The Australian Retailers Association has expressed its concern over the sustained lockdowns in Melbourne.
The organisation has stated that it is disappointed that the Andrews Government couldn't confirm that retail would reopen on October 19.
CEO Paul Zahra said that the ARA is also concerned that it hasn't received any specific plans relating to retail's eventual reopening.
"This is a serious blow to Victoria retailers who were led to believe they could open next week and get ready for the Christmas rush.
"Beyond the disappointment, we are also gravely concerned by the fact we have not seen any specific plan that will guide retailers through the restart process.
"Most retail workers have face-to-face interactions with their customers, so it is imperative that they have a full understanding of any additional COVID protocols that maybe currently being contemplated.
"And with Christmas ten weeks away, additional time and planning is also necessary to physically prepare the stores for the critically important holiday trading period.
"The Victorian government has drawn up restart guidelines for different sectors of the economy like hospitality and tourism but has only just begun to think about a retail restart plan.
"This lack of forethought could result in hazardous conditions when the time does come to reopen the retail industry in Victoria," he said.
The statement comes as Melbourne's 14-day case average bumps up to 9.9, with it needing to drop to five before significant reopening steps can be taken.