How to improve your shop's cash flow

Last updated: October 2026

Cash flow improves when a shop buys better, uses its space well, attracts new shoppers and lifts its margin. This article explains the support available to members in each area and how to access it.

Key takeaway: From 30 November 2026, the ATO will no longer accept credit card payments. If you have used a card to manage tax payments, review your cash flow now.

The ATO credit card change

The ATO will stop accepting credit card payments after 30 November 2026. Debit cards will still be accepted.

If you have an ATO payment plan linked to a credit card:

• Change your payment method before your first instalment due after 30 November.
• If you do not, payments may fail and your plan could fall into arrears or default.
• Review your cash-flow forecast for the months ahead.
• Talk to your accountant about your options.

Source: ATO guidance on managing payment plans

1. Buy better

Most of a shop's cash sits in stock. Buying too early, or too much, ties up money needed for rent and wages.

How we help:

• Buying assistance based on your sales history and the season ahead.
• Central billing, which reduces the number of supplier accounts to reconcile each month.

2. Make the most of preferred suppliers

newsXpress members have access to close to 150 preferred suppliers. Using them well can improve your margin, freshen your range and save time.

Read the supplier opportunities email every Friday morning. It lists current deals, new products and time-limited offers from preferred suppliers. Many offers close quickly.

How to get the most from preferred suppliers:

• Set aside time each Friday to read the email and note offers that suit your shop.
• Compare offers with your current suppliers. Check price, terms and minimum order quantities.
• Trial new lines in small quantities. Test what sells before committing floor space.
• Plan seasonal buying early. Use supplier offers to secure Christmas, Mother's Day and other seasonal stock at better terms.
• Order through central billing where available, to keep your accounts simple.
• Tell us if a supplier is not honouring a deal. If a supplier already gives you a better discount, we expect them to keep it.
• Ask us for help. If you are not sure which suppliers suit your shop, we can recommend some.

3. Make every metre earn

Floor space that does not sell costs you money.

How we help:

• A whole-of-business review covering floor space, category trends and reliance on any one product line.
• For newsagents, advice on moving space from declining categories, such as magazines, into gifts and greeting cards.
• Card analysis down to the pocket level, so you can see what each pocket earns before changing your layout.
• A written plan specific to your shop.

4. Bring in new shoppers

How we help:

• Seasonal Edge campaigns, funded entirely by newsXpress. In 2025 these delivered more than $1,500 per member in value.
• Step-by-step support to set up your Google Business Profile, so local shoppers can find you.
• An honest review of your social media and other marketing, with help to improve it.

5. Lift your GP%

A busy shop can still run short of cash if its margin is too low.

How we help:

• Peer benchmarking, showing how your GP% compares with similar shops.
• Access to low-cost EFTPOS rates. These are passed on in full. newsXpress makes nothing from them.

6. Get practical cash-flow support

How we help:

• Help to build a realistic budget.
• Regular check-ins to track progress and agree on next steps.
• Respectful, confidential conversations focused on practical action.

Quick checklist

• Check whether any ATO payments are linked to a credit card.
• Review your stock commitments for the next three months.
• Read this Friday's supplier opportunities email.
• Identify your lowest-earning floor space.
• Confirm your Google Business Profile is complete and current.
• Request a whole-of-business review or a cash-flow check-in.

Frequently asked questions

Can I still pay the ATO by card after 30 November 2026?
Yes, by debit card. Credit cards will not be accepted.

Where can I find current supplier deals?
In the supplier opportunities email, sent to members every Friday morning.

What if I am not receiving the Friday email?
Check your spam or junk folder. If it is not there, email help@newsxpress.com.au.

Does newsXpress provide tax advice?
No. We provide retail and cash-flow support. Speak to your accountant about tax.

Is there an extra cost for these services?
No. They are included in your membership.

How do I request help?
Email help@newsxpress.com.au.

Need help?

Contact us at help@newsxpress.com.au.