A resource to help train people with retail skills has been launched by West London College in partnership with Westfield and the charity Spark!
The West London Retail Skills Hub was unveiled last week (6 June 2024) at Westfield London in White City and supports people of all ages to begin or grow a career in retail.
The Hub is supported by supported by Ethos Farm, Inspire ATA and West London Business and is located directly inside Westfield next to John Lewis.
Karen Redhead OBE, CEO & principal, West London College said: “This exciting initiative opens up invaluable opportunities for communities across the seven boroughs of the region to gain essential skills and experience for a thriving career in retail.”
Ms Redhead added: “By collaborating with local businesses from Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon and Hounslow, the Hub empowers us to further inspire and drive economic success in the region through high-quality education and skills development.”
Katie Wyle, head of shopping centre management, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield said: “Our goal is to not only support our retail tenants by providing well-trained staff but also to inspire job seekers and employees with the diverse opportunities the retail sector offers. Through targeted outreach, recruitment support, and comprehensive training programs, we aim to showcase retail as a viable and exciting career choice.”
Matt Lent, CEO of Spark! added: “This resource is a game changer for retailers and young people alike, connecting employers with their future talent and creating the employability skills and pathways into rewarding careers for young people.”
Jobseekers looking to explore careers in retail can contact the Hub by email retailskillshub@wlc.ac.uk
