Source: Punch Newspaper
International Breweries Plc Advances Entrepreneurship with the 2024 Retailer Development Programme
International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), a subsidiary of AB InBev, has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic advancement in Nigeria through its ongoing 2024 Retailer Development Programme (RDP), also known as the Growing Retailers Innovatively Together (GRIT) initiative. The program is designed to empower 1,000 retailers with the skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive business environment.
In a statement, IBPLC explained that the month-long training program, initiated by AB InBev and rolled out across various African markets, is aimed at strengthening entrepreneurial capacities, enhancing financial inclusion, and promoting sustainable growth among its extensive network of retailers.
The program, which has already trained approximately 800 retailers in Nigeria, focuses on five key markets: Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Ilesha, Lagos, and Sagamu. The company aims to reach a total of 1,000 participants by the end of 2024. Built on the pillars of Inclusion, Education, and Growth, the initiative offers tailored mentorship, training, and coaching designed to foster innovation and encourage economic growth through the development of critical business skills.
Leadership Insights
Carlos Coutino, Managing Director of IBPLC, underscored the significance of small businesses in supporting local economies:
“Thriving small businesses serve as the backbone of local communities, driving economic development by creating jobs, delivering essential services, and fostering innovation. Through the GRIT program, now in its second year, we aim to create meaningful change by equipping retailers with the necessary skills, mentorship, and opportunities to expand. This includes access to digital tools, financing, and other essential resources.”
Coutino further emphasized that achieving sustainable growth and development among retail partners requires more than determination:
“It takes grit and perseverance to achieve entrepreneurial growth and sustainability. By supporting our retail partners, we not only empower them but also ensure that International Breweries continues to build a future filled with opportunities and success for all stakeholders.”
Temitope Oguntokun, Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director of IBPLC, highlighted the broader impact of entrepreneurship across the company’s value chain:
“Entrepreneurship is about empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across our value chain, from farmers to retailers. Strengthening our retailers supports their communities and drives sustainable economic growth. GRIT symbolizes our collective commitment to creating shared value and making a positive impact together.”
Speaking to the retailers, Nicholas Kade, National Sales Director of IBPLC, reinforced the mutual benefits of the program:
“When our retailers grow, we grow as well. This training equips you with the tools and strategies necessary to help your businesses thrive. In doing so, we all contribute to the socio-economic development of Nigeria.”
Participant Testimonials
Participants in the GRIT program have expressed their appreciation for the insights and opportunities provided.
Samuel Onyeulor, General Manager of Retta Park Hotel and one of the participants, shared his experience:
“The training has introduced me to a range of new perspectives, allowing me to learn, unlearn, and relearn key business practices. Additionally, it has provided me with a platform to network, exchange ideas, and adopt best practices that will enhance my business operations.”
Through the 2024 Retailer Development Programme, International Breweries Plc continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering small businesses, strengthening communities, and fostering economic growth. By equipping retailers with essential skills and resources, the GRIT initiative is playing a vital role in supporting entrepreneurship and driving sustainable development across Nigeria.
