IBPLC Empowers 800 Retailers with Financial Skills
Omolabake Fasogbon
No fewer than 800 businesses have been trained by International Breweries Plc (IBPLC) under its Retailer Development Programme (RDP), otherwise known as Growing Retailers Innovatively Together (GRIT) initiative.
The firm stated that it was targeting to train 1000 retailers by the end of 2024, in line with its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and growth in Nigeria.
The training which lasted one month saw selected retail partners and bar owners across Nigeria, including Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Ilesha, Lagos and Sagamu exposed to tailored business training, coaching, and mentorship.
According to the firm, the physical and virtual training was expected to enhance entrepreneurial skills, promote financial inclusion, and drive sustainable growth for its retailer base.
Speaking, the Managing Director of the company, Carlos Coutino, reiterated the role of small business to community and national prosperity, harping on its development.
He said, “With GRIT, we provide meaningful support to our retailers with skills training, mentorship, opportunities to scale, and access to much-needed resources such as -digital tools, financing, and other critical input.
“Doing this, we are also able to create a future with more cheers for its stakeholders.”
Also speaking, the Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director, IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun, acknowledged the roles of retailers to the brand’s bottom-line.
“For us, entrepreneurship is about supporting and uplifting small and medium-sized businesses across our value chain, from farmers to transporters, suppliers/vendors, local retailers and many more. Strengthening our retailers supports their communities and foster sustainable business growth across the country.
“GRIT symbolises our determination to work together to realise shared value with our stakeholders,” he said.
Participants also expressed appreciation to the organisers, testifying how the engagement shaped their understanding of trade.
