The SPAR Future Leaders Programme is a key event that brings together talent from across the SPAR network to deepen their retail knowledge and leadership skills, while working together for a sustainable SPAR future. This year's programme took place in Bari, Italy, from 22 to 28 June, hosted by DESPAR Italia and DESPAR consortium partner Maiora. Over 35 participants from 16 SPAR licensed organisations attended.

The programme covered the main aspects of the SPAR retail network, including business strategy, commerce, digital, retail design, supply chain, and customer service. It featured daily leadership sessions, a retail strategy workshop, and visits to selected DESPAR stores.

Content experts from SPAR International, DESPAR Italia, and DESPAR consortium partner Maiora shared best practices on diverse topics, including category management, retail store development, retail strategy, data-driven solutions, the use of AI within the organisation, and human resource management, as well as assisted delegates in interactive sessions.

A certified coach led a series of professional leadership sessions to help participants understand their personalities, strengths, weaknesses, behaviours, and motivations. These sessions aimed to improve interactions and enhance leadership skills.

Delegates participated in a team-building exercise to learn to work together as one team while respecting individual differences. During a retail workshop, they developed strategic retail concepts based on case studies and learnings from the programme.

The Future Leaders Programme is a highlight of the SPAR International calendar. It offers participants a great chance to meet and build strong connections. It also showcases the investment of SPAR licensed organisations in developing team members’ skills, recognising people as a crucial part of the business’s success.

Source: SPAR International