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Autumn 2011 www.niirta.com news Follow us on Facebook & Twitter
The magazine for the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association
Victory in campaign to stop on street car park charges 1830 Niirta News_Layout 3 20/09/2011 16:32 Page 2
NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Local Traders Win Car Park Charges Campaign
Regional Development Minister, Danny Kennedy, has announced that he will not be proceeding with the plan to roll out on-street parking charges to 30 towns and cities across Northern Ireland.
the Northern Ireland Independent areas over the budget period, to make Retail Traders Association and their up the projected revenue lost from on‐ Chief Executive Glyn Roberts who have street parking. Given the pressures in contributed significantly and all areas of my budget, this is a very constructively to this review.” difficult task, however, I am The Minister added: "I recognise that determined to minimise, as far as Speaking in the Assembly, Mr Kennedy on‐street charging can provide vital possible, the impact on frontline said: "Given the tough economic traffic management improvements in services in my Department.” climate that town centre businesses certain circumstances and this are operating in I do not believe it is decision does not close the door on The Minister announced he proposes the right time to be implementing such schemes where all stakeholders can to offset the shortfall with: £2million a widespread proposal. agree that this is right for an individual by greater efficiency within his city or town; as was the case in Department; £2million reduction in "I have consulted widely and have heard Lisburn and Newry in 2008." Roads Service operational a united voice in opposition to these expenditure; £2.1million of income proposals. As part of my review I met Referring to the budget Minister from off‐street parking charges in with local public representatives, town Kennedy said: "The proposal to roll provincial towns, and on‐street centre traders, local Chamber of out on‐street charging was included in charges in some cities; and £2.7million Commerce and the Northern Ireland my Department's Budget 2011‐2015, reduction in the subsidy paid to Independent Retail Traders Association. and so I have to now find Translink. I would like to pay particular tribute to approximately £8.8million from other
Sammy Wilson MP, Finance Minister, Glyn Roberts NIIRTA CEO & David Ford MLA, Alliance Party Leader & Minister for Justice Peter Robinson MLA, First Minister supporting the and Glyn Roberts supporting the campaign on a visit to Larne Park the Charge Campaign
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DRD Minister Danny Kennedy MLA with UUP Leader Tom Elliott MLA
He concluded: "This announcement, turnover in traffic and prevents people The Park the Charges campaign was not to roll out new on‐street parking from parking all day. To have charged supported by the First Minister Peter charges demonstrates how a local for this could be the final nail in the Robinson MLA, Finance Minister Minister listens to the views of local coffin for our town centres” Sammy Wilson MP, UUP Leader Tom people and delivers outcomes which Elliott MLA, SDLP Leader Margaret reflect their needs. I hope traders “At a time when we should be Ritchie MP, Alliance Leader David Ford across Northern Ireland will welcome encouraging more shoppers to visit MLA and a wide number of MPs, MLAs the decision I have taken." our struggling town centres, these and local Councillors from all parties. charges would have resulted in more Glyn Roberts NIIRTA Chief Executive shoppers being forced to go to out of The 27 organisations supporting the said: “We are absolutely delighted at town stores which offer free car letter included NIIRTA, Londonderry Minister Kennedy’s decision to drop parking.” Chamber of Commerce, Pubs of Ulster, these charges” Ulster Chemists Association, Belfast 27 Business Organisation from right Chamber of Trade, Armagh City Centre “This is a good result for our town across Northern Ireland came together Management, Derry City Traders centres and our independent retail to oppose the Department of Regional Forum, Enniskillen Business sector that campaigned hard to get Development plans for additional on Partnership, Larne Traders Forum, these proposed charges dropped in the street car parking charges in 30 local Down Business Forum and Dungannon thirty towns” towns. Traders Association. The following Town Chambers of Commerce also “It is also a good day for devolution as Business Organisations & local supported the letter‐ Ards, Ballycastle, it shows that having locally Chambers of Commerce jointly put Ballymoney, Ballymena, Banbridge, accountable ministers can make a their names to an open letter to the Bangor, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, positive impact in changing policy” local party leaders calling for the car Cookstown, Lurgan, Roe Valley, “The current system in the 30 towns parking charges to be dropped. This Magherafelt, Newcastle, Strabane, where shoppers can park free for the was launched at Stormont along with Portadown and Omagh. first hour or two works to ensure a the Park the Charges campaign.
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Conference Looks at Economic Future
Delegates attending the annual Retail N.I. Conference will hear major speeches on the economy and the outlook for the next year. The conference, organised by Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce, will be held at the Stormont Hotel on Wednesday, October 5, starting at 9:00am.
One of the main speakers will be Alex Gourlay, Chief Executive of the Health and Beauty Division at Alliance Boots. He will be joined by a representative from the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister.
Two government ministers, the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson and the Environment Minister, Alex Attwood, will speak on the economic outlook for the next year, as will Professor Mike Smyth, from the University of Ulster.
Delegates will be welcomed by the President of Belfast Chamber of Trade Joe Jordan and Commerce and the Mayor of Belfast Niall O Donnghaile.
Joe Jordan said: “The conference is only in its third year but already it is a firm date in the calendar for many businesspeople from Northern Ireland. Once again this year, we have been fortunate to secure a number of keynote speakers.
“They are people who work at the cutting edge of business or have senior government positions and this will be a great opportunity to hear their opinions and aspirations for the future.”
