The Peritum Agri Institute, a Bloemfontein-based training institution that specialises in skills development for the agricultural sector, recently launched a new faculty – the Peritum Agri Retail Academy – that focuses on careers in retail.
By Vida Booysen, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
The faculty offers programmes designed to equip both current and aspiring retail professionals with the skills, insights and innovation needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving marketplace, says Belinda Louw, founding director of the Peritum Agri Institute.
The focus in on retail businesses in the agricultural sector. Louw says it is the first of its kind for the local agricultural industry. “The academy, which is now open for enrolment, works in partnership with industry leaders and education experts to ensure that students gain practical experience and access to mentorship opportunities. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the academy aims to bridge the gap between education and industry needs.”
Qualifications on offer include a career-focused certificate programme for retail supervisors, training for chain store branch managers, and senior-level retail management. A team of experts is also available to design short learning programmes tailored to the culture, needs and dynamics of individual retail businesses.
From Customer Experience to Entrepreneurship
“Retail is not just about transactions. It also requires a delicate balance between managing people, inventory, processes and customer relationships, all while meeting growing consumer expectations and keeping pace with continuous technological advancements,” Louw says. “Our goal is to cultivate a generation of skilled and passionate retailers who will contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy and set global standards for excellence.”
The academy’s training programmes cover a range of focus areas, including customer experience, digital transformation, merchandising, store operations, financial management, marketing, leadership and entrepreneurship.
“To serve our countrywide retail clients and learners across various sectors, Peritum offers these programmes through blended learning, ensuring an effective learning experience at an affordable cost to companies,” Louw says. Classroom and Teams-based sessions are supported by online modules.
Courses at the Peritum Agri Retail Academy are now open for enrolment. To find out more, contact Odette Shepperson on 051 451 1120 or marketing@peritumagri.com
