First Friday have begun work with yet another high street retailer. Home furnishings and accessories store The Pier, has engaged First Friday to create a bespoke training programme for first level stock allocators, assistant merchandisers and graduates in the Buying and Merchandising team. The training programme will focus on providing a best practice template for new and junior members of the team and will encourage individuals to take responsibility for their own development over a twelve month period.

Traditionally The Pier had provided on-the-job training for its merchandising teams, but decided that a more structured programme was required to enhance the level and depth of training offered. The Pier believes that investing in the First Friday training programme is vital for creating a best practice model that allows individuals to progress and become competent within a short time-frame. The training programme is also expected to increase the productivity levels of the team and improve the retention of staff.

The First Friday programme will allow individuals to monitor their own progress and take responsibility for their development with a practical workbook that will take new starters through the twelve month plan. The workbook will provide a structure for both the individual and line manager, allowing progress to be monitored by both. It also gives management a focus for how to develop an individual when they arrive at the company.

Robin Turner, Managing Director of First Friday comments. ‘The productivity levels of teams and individuals can be significantly increased when a structured training programme is tailored to a specific role and requirement. Individuals also view the programme as an investment in their future by the Company’. He continues, ‘We are working with more and more retailers who are making an investment in job-based training programmes as a way to make productivity gains and keep their staff motivated’.

Fiona Robinson, Buying and Merchandising Director at The Pier commented, ‘We liked the fact that the First Friday team were all from a senior level retail background, they had lots of first hand experiences that echoed The Pier’s situation. They understood our frustrations and provided a refreshingly honest approach’.