NIIRTA AGM Tueday 27 September at noon at NIIRTA Offices Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association 261‐263 Ormeau Road, Belfast BT7 3GG Please contact the office if you wish to attend • Tel: 028 9022 0004
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Retail has a crucial role to play
New DSD Minister Nelson McCausland MLA writes for NIIRTA News
I believe that the retail sector has a the opportunities for our town and scheme in Dungannon, to which my crucial role to play in the strength of city centres, and our small businesses Department contributed, has our economy and in the health of our in particular. Most people will say that transformed the appearance of a towns and cities. One of my they are in favour of independent number of derelict properties to create department’s key roles in helping our shops, with their reputation for the the appearance of a ‘living’ and more economy through the current economic personal touch and a level of customer welcoming street. It does not involve crisis is to help support and build our service that the large chains often do bringing buildings back into use and is town and city centres, to keep them not deliver. And yet, in an age of online therefore a short‐term solution, but it vibrant, attractive and prosperous shopping and out‐of‐town is a measure that has seen success in places to work, live and visit. developments, the small shops and other countries and which can act as a town centres that people profess to precursor to new investment and re‐ DSD takes a key role in the planning love seem to be under a greater threat development. and development process for our than ever. town and city centres, through My proposals for new legislation to managing the masterplanning process Another challenge for many small enable Business Improvement and, where appropriate, enabling businesses is the impact of promotions Districts (BIDs) will potentially have a comprehensive development schemes. by the major multiples. The cut and significant impact. They will hand a One of our visible interventions is in thrust of business is not something I measure of control back to businesses our public realm schemes, where we wish to interfere with, save in one themselves. In a defined local area, can have a dramatic impact in terms regard: inappropriate drink businesses will be able to prioritise of delivering attractive town centre promotions. Given the problem alcohol the work that needs to be done to spaces where people want to spend creates in our society, it is clearly make their area more appealing, to put time and building confidence to unacceptable that some supermarkets together a costed bid for this work and enable a thriving private sector. A sell beer for less than some mineral to vote on whether it should be recent scheme in Newcastle, Co. waters. This is something I am implemented. Businesses can already Down, delivered in partnership with determined to see dealt with. do this and cover the cost voluntarily, Down District Council, resulted in a but the legislation will give additional 300% increase in footfall within the I want our towns and cities to remain powers. It will bring businesses town centre – a clear demonstration distinctive and unique, to be the best together and give them a vested of the value that can be added by that they can be, even if economic interest in identifying, costing and tailoring development to the unique circumstances work against us. For delivering the improvements that they strengths of a town. I want to increase example, the recent ‘virtual window’ agree are needed in their local area.
While the work I have outlined above is particularly relevant to the retail sector, it forms only part of the work of my Department, and that of my Executive colleagues’ Departments, in ensuring Northern Ireland is a prosperous and harmonious country. In my role as Social Development Minister, I will always aim to make a real difference to our communities. While this may sometimes be a slow process, I believe we are making steady
NIIRTA Delegation meeting with Minister McCausland (from l to r) progress that will stand the test of time Des Stephens, NIIRTA Planning Adviser, David Hunter, Larne Traders Forum, Glyn Roberts, for the benefit of future generations. NIIRTA CEO, Nelson McCausland MLA, Peter Carrington, Lisburn Road Business Association and Paddy Doody, NIIRTA Chair
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Powering NI’s Retail Sector
The retail sector in Northern Ireland “One such option for businesses, Association) and the Northern Ireland has faced significant challenges in especially those in the food retail Sustainable Energy Programme recent years with companies under industry, is our Nightsaver tariff offering (NISEP) to deliver a number of energy pressure to save money and make their businesses with storage heating or lots saving schemes. businesses as efficient as possible. of fridges and chillers, seven hours of low cost electricity per night.” Refrigeration typically accounts for 75 Power NI’s Weekender tariff is another per cent of the total energy bill in local option available and could see convenience stores. A grant of up to companies benefit from cheaper £4,000 is available to NIIRTA members electricity at the weekend and in the to fit transparent doors and efficient evenings. lighting helping them reduce energy usage by a massive 40 per cent. “We have found that bars and restaurants, for example, who do the “We have a range of initiatives and majority of their business at the grants which will help our local weekends, are making significant companies become more energy Alan Egner, Power NI’s Business Sales savings with this option. For example efficient. SMEs in all sectors can and Marketing Manager, said; “We a pub could reduce their bills by up to benefit from one or more of these have 80 years experience of providing 20 per cent if they switch over to our schemes and I would strongly energy for small businesses in Weekender tariff,” advised Mr Egner. encourage them to get in touch so we Northern Ireland and we’ve can help them to save money.” introduced a range of special tariffs, As well as providing sector‐specific new technology and grants which will tariffs, Power NI is working in Customers can contact Power NI on help small businesses to both improve partnership with NIIRTA (Northern 08457 455 455 or online at energy efficiency and save money.” Ireland Independent Retail Trade www.powerni.co.uk NIIRTA Meet with New Sinn Fein MLAs Sinn Féin MLAs for Fermanagh & arrangements for an event in South Tyrone Phil Flanagan & Sean Enniskillen to discuss the proposals.” Lynch have met with Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of the NI Independent Sean Lynch said: “As newly elected Retailers Association, and Joe Kelly, MLAs for Fermanagh & South Tyrone, spokesperson for the newly formed we are very keen to engage with local Enniskillen Business Partnership. businesses and to assist them as they attempt to lead the fight to get our The purpose of the meeting was to Sean Lynch MLA, Glyn Roberts NIIRTA local economy up and running again. CEO, Phil Flanagan MLA & local trader Joe discuss issues affecting independent Kelly on a recent visit to Enniskillen Town retailers across Fermanagh & South Centre: Pic from Fermanagh Herald “We are all too aware how difficult Tyrone and in particular, those in elected representatives can play in trading conditions currently are for Enniskillen. Speaking after the helping them through this period. small retailers and it is useful to meet meeting, Phil Flanagan said: “This was with representatives from the industry a very productive meeting and I am “Foremost on our mind was the to learn how best we can assist them. grateful for Glyn for taking the time to current consultation on the expansion travel to Fermanagh to meet with us. of the Small Business Rate Relief “We will continue to actively support Scheme. I have written to as many small retailers and that is why we have “Throughout the meeting, we discussed small businesses in Fermanagh as I so publicly supported the proposal to a number of areas where small retailers could find, seeking their views on this extend the Small Business Rate Relief are facing massive challenges at the proposal and encouraging them to Scheme, which is currently out for minute and what role we, as locally engage with DFP and to make public consultation.”
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Attwood pushes on with levy on shopping bags
Environment Minister Alex Attwood is asking the public their views on charging for the use of shopping bags and on how much we should pay for their use.
