POSITIVE retail news is ahead for Australia with a recent Deloitte report highlighting corporate optimism will make Christmas this year even merrier. But Deloitte says the upcoming holiday trading period should banish any negativity. In its 14th edition of the annual Retail Holiday Report, Deloitte said it surveyed 150 leading Australian retail executives – including those in the automotive sector – and 1000 consumers to capture a clear view of expectations for the upcoming all-important holiday trading period. The Deloitte report said: “With interest rates falling and cost of living pressures easing, Australian consumers are feeling optimistic about the season ahead, while remaining savvy and searching for the best deals. Deloitte said that artificial intelligence (AI) is this year’s star on top of the retail tree as shoppers choose platforms that make Christmas shopping quick and convenient.