The newsagency industry in Australia and New Zealand is undergoing a significant transformation. This is evident in the first weeks of 2026 more so than in 2025.
Traditional revenue streams, such as print media and physical lottery sales, are shifting. While some headlines suggest a decline for the channel, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many local newsagents are thriving by pivoting to new niches and adopting advanced retail strategies. Central to this success is the evolution of newsagency software from simple transaction processing to a comprehensive business management tool.
Smart newsagency software is key to helping Aussie newsagencies thrive.
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept for the future. It is a practical tool currently being used in successful newsagencies every day. Embedded AI tools within point-of-sale software represent a genuine game-changer for small business owners. These tools assist with time-consuming tasks such as writing compelling product descriptions for e-commerce and managing complex inventory data.
Using AI allows newsagents to maintain a professional digital presence without requiring hours of manual labor. This technology ensures that local businesses stay competitive in a marketplace where digital sophistication is now expected by consumers. It is difficult to justify using a software solution today that does not have these capabilities integrated into its core functions.
Streamlining Operations with Direct Connections
Efficiency in a modern newsagency is built on seamless integration. One of the most tangible benefits of updated software is the ability to import supplier invoice PDFs in seconds. This eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors, and saves significant administrative time.
Beyond stock management, direct integrations with accounting platforms like Xero further reduce overheads. By connecting the point-of-sale system directly to the general ledger, newsagents gain a clearer view of their financial health with less effort. These advances often save the business many times the actual cost of the software subscription.
Expanding Beyond the Physical Storefront
The modern newsagent is no longer confined to four walls. Many businesses are now generating substantial revenue through online sales. It is now common to see newsagencies achieving $400,000 or more in annual turnover via Shopify websites that are directly connected to their in-store software.
A robust software solution must support selling anywhere. This includes integrations with platforms like WooCommerce and BigCommerce, as well as connections to delivery and roster apps. When inventory is synced in real-time between the physical shop and the online store, the risk of overselling is removed, and the customer experience is improved.
In a consolidating market, the stability of a software provider is paramount.
Tower Systems currently serves more than 1,800 newsagents, which is more than all other competitors in the channel combined. This scale allows for continuous investment in development and support.
Choosing a market leader provides a level of safety. It ensures that the software will continue to evolve alongside industry standards and government regulations. Whether it is a change in lottery management through The Lott or new requirements for newspaper home delivery, a dedicated provider remains ahead of the curve.
A Partnership Built on Experience
Software is most effective when backed by real-world experience. Tower Systems is unique because it also owns and operates newsagencies. These stores serve as testing grounds to refine features before they are released to the wider network.
This partnership approach extends to human-led training and 24/7 access to learning libraries. It ensures that staff are confident and that the business owner can reclaim their time. One newsagent recently reported saving 40 man-hours per month after updating their systems. That is a full week of productivity returned to the owner every month.
The role of the newsagent is fundamentally reshaping.
To thrive in this dynamic retail landscape, owners must evaluate whether their current technology facilitates growth or hinders it. Modern software should handle everything from special customer orders and pre-selling products to theft mitigation and retail strategy.
The Australian and New Zealand newsagency channel has a bright future for those who embrace these efficiencies. By automating routine tasks, newsagents can refocus their energy on exceptional customer service and exploring new revenue streams.
While newsXpress does not require its members to use any particular software, most use Tower Systems.
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The right POS system or website for any retail business depends on the specific needs of the retail business. Tower offers POS software and websites made specifically for local small business retailers in a selection of retail channels. To see if we might help you…, request a free, no-obligation demo today.
Call 1300 662 957 in Australia or 0800 444 367 in New Zealand. Or, email sales@towersystems.com.au.