both reduce bag usage and effective and efficient generating waste, in order at the same time raise approach. But I am to tackle waste.” revenue that would be used determined to press on. My to provide funding for the department is about “We have real concerns that environment and other environmental justice, this levy, far from protecting Government priorities.This protection of our world, the environment, will is a green initiative. It can green jobs, a green future actually cause it greater symbolise a change of and recognising our built harm as proven in the attitude, a change in culture, and natural heritage as Republic where more a change for the better. central to our economic consumers are buying black potential. plastic bin liners (which “Throw away bags are an take 1000 year to eyesore and result in hidden “I encourage everyone with biodegrade on landfill) costs which each and every an interest in the issue to because single use bag A charge on single use one of us pays. Not only do fully participate to ensure usage has dropped” carrier bags is due to be we pay for the costs of that the new arrangements introduced by 1 April 2013. producing them in our are implemented in the best “It will also put retailers in The Minister is launching a shopping bills, but we pay possible way.” the position as unofficial tax public consultation to get for their impact on the collectors adding to their the public’s view on this. environment and the costs Glyn Roberts NIIRTA Chief operating costs and an of cleaning them up.” Executive said: already growing red tape Over 200million carrier “NIIRTA supports measures burden” bags are used in Northern The Minister advised that to reduce plastic bag use but Ireland every year with a the detailed framework for the proposed levy seems to “ A new strategy should be great environmental cost in implementation of the new be poorly thought through. developed by the DOE, disposing of them. arrangements will be It’s unclear if it is intended working with retailers, determined by legislation to discourage plastic bag environmental groups and In Wales a charge of 5p will due to be taken through the use or if it is a revenue packaging companies, which be placed on single use Assembly next year. raiser. It has to do one or the builds upon the voluntary carrier bags from October other – it can’t do both.” approach of educating 2011, while England and The Minister added: “I have customers and avoiding Scotland do not currently yet to take final decisions on “The Department of the more plastic bags going to propose to introduce a key issues such as the Environment has had £4m landfill” charging system. In the amount of the charge and per year deducted from its The consultation runs from Republic of Ireland a charge the types of bags which will budget to fund the Green 20 July 2011 to 12 October of 22 cents is payable for be subject to it. I want to New Deal, and it is proposed 2011. most plastic bags. listen first to what everyone the levy will raise enough has to say, including money to replace it. It Copies of the consultation Alex Attwood said: “I am consumers, retailers and appears, therefore, that the paper are available on the determined that we treat environmental levy is intended to be a DOE website at: the environment as what it organisations. The outcome revenue raiser. Using the http://www.doeni.gov.uk/w is: one of our most valuable of this consultation will help levy in this way will send a aste and NI Direct on assets. Over 200million me to assess various confusing message to the http://www.nidirect.gov.uk carrier bags are used in options for the introduction public. So, essentially, the /have‐your‐say‐current‐ Northern Ireland each year. of the charge – with a view public is being asked to buy consultations The aim of this charge is to to identifying the most plastic bags, thereby
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NIIRTA Assembly Election Walkabout
During the recent Assembly Election campaign NIIRTA, along with colleagues in local Chambers of Commerce, invited Party Leaders on walkabouts to showcase the best of town centres and to meet local traders.
Glyn Roberts and Former SDLP Deputy Leader and David McNarry MLA, Glyn Roberts and Newtownards Chamber Vice President Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon on a visit to Larne Andrew Getty
UUP Leader Tom Elliott MLA, Glyn Roberts, Cllr Tom First Minister and DUP Leader Peter Robinson MLA visits Hamilton & Andrew Getty Vice President Newtowards Chamber NIIRTA President Paul Stewart in his store in Magherafelt on a visit to the town Town Centre
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Role Models Needed
Young people need role models. That’s the message from Ian Jeffers, Director of The Prince’s Trust.
Pictured during his work experience at Smyths toystore is Chris O’Donnell from Derry who took part in Get into Retail programme last year. Chris is now working at Argos.
Jeffers believes the retail sector is full of great role models During the course, young people will: for young people and he is asking for us all to step up to this • learn new skills in retail and gain their EDI Level 1 in challenge. Retail Knowledge and First Aid certificates • get practical experience of work “With continuing rises in youth unemployment we are • improve their employability skills, including really concerned about the long term impact on our most communication, teamwork, and reliability disadvantaged young people,” commented Ian Jeffers • stage a final presentation “Unemployment can have a brutal impact on young people, • get help with job interviews and preparing their CVs with thousands suffering from mental‐health problems, The programme consists of 2 weeks training followed by 9 self‐loathing and panic attacks.” But it needn’t be all doom days work experience. and gloom. Jeffers believes that the programmes delivered by The Trust provide the vital support and encouragement What’s in it for you? that young people need. • The opportunity to assist the local community, thereby demonstrating social responsibility “We have developed a very successful programme that Offering a development opportunity to current employees breaks the vicious circle of no work experience and no as ‘buddies’ qualifications. The Get Into programmes give young people aged 16 to 25 who are work ready, but do not have Accessing a potential new recruit vocational skills, a mixture of practical training and The opportunity for PR‐ successes can make local ‘good experience that will enable them to get a job in sectors news stories’ including retail, catering, social care, food processing and The opportunity to attend the final graduation in UTV construction. To support our next programme – Get Into Studios, Ormeau Road, Belfast on 7th October. Retail, I want to engage with retailers that could provide two weeks work experience and be real role models to our And, an extra pair of hands! young people.” The Prince’s Trust Northern Ireland aims to support over 3000 disadvantaged young people this year and it can only In partnership with People 1st The Trust is running a Get do this with the support of local businesses. into Retail in Belfast from September 12th to October 7th If you are interested in providing some work experience and work experience opportunities are required from 26th either for this programme or later in the year, please September. contact Debbie or Aoife on 028 90758128.
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NIIRTA Summer Parliamentary Reception
NIIRTA held a summer Parliamentary Reception in the NI Assembly’s Senate Chamber which was attended by over 150 MLAs , NIIRTA members and guests. At the reception NIIRTA launched its Independents Day Pledge and heard about Finance Minister Sammy Wilson’s plans to expand the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme.
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson MP, NIIRTA Chair, Paddy Doody, Glyn Roberts and David Strahan MD Phoenix Supply (Kevin Cooper Photography)
The Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association “We strongly welcome the fair rates levy proposals and has called for a radical pro‐business Programme for extension of the Small Business Rate Relief scheme launched Government to be produced and launched the Independence recently by the Finance Minister and would urge our entire Day Pledge to encourage shoppers to buy only from small business sector to write in to support these proposals. Independent Retail on the recent Independence Day. Because no matter what town I visit I hear the same concerns about small traders struggling to pay their rates bill. Its call was made at the NIIRTA Summer Parliamentary Reception at Stormont, hosted by Finance Minister Sammy “A fundamental review of the proposed additional on street Wilson MLA and attended by over 150 MLAs and leading car park charges in our 30 towns is now taking place by the members of the local business community. new DRD Minister and we are very hopeful that these charges will be dropped. Glyn Roberts NIIRTA Chief Executive speaking at the event said: “I firmly belief that at long last the tide is beginning to “Planning Service is now rejecting a larger number of turn in favour of a level playing field for our independent unsustainable out of town superstore applications by the sector and our town centres. multiples”
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NIIRTA Parliamentary Reception in the Senate Chamber (Kevin Cooper Photography)
“We want to see a new partnership between multiple & independent retailers to invest in our town centres, offer real choice to the consumer and above all build up our private sector toward a sustainable economic recovery. I hope with the launch of the NI Retail Consortium we can achieve that partnership.
