BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
ActSmart, writing for BikeBiz, says that one of the most valuable resources bikes shops have is their staff…
"Following one of the most challenging seasons for UK retail, now is the critical time to invest in our most important USP, our people.
The ‘dark months’ may prove even darker this year as the economic malaise rolls on, but the key differentiator for retailers will be the quality of skills and customer service that staff bring to the shop floor throughout both the winter and then into 2013.
Cycle workshops are proven to be the most resilient and profitable parts of the cycle retail business and Cytech, the industry-owned training programme, is committed to making skills development even easier. Now the whole industry can get Cytech qualified wherever and whenever suits the cycle dealer. Dealers can simply visit cytechtheoryone.co.uk and complete the course online. Accreditation includes certification and directory listing.
Cytech will be opening a fourth training centre in the South East this winter to add to the established centres in Aylesbury and Stafford operated by ATG Training and in Milton Keynes by PJCS. The Cytech Apprenticeship programme is being aggressively expanded with the added benefit of Government-funded support and full recognition of apprenticeship skills available through Cytech.
ATG Training is launching a smartphone app for iPhone and android phones which will animate the ‘M’ check and provide a quick guide to bike maintenance. Incorporating video and graphic tutorials, plus a layered quiz to test out your technical knowledge, this free app is a must for everyone in the trade.
All of these developments will see businesses and the individuals with Cytech qualifications benefit from increased consumer promotion. Check that your business and personal entry at cytechretaildirectory.co.uk is fully up to date to optimise your promotional opportunities.
So whilst internet retail continues to grow, along with the blurring of brand distribution boundaries, our people and the unique service that we deliver in store, will always set us apart from the crowds.
Find out more at the ACT’s Cytech stand F60 at The Cycle Show, Birmingham NEC, September 27th to 30th and attend the Cytech Technical presentations (on the stage) taking place throughout the show."
