INDEPENDENT retailers in Inverclyde have hailed a scheme which helped boost their skills and confidence to grow their businesses.

Twelve local retailers - including Smiths of Greenock, Gourock traders Crafty Sew and So and The Whisky Room, and Cherry Blossom Children’s Boutique in Kilmacolm - recently completed the council-led programme.

The initiative was delivered by Tickety Boo Training and Associates after securing funding from the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Keith Wilson, from Smiths of Greenock, said: “The growth programme was an excellent opportunity to meet and discuss with fellow retailers.

“It also highlighted the many growth opportunities open to local businesses in Inverclyde that we at Smiths hope to take advantage of in the coming years."

Independent Retailers Growth Programme presentation event. From left, Susan Francis, Giulia Canata, Keith Wilson, and Kerry Santhosh  (Image: Supplied) During the sessions participants were given in-depth guidance to help their business reach its full potential by focusing on core aspects, including business strategy, marketing, customer service, e-commerce, stock control, and people and performance management.

It also helped establish a new network of independent, local retailers to share ideas, experiences and work collaboratively.

Susan Francis, from Crafty Sew and So in Gourock, said: “I’m very passionate about growing with the business, but I wasn’t sure where to start and the business growth programme has taught me so much.

“From attending the programme, I have gained friendship, lots of new skills and clear vision of where I want the business to be.”

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The course featured five interactive sessions, all under the supervision of industry experts.

Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “I was myself an independent retailer so I know all too well the challenges associated with running a business."

He added: “Small businesses are vital for the economy locally and nationally and this business development programme is designed to help independent retailers to grow and prosper."

One-off grants of up to £1,000 were also available to those who successfully completed the programme to help towards achieving their business growth aims.

The initiative was open to retailers operating in Inverclyde for a minimum of one year and with no minimum turnover requirement.

Council chief executive Louise Long, who presented participants with their completion certificates, said: “It was really useful in identifying challenges and but also opportunities within our towns and villages to ensure small businesses get the help and support that is available.”

Following on from the sessions the council has now launched a similar initiative aimed at independent hospitality businesses.