“We want to see an even more radical pro‐business Programme for Government developed by the Executive which enables our small business and independent retail sector to be at the cutting edge of a new open and prosperous economy.
“Our town centres should be designated Enterprise Zones in which every Government Department can pull out all the stops to get investment and create new jobs to create 21st Century towns that are centres of retail excellence. “We also want to see the Executive produce a multi‐ department Small Business Act which removes the barriers to growth for our small business sector such as red tape, and access to finance.”
Employment & Learning Minister Stephen Farry MLA, Skillsmart Sammy Wilson MP MLA Minister for Finance & Personnel Retails Neil Moss and Glyn Roberts launching the Independence said: “Independent retailers are often at the heart of local Day pledge at the Summer Reception (Kevin Cooper Photography)
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economies in cities and towns, throughout Northern Ireland. They provide local services and are a source of much needed employment while contributing significantly to the local character of many areas.
“However, I also recognise that these have been challenging times for many businesses. The recession has dented consumer confidence while the increase in out of town shopping has impacted on traditional smaller independent retailers.
“That is why I am seeking to support local retailers by expanding the Small Business Rate Relief scheme.” David Strahan, MD Phoenix Supply, UUP Enterprise Spokesperson, Mike Nesbitt MLA and Glyn Roberts at the reception (Kevin Cooper The Finance Minister encouraged the Association and its Photography) members to respond to the DFP consultation paper on dealing with the expansion of the small business rate relief scheme and the large retail levy. The consultation was published on Tuesday 28 June 2011.
The Minister continued: “I recently published proposals on the changes I would like to make. These proposals are all about finding balance and co‐existence in the market place. It is not about favouring small over large. I want to create conditions where small businesses can survive in these difficult times.
“I would urge all those interested parties to respond to this consultation to help inform the development of future policy.” David Strahan, MD Phoenix Supply, Sinn Fein MLA Jennifer McCann and Glyn Roberts at the reception (Kevin Cooper Photography)
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson MP addressed the Reception in the Senate Chamber (Kevin Cooper Photography)
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Perry Street, Dungannon – NI’s first virtual high street! Perry Street in Dungannon has been transformed from a run down terrace of derelict and boarded up properties into a living street, complete with new and inviting “interiors” seen through the refurbished shop windows.
The Virtual Window Scheme involved fake and there is a storyboard about by the before and after images. the painting and tidying up of derelict the project. The project has generated plenty of properties and the installation of interest at a local regional and national pictorial scenes into boarded‐up Perry Street is situated on the one of level, benefitting existing businesses in window openings to create a “living” the main thoroughfares into the town Perry Street by attracting more visitors appearance and street scene. and within the Town Conservation and shoppers while reducing Area and therefore the graphics were vandalism. Such schemes contribute to The pilot project was developed and carefully selected in keeping with the overall regeneration and funded by Dungannon and South traditional design. development of Dungannon town. This Tyrone Borough Council in is an exciting and unique approach to partnership with Dungannon Passers by will also see a cat and a dog attracting investment and one which is Regeneration Partnership (DRP), peeking out of the windows. Visitors brand new to Northern Ireland. Dungannon Enterprise Centre and the are invited to find the butterflies, a Department for Social Development symbol of the rebirth and rejuvenation Further information: Paul McCreedy, (DSD) in response to the problem of of Dungannon Town Centre, hiding in Town Development Manager, dereliction and under‐investment in the shop windows. Dungannon and South Tyrone this area of Dungannon town centre. Borough council, 15 Circular Road, Thirteen individual, run‐down This work undertaken has provided an Dungannon, Co.Tyrone BT71 6DT. Tel: properties were transformed into enormous uplift to what had been a very 028 8772 8602. E‐mail: colourful book shops, gift shops, run‐down street scene as demonstrated [email protected]. galleries, cosy houses and restaurants through a variety of virtual window graphics; the aim being to transform the visual appearance of the properties and to generate private sector interest in the site.
The images disguise parts of the street, giving the impression the units are occupied and present an impression of what Perry Street could look like if fully redeveloped and occupied. Only on closer inspection do passers by realise the fronts are Glyn Roberts with Town Centre Managers visiting Perry Street
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Smart recruiting in recession
By Kim Johnston HOPEFULLY many of you reading this are successfully weathering the economic storm. Maybe some of you are emerging from the downturn in better shape than you could have anticipated, having restructured to adapt to the uncertain climate.
If you are one of those businesses in underestimated. There needs to be a the fortunate position of being able to systematic and deliberate approach to recruit new staff, make sure you attract, develop and retain people with approach this with the same care that the aptitude and abilities to meet both you have taken to steer your company the current and future operational through the downturn. needs of your business. candidate, and who has the contacts to Getting the right person in a recession The thing is though, good people don’t find this person can be invaluable. isn’t as easy as it sounds though. Yes, necessarily move for money, and they’re there are a lot of unemployed people not necessarily looking at job boards – It takes careful evaluation, and time to there for the picking, but finding the often they’re getting on with their work, do this. Getting the right combination of right one amongst a deluge of CVs can doing a good job for the organisation skills, experience and personality that be like finding the proverbial needle in they’re currently working for. will match your culture is a skill in itself. the haystack! So, how do you get hold of the right If you get it right though, you stand to The people in your organisation are person, if they’re not answering your enhance your productivity and certainly your greatest asset. Its what ad and may not even be looking to performance, keeping you a step has carried you through this far, and its move? Not an easy question to answer. ahead of the pack as we move forward what will drive the business forward. in these uncertain times. So it’s too important to get it wrong. It takes expertise to identify and then attract the right person for the job. For further information visit The importance of talented Using a Head Hunter who will www.kimjohnston.co.uk or email: management shouldn’t be proactively search for your ideal [email protected]
NIIRTA has signed up to the Grow NI Campaign which a coalition of over 25 business groups to call for a reduction in Corporation Tax for Northern Ireland. Picture shows Mervyn McCall, IoD Chairman, Eamonn Donaghy, Grow NI Chair, Francis Martin Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce President, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Owen Paterson MP, Ian Coulter CBI Vice Chairman and Glyn Roberts NIIRTA CEO at the Grow NI launch.
