International Breweries Plc (IBPLC) has launched its 2024 Retailer Development Programme (RDP), aiming to empower 1,000 retailers across Nigeria to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and promote financial inclusion. The month-long training took place in five key markets: Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Ilesha, Lagos, and Sagamu. So far, about 800 retailers have completed the training, with the total expected to reach 1,000 by the end of the year. The program focuses on inclusion, education, and growth, providing tailored business training, coaching, and mentorship. In 2023, approximately 150 local retailers were trained, highlighting the program's expansion this year.
Carlos Coutino, the managing director of IBPLC, emphasized the critical role that small businesses play in local economic development. The 2024 edition of the RDP introduced a hybrid training model to offer participants greater flexibility. Retailers learned essential skills such as financial management, stock taking, and business growth strategies. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the program's significant impact on their business practices and networking opportunities. This initiative reflects IBPLC's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Nigeria, reinforcing the importance of supporting local businesses in the community.
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