Business programme launched

Twenty city centre based retailers will be given the opportunity to be mentored on a one to one basis by experienced consultants, they will attend five key skills evening workshops and have the benefit of two mystery shopper visits between August and November this year.

This announcement follows the successful delivery of a similar programme earlier this year completed by city centre retailers. One of the previous participants, Ian Curtis from Curtis Opticians said: “Our business is much better structured now and as a result we are hoping to increase our business turnover this year.”

The Independent Retailers Programme forms part of Derry City Council’s Economic Development Plan and is designed to assist indigenous/local retailers in terms of improving business efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness. The Programme also forms a key action within the recently launched City Centre Retail Strategy.

In welcoming this Programme, the Mayor, Colm Eastwood stated: “I am delighted to be announcing this very important Council-led economic development initiative geared towards retail businesses located in the City Centre. I recognise many of the difficulties that these businesses face and I hope that this Programme will bring direct benefits given the very important role that these traders play within our City.”

The Independent Retailers programme is being delivered on behalf of Council, by Full Circle Management Solutions Ltd.

If your business is interested in becoming part of the Independent Retail Training programme contact Eamonn Cavlan from Full Circle Management Solutions Ltd on 02890 691027 or email [email protected]