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Caem Store –Designing for Retailers
Caem Store Design Ltd started out as Medicare, Original Factory Shop, Store Design and Display Centre in the Palmer & Harvey (Your Store) and early 70s when it was sole distributer Wineflair. of Peugeot shelving and has come a long way since then. When Peugeot A recent project of note that was stopped producing shelving, Store carried out by the company was for Design and Display Centre sourced Island Wines in Islandmagee, where and became sole agent in Northern the brief was to come up with a Ireland for Italian shelving system modern, warm and inviting interior to Caem. Today, known as Caem Store accommodate Island Wines customer Design Ltd, it has evolved from a base. At the location the silver shelving company that was purely involved contrasting with walnut facade and with the supply and fitting of metal stylish graphics provided a very shelving to become one of Northern homely welcoming atmosphere. Ireland’s foremost Design and Shopfit companies. A second project involved work in Scotland where CSD was pleased to Many of the leading retailers in continue their work for Gordon’s Northern Ireland entrust Caem Store Chemists. This contract involved Design to the company and CSD working closely with Gordon’s prides itself on the partnership Island Wines Management team to design and fit the between design quality and quality of best retail layout solution possible, it service that it can offer. Caem Store team who are well versed with current came about as a result of the high Design are fully aware of the trends in the industry. All designs are standard of workmanship that was importance of working closely with produced using CAD software and evident in the work carried out by customers and to this end the provide customers with a perfect Caem Store Design at the Gordon’s company can provide a package of illustration of how their fit out will branches throughout Northern services from an initial survey of the look upon completion. Ireland. client’s premises right through to CAD drawings, mood boards & computer Caem Store Design can make bespoke For further information please contact generated 3D presentation walk‐ items in its workshops and employ our office on (028) 9084 9228 throughs. The range of products higly skilled tradesmen to ensure that or email: [email protected] provided by CSD is extensive and can all products are made to the highest www.caemstoredesign.com be used in applications such as Retail quality. Offering a full turnkey outlets, Cafés, Offices and Reception package CSD will take care of areas. As well as being flexible in the everything including building work, applications that their shelving can be ceilings, painting & decorating, used for CSD’s shelving comes in a electrics & lighting, flooring, joinery, fabulous range of colours and can be plumbing, shopfronts, shutters and dressed with timber or graphics to signage. suit its surrounding environment. Moreover CSD always keep shelving in Caem Store Design Ltd pride itself on stock and as a result can provide a securing repeat business, and is responsive service should a customer delighted with its continuing need sundry items. relationship with many of the major retail groups in Northern Ireland. If we now move on to the range of These include Gordon’s Chemists, design tools that Caem Store Design Hendersons Group (Spar, Euro Spar, has at its disposal we find that the Vivo & Vivo Xtra), Maxol Group, company has a young, dynamic design Gordons Chemists
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Training to be Queen Official figures from the Office for National Statistics have shown that UK retail sales fell 1.4% in May. This, coupled with the rise in the cost of raw materials such as cotton has increased the competitive nature of the retail industry. Sales Director Alistair McCall commented; “As an Investor in People company we are continually seeking ways to improve. Our sales team is very committed to our customers and we believe SERC and the National Skills Academy for Retail can offer us a fresh insight to hone our approach. We look forward to taking part in the Mary Portas guide to successful retailing master classes and the benefits it can bring to our company and more importantly our customers.”
Suzi Donnelly, SERC lecturer and Northern Ireland’s first qualified WorldHost Master Trainer for Retail, a new customer service programme, had Serving up a treat - Suzi Donnelly, SERC lecturer and Northern Ireland’s first qualified this to say; “At SERC we recognise the WorldHost Master Trainer for Retail, a new customer service programme is pictured along importance of retail training. The Mary with McCalls of Lisburn Sales Director Alistair McCall at the launch of the Mary Portas retail training programme Portas guide to successful retailing master classes are very popular Northern Ireland’s first retail skills affecting independent businesses and throughout England and have a proven shop has just been launched with the are based on the expert advice from record of improving business aim of improving the retail experience Mary Portas herself, the famous retail performance. The retail industry is a through better customer service, staff guru. It includes her own advice on highly competitive market and for commitment and enhanced quality. essential elements like visual many, customer service can be the South Eastern Regional College (SERC), merchandising, marketing, buying deciding factor between choosing one in partnership with the National Skills and finance. It is an inspirational retailer over another.” Academy for Retail, has launched the programme combining Mary’s retail Greater Belfast Retail Skills Shop and knowledge and dynamism with Suzi added; “With a recommended is offering a range of exclusive training practical tools and skills that can be retail price of £200 the one day courses opportunities for high street retailers directly applied to any retail business. will be running throughout the year and and independents alike. Amongst the It is ideal for retail businesses such will include the ‘My Shop, My Future’ offering will be the Mary Portas guide as high street boutiques, delicatessens, masterclass, ‘Principles of Customer to successful retailing, a series of convenience stores, home‐ware and Service – Retail’, ‘Sales Powered by master classes where retailers can gift shops and small department Service’, ‘Buying for your Customer’ and learn skills and tips to improve their stores. ‘Marketing for more Customers’.” business inspired by Mary Portas, star of hit television series Mary Queen One independent retailer who has To find out how WorldHost can of Shops. already signed up to avail of this support your business in meeting your fantastic opportunity is McCalls of customers’ expectations, or to sign up The Mary Portas guide to successful Lisburn. An award winning company to the Mary Portas Guide to Retailing retailing master classes were with 55 years of retail experience they email retail‐skills‐[email protected], developed by shop owners and committed to seeking business alternatively visit: www.serc.ac.uk/ managers to impact on the key areas improvement techniques. business/Pages/default.aspx.
