Bunnings AI Error, Step One Slump & BFCM Insights

This week, Mal and Alex break down the biggest stories shaping Australian ecommerce and retail. From AI slip-ups to collapsing kids’ brands, booming APAC Black Friday numbers, and a world-first social media ban, this episode covers the signals founders need to be watching as we head into 2026.Bunnings AI Illegal Advice — Their chatbot gave unsafe electrical guidance, highlighting the risks of AI deployments without proper guardrails.Step One Sales Slump — The underwear brand forecasts a 31–37% drop as overexpansion and category fatigue collide with cost-of-living pressure.Go-To Winds Down Gro-To — Zoë Foster Blake quietly closes the kids’ line to refocus resources and protect the core brand.Smiggle Struggles — Premier Retail flags weak sales as parents trade down on non-essential kids’ stationery.Loyalty Shift to Recognition — Points are losing power; emotional recognition, identity and belonging now drive true loyalty.BFCM 2025 Data — APAC sales surge, POS grows 54%, and Australia ranks #3 globally as Black Friday becomes an omnichannel event.Under-16 Social Media Ban — Age verification wipes out teen audiences on major platforms, reshaping youth marketing and influencer ecosystems.