Fifteen Skibbereen retailers are all set for a busy summer thanks to a specially designed retail programme which was funded and managed by The West Cork Enterprise Board. The intensive programme which began over two months ago saw local retailers take stock of their businesses and gain expertise to progress their services and plan ahead with the guidance of well known retail guru, James Burke.
The programme was held in response to requests from Skibbereen retailers who felt the need to look at new ways to approach their business and serve their customers was overdue. The programme provided retailers with the opportunity to work on the business rather than in the business and focus on areas including sales growth strategies, negotiation, developing world class customer service, as well as visual merchandising and display.
Ireland's top retail consultant, James Burke also worked with business owners on an individual basis to pinpoint key areas for improvement. Burke who is well known for his work with Feargal Quinn on “Feargal Quinn’s Retail Therapy” programme also works with some of Ireland's top brands to ensure best practice in a highly competitive sector.
Speaking of the course, Michael Hanley, CEO, West Cork Enterprise Board said, “We are delighted to have brought this programme to Skibbereen. Now more than ever it is important that our local retailers explore new ways to bring a fresh approach to their business which will not only aid them in long term success but also breathe new life in to how they work together for the development of the town of Skibbereen. Our local retailers are the lifeblood of our towns and it is vital to provide them with new tools to improve their business and this is what this programme was all about.”
Also speaking of the course, James Burke, Retail Consultant said, "It was been fantastic to work with Skibbereen businesses who are enthusiastic about not only surviving but thriving in spite of a trying economic climate. Their positive attitude coupled with their new knowledge from the programme will assist them in continuing to build a stronger local economy in which to do business. While overall retail sales for quarter one are only showing minor growth of less than 1%, some retail categories are beginning to push ahead and show larger growth which is encouraging. I am confident that each of our retailers can increase their business over the coming year by 5% by putting in to practice some effective techniques which they have learned on the course.”