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Foundation Degree Contributes to Retail Success
The Northern Regional College (NRC), meet the needs of students already in Commenting on the programme the one of Northern Ireland’s leading employment within the retail sector. President of the Northern Ireland providers of further education is a key The programme provides a better Chamber of Commerce Francis Martin, player in providing the retail sector vocational understanding of the recently said that, “he was delighted to with a new and valuable qualification industry and comprises of twelve see that the Retail Foundation Degree in retailing, the Foundation Degree in units, over two years, which includes has got off to such a good start in Retailing. Personal and Professional Northern Ireland and, with Anne Birt‐Macartney, NRC’s Course Development, Retail Environment, participants in the first year Director for the Foundation Degree in Managing Information, Retail progressing so well, it further Retailing commented, “the degree is Operations, Consumer Behavior, In‐ demonstrates that retail is becoming a particularly suitable for all individuals Store Customer Marketing, Manage profession in its own right. who wish to carve out a professional and Develop People in Retail, Work “The retail sector is becoming career in retailing, SME’s organisations Based Learning, Retail Law, Manage increasingly more important to the and the larger employers within the Retail Customer Service and Northern Ireland economy and it is a sector. Given the economic climate, Leadership in Retail. This work‐based tremendous boost that, on completion there are increasing pressures on programme is supported by group of this Degree, retail employees will retailers small and large to be more seminars and Master Classes. have the skills to make effective competitive and efficient. This degree “NRC is pleased to be part of the management decisions within a retail course provides a platform where consortium of specialist tutors from business and propose critical and students will learn the knowledge and the six Northern Ireland Colleges and effective solutions to complex skills in how to make effective the University of Ulster who deliver problems within a business context.” management and leadership decisions this programme. This unique course and deliver critical and complex was developed using the National To learn more about the Foundation business solutions”. Sector Skills Council (Skillsmart Degree in Retailing programme, The Foundation Degree in Retailing is Retail) framework and in consultation contact NRC at Tel: 02890 855000 ore an innovative part‐time e‐learning with leading retail organisations” Email anne birt‐[email protected] course which has been designed to commented Anne Birt‐Mccartney. or Web:www.nrc.ac.uk Your Local College Can Help You Says New Colleges NI Boss Gerry Campbell Colleges Northern Ireland, the body innovation. Business support extends Colleges. representing the six Regional Colleges, beyond the provision of training and A majority of companies work with is encouraging all of Northern workforce development and includes a colleges through knowledge transfer Ireland’s retailers to look at how their wide range of support activities aimed programmes and other business local college can help them. at improving business competitiveness support services that utilise college and productivity.” expertise and resources to help grow New Colleges NI Chief Executive Gerry their business. These include: Campbell said: “Our colleges offer Practical business support solutions • Invest Northern Ireland Innovation quality options that can support our include: (INI) Voucher Scheme local businesses and help them to • Product Design & Prototyping; • Knowledge Transfer Programmes ‐ become more efficient and grow.” • Lean manufacturing; including KTP & Fusion • Innovation; • Mentoring & Consultancy Northern Ireland’s six Regional • Business Improvement Techniques; • Interact Programme Colleges deliver training to local and • Market Research and Marketing; • ApprenticeshipsNI international companies and provide a • Computer Systems & Software • Manufacture – Innovate – Grow full suite of Business Support Services applications including free Open (MIG) Programme in key areas, including: Source Software options. • Connected Programme • Enterprise, Entrepreneurship & • Invest NI Enterprise Development Business Start‐up The six Regional Colleges supported Programme (EDP) • Training & Workforce Development 4,500 businesses and 20,000 • Knowledge Transfer & Innovation employees/ business To find out more visit your local owners/managers in 2009/10. college or contact Colleges NI: Gerry Campbell added: “Colleges are They provide tailored support e‐mail: [email protected] working with businesses across programmes that can be developed website : www.collegesni.ac.uk Northern Ireland to provide relevant with dedicated College Business Phone: 08290 682296 training and skills and to support Support Units located in each of the Twitter: @CollegesNI
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
New Northern Ireland Strategic Partnership for Responsible Energy Management Three Northern Ireland organisations recently signed a strategic partnership to launch a new Responsible Energy Management (REM) Certification programme that could make Northern Ireland the centre of excellence for energy management.
International ISO money or expertise. REM Certification Body, Global also provides a stepping Trust Certification in stone towards ISO type conjunction with the Centre standards and the scalable for Competitiveness and nature of the programme South Eastern Regional allows multiple sites to be College (SERC) have come certified in a practical, cost together to form this effective manner.” Strategic Partnership. Bob Barbour of the Centre Global Trust have already for Competitiveness, the have had success with a consultancy partner for REM similar certification model stated that, “The REM for sustainability programme delivers an end management which has now to end solution that will led to sustainability projects leave a lasting legacy due to in over 26 countries. the focus on best practice energy management, The new Energy continuous improvement Management Program has and cost savings. This will been set up to deliver cost significantly enhance the savings and green competitiveness of client credentials for organisations.” organisations across the island of Ireland and Thompson Keating of SERC, internationally through a the training partner for straightforward and cost REM commented that, “REM effective process for energy training through the management. This new Environmental skills centre offering can be an effective at SERC will provide the addition to existing opportunity to equip “the REM program already More Information: operating and marketing individuals and has a range of interested Mr Phil Vernon, Global Trust strategies for all types of organisations with the skills parties across the retail, Tel: 0044 2890662715 organisations. required to manage energy manufacturing, construction Email: effectively which will lead to and food processing [email protected] David Browne of Global further employment sectors,” and would Mr Michael Smith, Centre Trust commented that, “We opportunities for many encourage any for Competitiveness Tel are pleased to be offering a within the NI economy.” organisations interested in 0044 2890737950 Email service that enables the REM certification [email protected] organisations to capitalise Phil Vernon, Business programme to take the first Mr Thompson Keating, on the benefits of energy Development Manager of step towards energy SERC Tel 004428 91276695 management without Global Trust and the REM efficiency by contacting any Email [email protected] requiring significant time, Program highlighted that, of the Partners.
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Vitality to Our Communities Article by Máirtín Ó Muilleoir A key priority for Belfast City councillors in the time ahead is to create the new thoroughfares which bring life and vitality to our communities.
