More free training sessions for independent retailers in Mid Sussex after successful launch

Martec International is running the free sessions and following a successful launch session, it has announced the dates for the rest of its free workshops next year.

Councillor Jonathan Ash-Edwards, deputy leader of the district council and cabinet member for economic development, said: “Independent retailers provide a unique shopping experience to our local towns and villages.

“We believe this free training will provide practical, down to earth training that will enable local retailers to increase profits and compete more effectively with the chains.

“We expect demand for places to be high and urge owners of independent shops to sign up now.”

Brian Hume, managing director for Martec International, said: “We were delighted at the attendance and enthusiasm for the first session on honing your retail strategy.

“We have planned a fantastic series of workshops to help independent retailers fight back and find out new ways to boost sales and increase profitability.

“Mid Sussex District Council is a very forward-looking local authority and by offering this free training to independent retailers. It is helping shopkeepers ensure New Year profitability.”

Mike Lorusso, owner of Fun Pots in Haywards Heath attended the first workshop. He said: “It met my objectives very well. I thought it was a very worthwhile session.

“The customer analysis, in particular, was excellent at providing ideas to put theory into practice.”

The next session is on Tuesday, January 8, in East Grinstead, and will focus on product range and product management.

Further workshops are being held throughout Mid Sussex on the following dates;

- Tuesday, January 22, in Hurstpierpoint

- Tuesday, February 5, in Burgess Hill

- Tuesday, February 26, in Cuckfield

- Monday, March 11, in East Grinstead

Register at at www.martec-international.com/services/114/free-training-for-independent-retailers.