Retailer Amarjit Singh, who runs the One Stop store in Alderwood Precinct in Northways, Dudley, has been upskilling his store team with an apprenticeship program, helping them to gain valuable expertise in the retail field, alongside growing his business in the process.
Amarjit worked with the apprenticeship provider Lifetime Training to build a robust programme designed to meet the needs of three members of his staff and the store.
“I’m a strong believer in progression and have supervisors in my store who started with me delivering newspapers. It gives us all great pride to hand over these certificates and celebrate the work our apprentices have done – often during difficult times,” he said.
“Akhil was 17 when he first started helping out part time. It was his first job so he had no experience of working in retail. I expect high standards in my store, but I also wanted to find a way to get Akhil back into education, as he didn’t complete his A Levels. I started to look for apprenticeship schemes and was pleasantly surprised with what is available.”
Amarjit added that Akhil is now pursuing team leader level with Lifetime Training after passing the retailer level.
“Lifetime Training works with all types of industries and there are also government funds available to help get youngsters into work and back into learning. Akhil passed his first level with flying colours, so I asked him what he wanted to do next. He asked for ‘Team Leader’, so this is what he is working towards now. I’m keen to support my team and the new knowledge they bring in keeps things up to date too and maintains their interest whilst they’re working for me,” he said.
There are a number of apprenticeship providers offering opportunities, with Lifetime Training offering the following within the retail sector: Retailer Level 2, Retail Team Leader Level 3 and Retail Manager Level 4.
“There are so many opportunities available for franchisees as well as those who are keen to progress in the retail sector,” John Miller, Head of Franchise at One Stop, commented.
“We really applaud Amarjit for taking the initiative to put members of his team through these apprenticeships, which go right up to an Open University level. Akhil has been able to continue his studies within an environment where he is keen to learn and progress and he is really showing what he is capable of.
“This training means Amarjit now has the staff and experience to take on another store, which is allowing him to grow his business exactly how he wants.”
While Akhil is currently working on Retail Team Leader Level 3, Amarjit’s son, Hardeep and nephew, Gavin are working towards Level 4 having completed Team Leader level 3 and are strengthening their skill set in retail management with a view to being ‘prepped and ready’ to take on another store.
Hardeep has been working in store for five years – mainly in the back office – and Gavin, a graduate accountant was also keen to join the family business.
Amarjit said: “Nothing beats the practical side of knowledge but I’m now able to take more of a back seat in the business. It is enabling me to spend more time with my family and focus on my property projects as I’ve got a team who can run the current store and have the confidence to look to take on another.
“We’re in the process of adding a Post Office to the store services, so we’re continuing to grow in many directions and I’m able to allow my son to lead initiatives now and look at ways to improve the business overall.
“One Stop has been fully supportive throughout the apprenticeship process and Sunil Kumar, our BDM (Business Development Manager) has offered guidance and advice allowing us to move forwards with clarity and pace. I wouldn’t hesitate to offer apprenticeships again as it has been a very rewarding experience for everyone.”