As traders come under pressure — Instead of the butcher’s, baker’s and onerous rates, internet shopping, fruit and veg shop of old, you’re as tighter grips on purses and wallets — likely to have a craft shop, a gallery, a we have to come up with innovative fitness club, a dance troupe, a tourist and radically new ways to help them information spot, and a community survive and thrive. hub, filling in the spaces between our merchants’ storefronts. But these This much is clear: our arterial routes reborn and recrafted arterial routes are not coming back as retail‐only will be rich with footfall, purchasing environments. However, even as the power and ambition. empty shopfronts become ever‐more Glyn Roberts, Cllr Máirtín Ó Muilleoir and conspicuous, the search for a new type They will be places your future South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey on a recent of community high street could bring customers want to visit. visit to the Lisburn Road benefits to those businesses which see architectural practice with its stunning it through this economic downturn. How will we get there: by encouraging shopfront space and that great jewel (with funding) the networks of adapting to the times in which we For the thoroughfares of the new traders, craftworkers, small strive, the Arcadia Deli. Only one of Belfast will be hubs of community and businesses and merchants to build that troika is a retailer but together connectivity (and, no, I don’t mean their strength and their offering. By they form the basis of the high street digitally‐wired. They’ll be that of filling in the gaps with Council‐ of tomorrow on which our retailers course but they’ll also connect our supported newbuild projects designed will depend. people and our neighourhoods), to make our main roads boom again boasting all types of ingenious (in the right way!). What will this Máirtín Ó Muilleoir is an entrepreneur, endeavour. They will be hotbeds of future look like: take a dander along publisher of several newspapers and entrepreneurship, cultural vibrancy, the Lisburn Road next time you’re websites and Sinn Féin councillor for sporting endeavour and, thankfully, about and admire the new Agape Balmoral. You can follow him on retail activity. community complex, the Paperclip www.twitter.com/newbelfast
NIIRTA CEO Glyn Roberts visiting Diane Dodds MEP at her Balmoral Show stand
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
East Belfast MLA Robin Newton opening Sweet Thing It’s A Sweet Thing with owner Emma Dunn
It was this time last year that I took the moment and to try and capture some of decision to open a sweet shop. I had been in that feeling which we all remember from the same job for six years and wasn’t when we were small. I literally wanted to finding it much fun being a Credit make people feel like they were a kid in a Controller in the middle of a recession! So I sweet shop! I sell quite a varied selection of began to seriously formulate the idea and sweets from the traditional Belfast look for a location. My mother has had a favourites like Brandy Balls and Buttered many of the products that I stock have been business on the Belmont Road for over Brazils through the sweets I remember brought in because they have been twenty years so it seemed like an obvious growing up like Kola Kubes and Sports requested by my customers – meaning that choice to seek out premises on a road I Mixture to the sweets that children like people from East Belfast don’t have to knew well. There were a few vacant shops today such as Blue Raspberry Bon Bons and travel too far for their favourite sweet. and after some negotiations I agreed to Football Gums. Independent Retailers with shops like mine take a lease on a three storey building I finally opened on the 5th of December are vital to the local community as we are which had formerly been an insurance 2010 and began trading. Unfortunately this more accountable to our customers and the office. month was also the coldest December in 21 people of the wider community. We also I still hadn’t settled on a name but on one of years so what with the cold and snow ensure the unique character of an area my final mornings driving up the M2 to my trading was difficult to say the least! which is particularly relevant on the previous job I put Van Morrison’s “Astral I have now been open for nine months. It Belmont Road as it has formed the Weeks” CD on and the song “Sweet Thing” has been much more difficult than I shopping heart of Strandtown Village for came on. Hence the name was chosen. expected ‐ in fact had I known how difficult well over 100 years. I personally also like to After getting the shop fitted out and it would be I’m not sure if I would have source local products wherever possible so decorated the way I wanted it came to the made the leap. Trading conditions are still I have a variety of products including fudge fun part of picking all the sweets. I challenging and I expect them to remain so and chocolate which are locally made in managed to track down a great supplier for the foreseeable future. Having said that East Belfast. who brings in all kinds of weird and it’s great fun sourcing and sampling all the wonderful sweets and what this man sweets, and I really enjoy the look on For further information please visit doesn’t know about sweets isn’t worth people’s faces when they come into my www.sweetthingbelfast.co.uk or better still, knowing! I had decided to mainly tap into shop and find that I stock a particular sweet visit our shop: Sweet Thing, 21 Belmont the retro market which is very big at the that they haven’t seen for years. In fact Road, Belfast BT4 2AA 1830 Niirta News_Layout 3 20/09/2011 16:33 Page 21
NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Turn to Your Industry Charity for Personal Help and Guidance
Your industry charity, Caravan, is able Uniquely, the Caravan Helpline offers a to help anyone in the grocery industry, telephone counselling service for from factory to shop floor, who is people who have experienced worried about their finances, feelings incidents which are harmful, stressed or is experiencing problems threatening or challenging. Callers will whether at home or at work. be asked to briefly recount, but not relive, the incident with trained Caravan can help: by talking the counsellors, who will be able to talk situation through with one of our through ways of coping with the trained advisors via phone, email or situation and help them to deal with online. For people who prefer not to any related emotional issues. An ask for help, or may never pick up a online counselling service is also phone to get support, there is a web‐ available and can be found with the based range of self‐help tools and Helpline website. advice, including online chat. The Caravan Helpline is available 24 The Caravan Helpline provides general hours a day, seven days a week and is support and information in key areas, issues; financial support including open to all who work in the grocery for example: personal issues, including benefits information; and a industry, from the factory to the shop family, children and relationships; counselling service. There is also a floor. You can access it online at career support including working wide range of factsheets which cover www.caravan‐charity.org.uk/helpline relationships; people skills; health and an ever‐increasing range of subjects or by calling freephone 08088 021122. mental health issues; some legal from debt to career management.
