Free workshops to boost Rochdale’s retails and hospitality sectors

Rochdale Development Agency has unveiled a series of free workshops aimed at bolstering the retail and hospitality sectors. Fully funded by Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Development Agency, and the UK Government, these workshops provide a rare opportunity for businesses in the borough to enhance their skills and thrive in a competitive market.

Rochdale has a rich history in retail and hospitality, rooted in its past as a 16th-century trading hub for cloth and yarn and later as a key player in the 19th-century cotton industry.

The town also holds a significant place in history as the birthplace of the co-operative movement, started by the Rochdale Pioneers in 1844 at their shop on Toad Lane. Rochdale’s tradition of independent bars and restaurants further highlights its enduring connection to these sectors.

The workshops are designed to continue this pioneering spirit by equipping local business owners with the skills to flourish. Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of Rochdale Council, said: “This pioneering scheme of funded training courses for our hospitality and retail sectors will really enhance the skills of business owners in Rochdale. I am excited to see how businesses will put what they learn on the courses into action.”

The training sessions, led by industry professionals, cover essential topics such as customer service, visual merchandising, crisis management, and business continuity planning.

Normally costing hundreds of pounds, the workshops are now accessible at no charge, offering a unique chance for local entrepreneurs to upskill and connect with fellow business owners through in-person sessions.

Workshop Schedule

Courses will run from late January to early March, including:

• Monday 27 January – Mindset for Wellbeing and Success
• Monday 3 February – The Customer Journey: Achieving Outstanding Customer Service
• Monday 10 February – Confidence and Communication to Grow Your Business
• Monday 10 February – The Customer Journey: Achieving Outstanding Customer Service
• Monday 17  February – Crisis Management & Resilience Building (Business Continuity Planning and Financial Management)
• Tuesday 18 February – The Customer Journey: Achieving Outstanding Customer Service
• Monday 24 February – The Customer Journey: Achieving Outstanding Customer Service
• Monday 3 March – Visual Merchandising & Window Display
• Tuesday 4 March – Visual Merchandising & Window Display

This initiative is an opportunity for Rochdale’s retail and hospitality businesses to further their success and ensure the town remains a hub of innovation and enterprise. For more information and to secure a place, business owners are encouraged to visit: www.eventbrite.com/cc/retail-hospitality-training-programme-3891553