International Breweries to empower 1,000 retailers

International Breweries Plc, a member of AB InBev, has reiterated its commitment to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth in Nigeria, through its ongoing 2024 Retailer Development Programme, also known as the Growing Retailers Innovatively Together initiative to train 1,000 retailers.

According to a statement, the month-long ongoing training introduced by the parent company, AB-InBev, and rolled out in its different markets across Africa is designed to enhance entrepreneurial skills, promote financial inclusion, and drive sustainable growth for its numerous retailer base.

It noted that IBPLC launched the programme in five key Nigerian markets including Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Ilesha, Lagos, and Sagamu, training about 800 retailers so far. The goal is to reach 1,000 by the end of 2024.

The programme, centred on Inclusion, Education, and Growth, offers tailored training, coaching, and mentorship to retailers, fostering innovation and economic growth through skill development.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of International Breweries Plc, Carlos Coutino, said, “Thriving small businesses are the backbone of local communities and economies that play critical roles in the economic development of communities by generating employment, providing vital services and contributing towards innovation.

“We believe that we can build meaningful change with our GRIT programme, now in its second year of implementation. 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.”

According to Coutino, achieving entrepreneurial development, business growth and sustainability for our retail partners not only requires GRIT and perseverance; but ensures that International Breweries continues to create a future with more cheers for its stakeholders”.

Also, the Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director, IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun, said, “Entrepreneurship means uplifting SMEs across our value chain, from farmers to retailers. Strengthening retailers supports communities and drives sustainable growth. GRIT symbolizes our shared determination to create value together.”

Addressing retailers at the session, the National Sales Director, IBPLC, Nicholas Kade, said, “We know that when our retailers grow, our business grows. The training is about equipping you to help your business thrive which will also invariably help us thrive, as we all contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.”

On his part, the General Manager of Retta Park Hotel, Samuel Onyeulor, who participated in the programme said, “A lot of new perspectives have been brought to my attention and I have been able to learn, unlearn, and relearn. It has also provided an opportunity for me to network and share experiences and best practices in business.”