Clare Rayner visits The Store, Rudheath
3 September 2010
A host of
local Northwich businesses attended a retail event at The Store in
Rudheath for tips on how to maximise business and increase
profit.
The free Flavour of Retail event was organised by Cheshire West
and Chester Council.
Guest speaker for the event, Clare Rayner, a retail champion,
spoke of her own experience in retail and shared her insights into
how businesses can maximise their potential to increase their
bottom line. Clare has a special interest in seeing local
businesses thrive - her parents used to run a shop in
Northwich High Street.
Clare has 19 years experience in retail from fast food through
fashion, supermarkets, perishables, consumer electronics and
general merchandise. Currently she operates a successful
consultancy business aiding some of the high streets biggest names
as well as some smaller independents.
The free event, sponsored by Cheshire West and Chester Council,
included networking opportunities providing attendees with the
opportunity to speak with industry professionals and peers
including The Skills Academy, Mid Cheshire College, Charisma Card
scheme, Business Link, Blue Orchid, Trading Standards, and the
Chamber of Commerce.
Said Councillor Herbert Manley, Executive Member for Prosperity,
who attended the event: "There was a great interaction between the
presenters and the participants. There were also suggestions as to
how the Council may improve the services for retail trade in the
town of Northwich."
The Store is a new Retail Skills Centre in Rudheath providing a
wide range of short courses for businesses and their
employees. Some of the courses on offer include Customer
Service training, an Introduction to Trading Standards (including
pricing and returns), a Visual Merchandising course as well as
accredited courses such as Health and Safety at Work.
Also attending the event was Northwich East and Shakerley
Councillor, Cllr George Miller. He said: "We would like
to thank Clare for her enlightening talk on her experiences in the
retail sector. The advice provided on the evening was both
informative and practical for the range of businesses
attending."
The Store is a partnership between the Council and local
businesses. As a joint enterprise the superb facility provides
an ideal location for businesses to come for advice and to network
with fellow retailers.
Businesses interested in finding out more about The Store and
courses offered there can find out more by calling 01606
334790.