Irish retailers have moved to adapt to a new age of technology, according to the latest figures published today from Retail Ireland Skillnet, the education and training division of Retail Ireland.
Almost 70,000 training days were facilitated in 2017 as Irish retailers continued to embrace work-based learning.
“The Irish retailing landscape has changed dramatically in the last number of years due to the constant development of online technologies and the consistent rise in consumers opting to acquire goods and services via the internet. Last year, over 1,600 retail employees participated different courses as progressive retailers recognised the key to unlocking new opportunities and riding the wave of change is through the education of their employees. Sean Carlin, Manager of Retail Ireland Skillnet said.
“Our mission is to offer work-based training and education which is developed by retailers and delivered at a time, place and pace to suit the sector. Courses are designed and delivered in conjunction with industry and address the challenges and opportunities faced by employers in today’s dynamic business environment.
“The concept of work based learning is extremely attractive to employers and employees alike as assessments are linked to real life issues impacting retailers on a daily basis. In 2018, Retail Ireland, Skillnet are expecting to surpass all previous year’s training numbers as progressive Irish retailers interest in work based learning and upskilling employees heightens to new levels”.
Government Funding
Over the last number of years, Retail Ireland Skillnet have developed QQI certified work based learning programmes for the retail sector ranging from Operational to Degree and Masters level courses, all of which are 50% funded by government.
The Degree in Retail Management Practice which is delivered in conjunction with Letterkenny Institute of Technology has currently almost 200 retail employees enrolled on the programme.
© 2018 - Checkout Magazine By Donna Ahern
