through this to show the business as being genuinely locally engaged.

newsXpress is a privately owned company. We have been in business since 2001. We are a marketing group.

We’re not a franchise. Nothing we pitch is mandatory. We do not charge a fee based on your turnover.

What we do for each newsXpress member depends on their situation and what they want from us. Every business is different. Every business owner has different needs.

While all newsXpress members have access to our preferred suppliers, network wide connected websites, seasonal collateral, digital assets and networking opportunities, it is in our personal, business-specific, help where value can be found for plenty of newsXpress members.

We assess your business data as we prefer to offer advice based on evidence. Often when we do this we discover opportunities missed, low hanging fruit to be picked.

The approach is whole of business, considering location, product mix, financial resources, people resources and what you want and need from the business.

While we have members who prefer to do this work for themselves, we have others who appreciate a more engaged approach.

How much or little newsXpress members and our head office team members work together is entirely under control of each newsXpress member.

newsXpress newsagency marketing group: about us

newsXpress is a privately owned company. We have been in business since 2001. We are a marketing group.

We’re not a franchise. Nothing we pitch is mandatory. We do not charge a fee based on your turnover.

Corporately, we are newsXpress Pty Ltd, ABN 99 098 073 833.

Our head office team is small:

Managing Director: Mark Fletcher. Also owns Tower Systems. Has owned newsagencies since February 1996.

Retail and online strategy and management: Anthony Suta. Anthony has 17 years retail experience in physical and online retail.

Supplier manager and retail mentor: Jennifer Searle. Jennifer has 30+ years retail experience including running her own shops.

Data analyst and retail mentor: Michael Elvey. Michael has 27 years tech, data analysis and retail shop floor experience.

Corporate store manager and retail mentor: Guy Coles. Guy has 20 years retail experience in local indie and national corporate retail.

Corporate store manager and retail mentor: Chris Farrell. Chris has 13 years retail experience including specialty visual merchandising skills.

In addition to running the newsXpress head office and providing member advice, support and services we also run related businesses:

Physical shops in Victoria and several group and corporate owned online businesses.

It’s easy to say no to a website if you don’t have one because you don’t know what you don’t know. It’s also easy if you had one in the past and it failed.

Most websites don’t work. Smart people use a failure to do better next time.

Core to website success is filling needs and wants. While needs and wants are quite different, they compel good online business.

Here are the top reasons why we think every retail business needs a website:

  1. Capture sales when you are closed. Typically, more than 50% of online purchases are then the brick and mortar business is closed.
  2. Engage when you are closed. Use chat to answer questions from anywhere, or you geek-out and have an AI chatbot do this.
  3. Reach people not currently shopping with you. Typically, 75% of sales are from people located nowhere near your shop.
  4. Have a second outlet for quitting stock.
  5. Have a place where you can experiment.
  6. Playing with a plan Bin case your shop finds itself in choppy waters.
  7. To learn. A website, especially your first website, teaches you so much: What people want. What they could pay. Haw awful some people are.
  8. To get you out of a rut. If you’ve been in your shop for ages and are mailing it in each day, a website could put a spring in your step.
  9. To make your shop more valuable. Having a website can make your shop more appealing when you decide to sell.
  10. To find a secondary brand. Could be the first step in a shop rebrand.
  11. To drive traffic to the shop. People will find products on your website and visit as a result, for sure.
  12. To give you another source of revenue that is completely unrelated to anything you do in your shop.
  13. To harvest email addresses. Email marketing from Shopify is a breeze.

Having a website gives people a landing page from your Facebook, Instagram and TikTok posts. This is important.

newsXpress newsagency marketing group Q&A

We love questions from prospective newsXpress members. here are some common questions we are asked, and our answers:

Is newsXpress a franchise? No.

Do you have exclusive supplier deals? Yes, plenty.

Will you show me your supplier terms before I join? No.

My shop is small, is that okay? Size is not a factor.

Can you help me sell online? Yes.

Do you offer a benchmark against which I can compare my performance? Yes.

Do you offer a strategy for attracting more shoppers? Yes.

Is there anything from newsXpress that is mandatory? No.

Do you visit our shop? It’s 100% up to you.

Do we change the name of our business? Not unless you want to.

Do we need to put a new sign up? No, it’s up to you.

Do we have to wear a uniform? No, not unless you want to.

Does newsXpress pay for signage? Not for the shop. We do provide members with wonderful seasonal posters.

What if I sell my business? Your agreement with newsXpress ends.

Do you run catalogues? Yes, but not the old-school Christmas, back to School and Mid-Year catalogues.

What is your position with magazines? We offer our members marketing tips designed to sell more magazines.

What is your position with lotteries? We actively work with Lotterywest. We also have a national account manager with The Lott through whom we navigate any issues or concerns members express.

