Retailer workshop set for Middleton

Businesses in the Middleton and Lawrencetown areas will have a chance to meet with retail experts, share ideas, collaborate, and learn new methods when they get together at a retail workshop October 28 in Middleton.

The Central Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency are hosting the event at the Middleton Subway and have called in facilitator Bernard Smith of Spring Garden Area Merchants’ Association in Halifax. He was the architect behind the revitalization of Spring Graden Road in Halifax.

The free workshop was specifically designed to meet the needs of retailers in the communities of Middleton and Lawrencetown and was organized in recognition of Small Business Week.

“Now more than ever, retailers in rural communities face challenges that require creativity and collaboration,” organizers said. “Now is your opportunity to share your ideas and to learn.”

The objectives of the workshop are to:

· Facilitate networking among the retail community

· Raise awareness of retail trends in North America

· Educate participants on proven methods for success in difficult times

· Explore options available to retailers in small communities

· Develop an action plan to increase the vitality of this sector in Middleton/Lawrencetown

The workshop runs from 1 to 8 p.m. at the Subway private meeting room and is limited to 25 attendees. Early registration is urged by contacting Tracy at the chamber at 765-0344 or by e-mailing cavcc@eastlink.ca