About AdvanceRetail
Powering the future of retail through integrated software solutions.
About us… it’s all about you.
If you're running a specialty retail business, you already know how complex things can get — you need systems that keep up with the way you work, not ones that force you to change.
That’s where AdvanceRetail comes in.
Our innovative, workflow driven platform supports unified commerce, bringing your operations together in one place — from sales to stock to customer service — with real-time visibility and tools that fit, no matter how your business is structured: single brand, multi-store, or franchise network.
We offer multiple deployment models designed for minimal disruption, so your team can stay focused on what they do best — serving customers.
AdvanceRetail is built for specialty retailers like you. Flexible, proven, and ready to support your growth.
Our Mission
Shaping the future of specialty retail with smart, workflow-driven software.
Our Vision
Be the partner of choice, reducing complexity and lifting efficiency for multi-store, multi-channel specialty retailers.
Our Story
AdvanceRetail has roots dating back to 1968, starting as a Burroughs bureau service in New Zealand. By the 1980s, we’d launched our own software, and by the mid-90s, we were a market leader with growing partnerships across Australia and Asia. In 1998, we released the AdvanceRetail Windows platform, setting the foundation for our modern retail solutions.
Over the years, we’ve supported a wide range of well-known retail brands, expanded into new markets, and continued evolving to meet the needs of specialty retailers. Today, as part of the Vela APX group, we remain focused on our mission - Shaping the future of speciality retail with smart, workflow-driven software.
MEET OUR TEAM >
Our Values
Seamless Connectivity
We ensure our software integrates smoothly with existing systems, creating a unified retail experience.
Passionate People
Our people are at the heart of everything we do. We value their input and dedication to driving our projects and evolution.
Productive Partnerships
We believe in working closely with our customers and partners to deliver solutions that meet their specific.
Innovative Efficiency
We strive to create smart, workflow-driven solutions that reduce complexity and maximise.
Continuous Improvement
We are committed to learning. Constantly enhancing our products and processes, reflecting on ourselves, learning from experiences, and always striving to do better.
Shared Success
We create value that we share with our customers, fostering long-term partnerships and shared success.
Our Journey
For over 35 years, we have been committed to serving the technology needs of retailers, continually evolving to provide innovative software solutions.
1968
NZ Company established as Burroughs bureau.
1980
In-house software launched as product “Omnibus”.
1989
Omnibus POS module launched.
1990
“ShopMaster”DOS POS solution launched.
1993
First Australian client.
1994
Partnership with Fujitsu/ICL NZ.
1995
Market leading position in NZ.
1996
Established as standalone company.
1998
AdvanceRetail Windows software launched.
1999
Australian office opens.
2001
Malaysia, China & Hong Kong distributors
2002
First shopping mall rollouts (China).
2004
Ireland distributors appointed.
2006
Major client, Farmers, signed NZ $7M revenue, 42 staff.
2007
Acquired by 3Q Holdings
2014
SmartStore mobile POS integrated.
First major client, Pandora Australia.
2015
Major multi-national client, Pandora Asia, signed.
2022
Acquired by Vela APX as part of 3Q Holdings.
Solutions designed for you.
We provide seamless omni-channel solutions that streamline retail operations, enhance customer experiences, and empower staff with user-friendly tools.
We have created strong and loyal partnerships with a range of retailers across various industries. These relationships are built on a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges within each sector.
OUR SOLUTIONS >
Electronics
Fashion
Homewares
Footwear
Liquor
Pharmacy
Health
Dept Stores
Franchises
Telco
General Retail
Hardware
Outdoors
Discount
Jewellery
Books
AdvanceRetail is an Australian business, now part of Vela APX, an operating group of Constellation Software Inc - a Toronto-based, publicly listed software company.
As a valued member of Vela APX, AdvanceRetail benefits from a strong corporate platform, international support and a collaborative environment of complementary organisations that provides us with the expertise and capital to help us grow organically.
Learn more about AdvanceRetail
Our Partners & Integrations
We partner with the world’s leading applications and payment providers to deliver best-in-class solutions that enhance performance, streamline processes, and ensure secure, seamless transactions for businesses and customers alike.
Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team is deeply passionate about our customers, partners, and employees, driving high growth and industry disruption every step of the way.
News & Highlights
Get the latest on how AdvanceRetail is reinventing retail for businesses in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond with our latest news and highlights section.