Can we see your list of preferred suppliers prior to joining? No.

Can you save my business? We will help as much as possible.

Can you help me reduce my labour cost? We’ll share advice.

Can you help me negotiate on rent? Yes.

If you have any questions, please ask.

We’d love to help you increase the gross profit percentage your business achieves, attract more shoppers, guide shoppers to spend more each visit, convert more existing stock to cash, make consistently better business decisions and help you enjoy your business more.

We want these things to happen for you because they reflect success in business and success in business is satisfying.

It’s about wanting success and methodically going about achieving success. For us, that’s what MAKING THINGS HAPPEN is about.

What does newsXpress look for in a partner retailer?

Duo join newsXpress do you need to be a newsagent? No. All retailers are welcome.

We are keen to partner with business owners who want to run a more successful and enjoyable business, and who are open to change.

  • Your location is no barrier.
  • The size of your business is no barrier.
  • Being an Australia Post LPO is no barrier.
  • Your card supplier preference is no barrier.
  • Your financial situation is no barrier.
  • Having lotto, or not, is no barrier.
  • Your age, gender, and ethnicity are no barrier.

What matters most is what you want for your business, and for yourself from your business.

If, for example, you think your future relies on newspaper home delivery, lotteries, parcel collection, betting account top-up, and similar agency business, newsXpress will not be a good fit for you.

If what you want is a more successful, valuable, and enjoyable business, we may be the right fit for you.

Successfully being part of newsXpress flows from your energy, and engagement.

The relationship is a partnership, one we both need to ensure is right.

Now, here’s what happens when yo join newsXpress.

First up, we want to know what is important to you.

Next, with your permission and if you want, we look at your data.

Then, we work on a plan with you to make things happen.

The details are different for every member.

If you want to sell online though a website specific to your business, we will introduce you to the team that can deliver this at half the usual cost as a newsXpress exclusive opportunity.

You get to choose what you buy, when you buy, how you display and how you promote. We will offer advice, and suggestions. Action is up to you.

How does newsXpress compare to other marketing groups?

We don’t know the details of what other groups offer today or what they do or do not do for their members today, just as they cannot know this about newsXpress.

What we do know is what people who have switched to newsXpress tell us they like about our group.

  • They like how active we are, how engaged we are with members at a group level as well as at the individual business level.
  • New suppliers. They like that we have plenty of suppliers they have not had access to before.
  • They like that we have good value deals that help them make more money.
  • Fresh ideas. They like the fresh ideas we pitch that help their business.
  • They like how fast we are on trends, that we help them get into a craze early, and get out before the craze has faded.
  • They like the advice we provide on turning locations in-store into hotspots.
  • They like that our advice is evidence based and not pandering to suppliers.

We think the newsXpress offer is unique in terms of what we do, how we do it, and the extent to which we help our members.

newsXpress helps local newsagents enjoy their business

Enjoying your business helps you make better decisions. It also helps those with you in the business make better business decisions.

Through our newsXpress community you have friends you can have a laugh with, and folks you can trust to decompress with.

In our Zoom meetings and other contact points we, together, have a laugh.

We nurture your resilience and, sometimes, help you find enjoyment when it may not have been obvious.

It really comes back to why you are in business. The answer to this varies. Understanding it is key to the enjoyment you feel and achieve.

The business itself becomes enjoyable when speed bumps are overcome and stormy weather guided away. Having access to your own business mentor can help achieve these things.

Success is enjoyable. We encourage and help to find success so you can feel the happiness it brings.

What newsXpress offers local newsagents is unique.

newsXpress is genuinely unique in the newsagency marketing group mix.

We own, and run our own shops, as playing fields where we experiment for our members with their full knowledge, and guidance.

We own and run successful websites. Our two biggest consumer-facing websites each did half a million dollars last year.

We were first with a consumer-facing online offer at the group level, and at an individual store level.

We have an active new shopper strategy, focussed through several suppliers that do not partner with any other marketing group.

We will disagree with you sometimes. If you ask our opinion, our feedback will be honest, and backed by evidence. We owe you the truth.

We leverage the Tower Systems retail experience. Tower serves 3,500+ independent retailers across 16 retail channels. Data insights from these channels provide early insights that we leverage for newsXpress members.

The value of this dataset is extraordinary.

Through this we can speak to key metrics such as return on floor space, return on labour, and return on investment, and through these help you cultivate more value from your business.

If you want to run an enjoyable and rewarding local newsagency business it starts with you not thinking about the business within the framework of being a newsagency. Don’t let your business plans be bound by tradition.

How newsXpress helps newsagency suppliers thrive

newsXpress is an Australian owned marketing group serving close to 200 independently owned member businesses.

We nurture value for member businesses through sharing business insights, strategic advice, store level data supported advice and optimism for a bright future.

