Retail New Zealand General Manager Greg Harford says it's a gloomy outlook for the retail sector as tough competition and a move towards online shopping are hurting stores.

He told Andrew Dickens some industries are struggling more than others.

"It's pretty hard out there for retailers particularly in the fast fashion industry but it is really, really competitive out there - Zara, TopShop, H&M have all arrived here recently."

LISTEN ABOVE: Greg Harford speaks to Andrew Dickens