Retail News at a Glance, 27 October 2026

Retail News at a Glance, 27 October 2026. What happened this week in Australian retail and retail technology.

Aldi settles underpayment class action for $55 million

The Federal Court approves the settlement of the SDA's class action against Aldi over unpaid work before and after rostered shifts, the union says. Aldi's total remediation reaches about $55.2 million for about 32,300 current and former staff, payable by 31 March 2027. Why it matters: unpaid pre- and post-shift time now carries a court-approved price. SDA.

Nick Scali ANZ orders fall 15% after cyberattack

Nick Scali's ANZ written orders fall 15 per cent in the first quarter and first-half ANZ revenue is guided 11 to 14 per cent lower, Inside Retail reports. The company cites weak conditions and a mid-August cyberattack that delayed customers; UK orders rise 29 per cent. Why it matters: a cyber incident is named in a listed retailer's revenue guidance. Inside Retail.

Temple & Webster revenue falls 8% as it cuts promotions

Temple & Webster's revenue falls 8 per cent from 1 July to 19 October after it cuts promotions and raises some prices, Inside Retail reports. Contribution margin dollars rise 16 per cent, and FY27 EBITDA guidance of $33 million to $40 million stands. Why it matters: the online furniture retailer is trading sales for margin. Inside Retail.

ASIC cancels Snaffle operator's credit licence

ASIC cancels the credit licence of Walker Stores, the liquidated operator of Snaffle, from 12 October. The Federal Court ordered it to pay a $33.5 million penalty in May for overcharging consumers on credit contracts, and the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort has since paid two AFCA determinations it left unpaid. Why it matters: an unpaid AFCA determination makes cancellation mandatory. ASIC.

Australians spend a record $25 billion online

Australians spend a record $25 billion online in the September quarter, up 17 per cent, or 26 per cent of retail spend, Ragtrader reports from Australia Post data. Marketplaces lead at $6.1 billion; fashion grows 11 per cent to $3.6 billion. The average basket falls 6.8 per cent to $90. Why it matters: shoppers order online more often but spend less per order. Ragtrader.

Walmart lets outside AI agents shop, with guardrails

Walmart publishes terms for outside AI agents that shop for customers, the company says. Agent Profiles, due within a month, need approval per purchase or a spending limit; a beta Agent Gateway on MCP handles reorders. Agents never see card details, and those that break the terms are blocked. Why it matters: the largest US retailer is setting terms for agents rather than blocking them. Walmart.