Our members pay us a modest monthly membership fee. There is no fee on turnover. Most of our revenue comes from rebates from our partner suppliers.

Not a newsagency.

While newsXpress stores operate within the newsagency channel, they are not typical newsagencies. Gifts, homewares, nesting, personal care, collectibles, toys, games … are all important categories to us.

Not a franchise.

newsXpress is not a franchise.

What we look for in preferred supplier partners.

The ideal preferred supplier offers products through which our member retailers can attract new shoppers.

We love Australian designed and made.

We love introducing product categories to our member businesses.

Retail price is of little concern.

Our retailers want to be able to tell a story. They also love a category or range than evolves over time.

What we are not interested in products you may consider to be perfect for newsagents as such products are usually not embraced by our members.

How we help our preferred suppliers

When we bring on a preferred supplier, we introduce them to our members, explaining the products and where we see them as fitting within a newsXpress business. We explain the target customer and discuss how to reach them.

We email our members 2 or 3 time a week. We include in these emails offers and other collateral provided by suppliers.

We post a products promotional envelope with flyers from preferred suppliers to our members at least every second month.

We host at least 2 member meetings via Zoom each month and offer supplier access to introduce products and engage in a Q&A.

We produce a supplier specific Zoom session, live a virtual trade show for any supplier introducing new products, a showroom walkthrough or more. These can be with our head office team only or with members invited for Q&A.

All Zoom sessions are recorded and links to the videos shared with members.

These is no additional cost for any of these activities.

How do you start a newsagency or newsagent business?

Here at newsXpress we help local newsagents thrive. We do this through advice and support. Every decision is yours to take. It’s your business. You are in control.

What we do for each newsXpress member depends on their situation and what they want from us. Every business is different. Every business owner has different needs.

While all newsXpress members have access to our preferred suppliers, network wide connected websites, seasonal collateral, digital assets and networking opportunities, it is in our personal, business-specific, help where value can be found for plenty of newsXpress members.

We assess your business data as we prefer to offer advice based on evidence. Often when we do this we discover opportunities missed, low hanging fruit to be picked.

The approach is whole of business, considering location, product mix, financial resources, people resources and what you want and need from the business.

While we have members who prefer to do this work for themselves, we have others who appreciate a more engaged approach.

How much or little newsXpress members and our head office team members work together is entirely under control of each newsXpress member.

Nothing is required or mandatory.

When it comes to in-store retail though, we help you with the everyday:

  • Buy price. We help you buy better.
  • Stock turn. We help you sell products sooner.
  • We help you reduce the cost of theft.
  • We help you cast your business differently, to help improve shopper stickiness.
  • New traffic. We help you attract people not shopping with you today.
  • We help you tame them.

We help you make things happen by being actively engaged.

Being profitable is critical for every business.

Your profit today puts money in your bank account today and sets you up for making more when you decide to exit the business.

So, when we talk about business value, we are focussed on helping you drive profit. From what you pay for inventory, to how long it sits on the shelf to your business overheads to making more from each shopper visit, we help you maximise these and other touchpoints.

Our 130+ preferred suppliers offer members terrific margin opportunities.

We shine a light on products that turn faster.

We have preferred suppliers who: provide exclusive product and who offer first to market opportunities.

Exclusive. Plenty of our preferred suppliers do not sell to other newsagents.

Our central billing program unlocks for you delayed billing terms.

Our shop floor tactical training and guidance can help you achieve higher inventory turn rates, delivering a better return on investment, better return on floor space, and better return on labour.

newsXpress is here to help local newsagents thrive!

Do newsagents sell Pokémon cards?

Do newsagents sell Pokémon cards? This is a question often asked on search engines. The answer is yes, newsagents sell Pokémon cards. Not all newsagents tho. newsXpress newsagents are more likely to sell Pokemon cards that any newsagent.

From small card packs to Pokémon card sets you will find many newsXpress businesses with Pokémon cards ready for those in the hunt for these sought after cards that are part of the growing Pokemon world.

Pokémon trading cards are more popular than ever and newsXpress newsagents are grateful to offer these.

Pokémon trading cards have been a global phenomenon for decades, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down. With new sets released regularly, collectors of all ages are constantly on the hunt for the latest and greatest cards.

The excitement of pulling a rare or holographic card from a booster pack is unmatched. It’s a thrilling experience that keeps collectors coming back for more. Whether you’re aiming for a complete set, searching for specific cards to trade, or simply enjoying the thrill of the chase, collecting Pokémon cards can be a rewarding hobby.

Here are some tips for new collectors:

  • Start Small: Begin with a few booster packs or a theme deck to get a feel for the game and start building your collection.
  • Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the different card types, rarities, and game mechanics.
  • Join a Community: Connect with other collectors online or in person to learn from experienced players, trade cards, and participate in tournaments.
  • Protect Your Cards: Store your cards properly in sleeves and top loaders to prevent damage.

