ABC Bank partnered with Retail Trade Association of Kenya (Retrak) in organizing the first Retail Academy in Nairobi on Thursday 21 July. The forum was aimed at building the capacity of local retailers to improve the business practice in Kenya.
The inaugural event, which is set to be an annual event, drew experts from the UK, India, and the Arab Emirates who shared business experiences and knowledge from international markets.
Speaking to the academy, ABC Bank’s Head of SME Banking Lee Gachomba noted that the financial services sector and the retail sector in Kenya share a lot of synergies and opportunities for growth.
“We are ready to partner with you in either your supply chain or cash flow needs to power your business to realize the immense possibilities that the current business environment in Kenya provides”, pledged Mr. Gachomba.
ABC Bank has over the years supported Retrak’s events as part of its agenda to empower the SME sector growth through tailor-made financial products and services such as invoice discounting, term loans, over drafts and asset financing.
The academy was taking place the same time the week-long 14th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNACTAD) is underway in Nairobi.
“This Retail Academy provides an opportunity for retail sector players to look for ways to innovate and improve business practices, create more employment opportunities and generate more revenue for the economy”, noted Retrak CEO Wambui Mbarire.
Retrak is the voice and umbrella body that champions the interests of the retail industry in Kenya.