Peterborough County is aiming to equip business owners with skills and strategies for success with a full-day conference called “The Resilient Retailer,” including a keynote presentation by internationally recognized Canadian retail specialist Barbara Crowhurst.
While the event will shine a spotlight on the retail sector, business owners across all industries — from service and hospitality to manufacturing and beyond — are invited to attend the session on Wednesday, May 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the community hall of the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre at 986 Peterborough County Rd. 10 in Millbrook.
The county describes The Resilient Retailer as a “dynamic one-day event” designed to equip business leaders with the tools they need to remain profitable, adaptable, and competitive in today’s evolving economy.
Sarah Budd, community development manager with Peterborough County’s economic development and tourism team, shared the purpose of the conference with kawarthaNOW.
“Retailers, who are often on our main streets and the heartbeat of our communities, can sometimes feel isolated and on their own without the means and ability to invest in this kind of specialized training offered at this event,” she said.
“By focusing on retail, we’re aiming to support those business owners who are essential to the vibrancy and character of our communities. That being said, all businesses are welcome to register and will benefit from the valuable insights shared by our keynote speaker Barbara Crowhurst.”
The CEO of Retail Makeover, Crowhurst is an internationally recognized retail specialist, business coach, and speaker who has decades of experience working with some of North America’s largest retail corporations and thousands of independent business owners. Crowhurst will share some of her insights into best practices, customer engagement, merchandising, and sustainable growth.
Before Crowhurst’s keynote presentation, the day will begin with presentations on local economic development. Following the keynote presentation, the morning will conclude with information about local initiatives and upcoming business supports for the summer and fall.
After lunch, the day will continue with a panel discussion offering real-world experiences and ideas from business leaders in the region.
“We hope that our main street businesses and retailers leave this event with the tools, resources, and confidence they need to grow their revenue and find long-term success within our communities,” Budd said. “The goal is to equip business owners with practical strategies they can apply to strengthen their operations and better adapt to change.”
Tickets are $30 for Peterborough County retailers and businesses or $45 for those from outside the county, with early-bird prices of $20 and $35 available until May 4. Visit www.ptbocounty.ca/retailevent to register.
Part of “The Local Advantage with Peterborough County” series, the conference is presented in partnership with Community Futures Peterborough.