Collecting Pokémon cards is more than just accumulating cardboard. It’s about the social connections, the strategic gameplay, and the shared passion for a beloved franchise. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, the world of Pokémon trading cards offers endless opportunities for fun and excitement.

Here art newsXpress our locally owned shops and online stores are grateful to support Pokémon collectors as they engage in this fun and fulfilling hoppy and, for some, business. We’re in this with you, we’re here for the hunt.

newsXpress: Your all-inclusive partner for success in the Australian Newsagency industry

The Biggest Opportunity for Australian Newsagents in 2025: Embrace the Power of NewsXpress

Forget about just surviving. Australian newsagents have a golden opportunity to thrive in 2025, and newsXpress is here to help you seize it.

While online retail continues to grow, more than 10% of total business revenue for some smart Australian newsagencies now comes from online sales. newsXpress can help.

newsXpress: bridge the gap and boost your revenue

newsXpress is a unique marketing group designed to empower Australian newsagents to compete and win in today’s dynamic retail landscape. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Exclusive traffic-attracting products. Find new shoppers easily.
  • Expert mentorship to identify a profitable niche you’ll love. We don’t push a one-size-fits-all approach.
  • Exclusive access to a network of 130+ preferred suppliers offering better margins and faster-selling products.

The newsXpress Difference.

Sure, a website is crucial, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. NewsXpress offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to propel your newsagency forward, including:

  • Seasonal marketing collateral to grab attention and drive sales.
  • In-store training to optimize your shop floor layout and product mix.
  • Assistance with negotiating lower EFTPOS rates to keep more money in your pocket.
  • A community of fellow newsXpress members for sharing ideas and support.

Don’t let fear hold you back: embrace the – possibility

Perhaps you’ve had a bad experience in the past, or maybe you’re unsure where to start. That’s where newsXpress comes in. We provide the guidance and support you need to succeed.

Join the NewsXpress Family and Unlock Your Newsagency’s Potential

NewsXpress is more than just a marketing group; we’re a community of passionate newsagents helping each other achieve success. We share best practices, celebrate wins, andoffer support during challenging times.

Ready to take your newsagency to the next level? Contact newsXpress today and let’s chat about how we can help you turn possibility into reality.

2025 Tooth Fairy Uncirculated Coin and Kit

Released today, the 2025 Tooth Fairy Uncirculated Coin and Kit.

This will sell out for sure.

For decades, Aussie youngsters have woken with sheer delight to discover the Tooth Fairy has visited them. A baby tooth hidden under their pillow is gone, but a treasured coin lies in its place. The Royal Australian Mint is the Tooth Fairy’s official supplier of coins.

This special Tooth Fairy Kit includes a charming coin keepsake, a bamboo toothbrush, glitter pen, and tooth chart for children to keep track of lost teeth.

The Tooth Fairy has been a part of the lives of Australian children since the 1920s. Parents and grandparents alike will have fond memories of leaving a tooth out overnight and discovering that a silver coin had magically appeared by the next morning.

The 2025 dated coin features the Tooth Fairy playfully perched on a garden mushroom surrounded by flowers.

Features:

  • Adorable coin design by Aaron Baggio featuring the Tooth Fairy sitting on a mushroom
  • The coin’s obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III designed by Daniel Thorne
  • Australian legal tender
  • Fun packaging featuring a keepsake drawer and mirror
  • Small drawstring pouch
  • Tooth chart
  • A bamboo toothbrush to encourage youngsters to take care of their smiles
  • A floating glitter pen for a touch of magic

Celebrations 2025 50c Coloured Uncirculated Coin

The Celebrations 2025 50c Coloured Uncirculated Coin from the Royal Australian Mint is out now and available at many local newsXpress stores.

This stunning coin is unique and already rare.

This vibrant uncirculated coin is a playful reimagining of Stuart Devlin’s iconic 50c design, featuring the Australian Coat of Arms. The Royal Australian Mint has long been a trusted partner in commemorating special occasions and significant life events, and this new 50c Celebration Coin is the perfect gift to mark a wide range of milestones.

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, engagement, baby arrival, graduation, new job, promotion, sporting achievement, or any other moment worthy of celebration, this coin offers a unique and lasting memento.

The design incorporates a playful twist on the familiar 50c coin, showcasing a kangaroo and emu adorned with celebratory ribbons. A modern touch is added with yellow dots representing Australia’s national floral emblem, the wattle. These golden flowers have graced the Australian Coat of Arms since 1912.

To make the gift even more special, customers can include a heartfelt message for the recipient on an accompanying blank greeting card.

The coin’s obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, designed by renowned artist, Daniel Thorne.