Health Minister announces next steps to introduce tobacco display ban Health Minister Edwin young people are still in view of the ongoing legal further announcement will Poots has announced the taking up this life‐limiting challenges to the be made in due course. I next steps for the habit each year. By equivalent regulations in must stress that retailers introduction of controls on removing displays of England, I have decided will be informed of the final regulating the sale of tobacco products from that the display ban commencement date as tobacco products in view in shops, and regulations will not be soon as possible, to allow Northern Ireland. preventing children from commenced in Northern necessary adaptations to accessing them through Ireland until Spring 2012 at be made to their premises.” The Minister reaffirmed his vending machines, we are the earliest. With regards commitment to introducing building upon measures to regulations banning The Minister added that his regulations in Northern already in place aimed at tobacco sales from vending Department had made Ireland to ban the display reducing the prevalence of machines, I hope to some amendments to the of tobacco products at smoking.” introduce these from 1 draft regulations to bring point of sale and sales from February 2012. them into line with changes tobacco vending machines. Commenting on when the proposed to the English regulations would be “My Department continues regulations. He said: “It is Minister Poots said: introduced, the Minister to follow the legal hoped that these “Despite all the available said: “After taking into challenges, with a view to amendments will facilitate evidence on the harm consideration views from making the regulations as retailers in complying with caused by smoking, stakeholders during the soon as possible once the the legislation.” hundreds of children and consultation process, and legal position is clear, and a
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland Launches Masterplan for Bangor Town Centre
Nelson McCausland said: “Bangor has Street and Hamilton Street with the people that played a part in many qualities such as its strong new unique lighting to signal a helping to develop this document.” maritime history, rich Christian bright and vibrant town centre; heritage and built environment. The and Mayor of North Down Council, masterplan shows how the town • Making the town centre both more Councillor James McKerrow said: “The centre can build on these assets to cycle and pedestrian friendly and Council is delighted to see the launch create an exciting and dynamic place carrying out junction improvements of the Bangor Town Centre where the waterfront and town meet. to Main Street and Hamilton Road Masterplan. I would like to thank the By creating a rich mix of uses and to reduce congestion. members of the Masterplan Advisory activities the Masterplan shows how it Group for their hard work in preparing is possible to create a diverse town this document, which provides a vision centre that people will want to visit for regeneration for the next 20 years. and where business want to locate and Many local people contributed their grow. Re‐establishing Bangor as a thoughts during the consultation vibrant and high quality thriving process and as a result we have a tourist destination can be achieved document that represents our widest through the implementation of the aspirations for the town. regeneration proposals identified in the masterplan.” “These are challenging economic times, however the Council is The masterplan sets out the vision and committed to town centre plan for Bangor town centre and the regeneration. We are spending masterplan proposals include: £1.6million on the redevelopment of • creating a world class waterfront Pickie Family Fun Park at Bangor by capitalising on the marina and Marina – work will start in September developing a ‘necklace of activities’ – which I am confident will act as a around the promenade; catalyst to attract further new • redevelopment of the Queen’s investment. We look forward to Parade site for high quality retail, working with all our public and offices and homes that will act as private sector partners to see the the catalyst for regeneration Masterplan being implemented in the throughout the town centre. months and years ahead.” • The development of a new hotel / theatre at the waterfront adjacent Glyn Roberts NIIRTA Chief Executive to a major new plaza for major who attended the launch said: events and markets that can be “This is an excellent document which used for parking when no events Minister McCaulsand continued: “In highlights a coherent Retail and are planned; the current challenging economic Tourism led regeneration programme • Creating a tree lined avenue along times, now is the right time to set out for Bangor Town Centre and its the length of Abbey Street with how Bangor plans to grow and seafront” new gateway features at the prosper for coming generations. The entrance to the town and at the masterplan proposals published today “Key to the success of this Master Plan various roundabouts town. provide a realistic vision of how the is attracting more retailers to Bangor • The redevelopment of Pickie Fun town can make the best use of its Town Centre, to improve upon its Park; unique features and secure its ongoing overall retail offer to stimulate the • New environmental improvements success and prosperity. This is good local economy of North Down as a along the length Main Street, High news for Bangor and I want thank all whole”
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Growing your business abroad NIIRTA Benefits of Membership Do you have a News Story? Contact NIIRTA with the details and we’ll cover it if we can! What is NIIRTA? It’s not just a lobbying body – it’s a trade association with an excellent range of services and benefits available to members. What can NIIRTA do for you? NIIRTA can provide retailers with advice on a whole John McKee range of issues – from rates reductions and car parking to crime prevention and legislation information. Domestic market challenges open the door for business opportunities abroad. Here’s a list of what’s on The challenging times faced by Northern Ireland retail SMEs are both oft quoted and offer from NIIRTA... well documented. Economic downturn, globalization and the purchasing power of NIIRTA News – a regular corporate rivals have combined to markedly erode the margins previously achieved by update on issues affecting local retailers. But amidst the troubling stories of empty high streets and businesses in you! receivership, innovative retailers are beginning to learn that challenge is the Public Affairs – NIIRTA is the voice at Government opportunity for greatness. Furthermore, with the contraction of domestic demand, level on all issues affecting many retailers are realizing that the greatest opportunities lie abroad. Exports are your business widely regarded as an essential component of a healthy Northern Ireland economy NIIRTA Advice Helpline Business development specialists Linkubator provide business consultancy and 028 9022 0004 – strategic support for Northern Ireland businesses and SMEs. Led by the father and son Available 9.00-5.00 – Monday to Friday – for team of Will and John McKee, Linkubator’s mantra is ‘building better business’. specific advice on Recently, Linkubator have been working with local retail organizations to help them employment and other win sales outside of Northern Ireland. issues. Linkubator’s Managing Director John McKee believes that Northern Ireland retailers HCMA – a sickness and are ideally suited to embracing the export challenge and achieving sales abroad: “The injury scheme similar to BUPA – contact NIIRTA for conventional view was once that only large publicly traded companies had the details or telephone 01423 resources to export their goods. But the reality is that independent retailers in 866985 (and quote NIIRTA). Northern Ireland are the ones who are sufficiently flexible to respond to market Willis Insurance – changes and meet demand profitably. What is required of our business leaders is the Property insurance at courage to pursue these opportunities.” competitive rates – Contact NIIRTA or Ian McClure at The Linkubator Senior Management Sales Programme helps business organizations Willis Insurance – 028 9089 bridge the gap between the margins they face in the domestic market and the revenues 5068 and mobile 07961 that could be generated in the export market. This intensive part‐time programme 453303 combines group based learning and one‐to‐one mentoring in order to provide business XACT – Health & Safety/Food Management leaders with unique tools to penetrate sales barriers and explore new revenue System available at opportunities for their goods and services whether at home or abroad. If you want to competitive rates – ‘No learn how to establish logistics in foreign territory, leverage your selling proposition with Obligation’ audit facility multinational buyers and learn how to conduct sales negotiations on the world stage, available to NIIRTA members. Contact Xact on Linkubator is here to provide you with the tools to achieve your export goals. 0845 665 3006. Register your interest now in the Senior Management Sales Programme in order to receive a complimentary copy of Will and John McKee’s book Star: Leadership Follow us on Behaviours For Stellar SME Growth. Simply send your details to [email protected] Facebook and Twitter or contact John McKee on 028 94466532.
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NIIRTA News ‐ Autumn 2011
Sinn Fein Ard Fheis For the first time NIIRTA had an exhibition stand at this year’s Ard Fheis which came to Belfast’s Waterfront Hall for the first time. Senior Sinn Fein Ministers and representatives visited the stand and were updated on NIIRTA’s ongoing lobbying activities. NIIRTA will also be doing similar events at the forthcoming UUP, SDLP, DUP & Alliance Party conferences.
Sinn Fein Irish Presidential Candidate Martin McGuinness MP & Glyn Roberts
Glyn Roberts with Michelle Gildernew MP, Chair of the Assembly Health Committee
Caral NI Chuilin MLA, Minister for Culture, Arts & Leisure Glyn Roberts with Acting deputy First Minister & Education Minister and Glyn Roberts John O’Dowd MLA