Retail Pro International, University of Dubai and Dubai Chamber Launch New Retail Certification Series Aiming to Foster Sustained Retail Development in the Middle East

DUBAI, September 14, 2014 - Retail Pro International, together with the University of Dubai and the Dubai Chamber, have partnered to deliver a new Retail Certification Series aimed at fostering sustained retail growth in the Middle East. The training series looks to accomplish this by equipping retailers with today's best practices and progressive strategies for effectively positioning their enterprises for dynamic growth or change. This ongoing certification series will offer two new courses each semester beginning November 2, 2014, presented by the world's top experts in retail strategy and management.

This unique collaboration between Retail Pro International, University of Dubai, and the Dubai Chamber is result of an ongoing collective effort of all three organizations to empower the region’s Emirati in the interest of facilitating and expanding upon the Middle East’s exceptional retail growth over the past two decades. The region continues to be one of the world’s most explosive retail growth markets as investment continues to flow in from domestic and multi-national organizations.

Local retailers recognize that retail technology is a critical driver of success as new markets and retail locations expand throughout the region. Investing in retail technology and expertise, particularly in regards to retail management software, translates to improved operational efficiency and better shopper engagement, both of which are essential for success in the Middle East’s quickly growing and highly competitive retail environments. As mobile technology continues to empower consumers, many retailers are specifically seeking out retail technology solutions that can provide opportunities to better execute their ideal customer engagement strategy.

The two courses offered during the first semester of the Retail Certification Series focus on developing a retail strategy for store management and merchandising. Both will be taught by Dan Jablons, a recognized global retail strategy expert who has worked with retailers such as Walmart, Target, JC Penney, American Apparel, Betsey Johnson and Donna Karan among others. Retail Pro International, who has partnered before with Jablons to deliver retail training and education, continues to reinforce a strong commitment to retail development in the Middle East. During 2014, RPI has opened its first satellite office in Dubai to foster stronger relationships with customers and business partners, and will continue this momentum with the upcoming launch of the Retail Certification Series in November.

Commenting on the agreement, Dr. Eesa Bastaki, President of University of Dubai, said: “The University of Dubai will devote its best resources for this unique project which is aligned with the UD’s educational mission. As part of our commitment to provide education based on quality standards, the university will deliver the new Retail Certification Series to the leading business sector in Dubai and the UAE.” Dr. Bastaki added: “This unique collaboration is the result of the ongoing collective effort led by Dubai Chamber to empower the region’s workforce in retail market.”

“Supporting the development of a sustained, world-class retail culture in the Middle East is a high priority for Retail Pro, and that is obviously an interest shared by many of our trusted partners in the region as well”, explains Kerry Lemos, CEO, Retail Pro International. “It’s no secret that empowering the Emirati with expertise and tools is an essential part of accomplishing this goal, because the Emirati ultimately enable the mechanisms that drive retail success in the Middle East. Our partners at the University of Dubai and the Dubai Chamber agree passionately with this position, and so naturally, we were excited about a collaboration opportunity that would address this need. The semester’s first two courses provide a foundation for future training and focus on retail management and execution, highlighting how both are augmented significantly by retail technology. I’m really optimistic about the outcomes that the Retail Certification Series will produce, and its future prospects.”  


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About Retail Pro International

Retail Pro International, LLC, is a global leader in Point of Sale, Store Operations, and Back-Office software applications for the specialty retail industry. Through its highly-specialized provider network, Retail Pro is delivered locally and supported regionally through over 90 offices worldwide. More than 52,000 retail stores in 87 countries trust Retail Pro to manage their operations; from single stores to prestigious, multinational retailers, Retail Pro is the proven global solution for serious retailers worldwide. To learn more about Retail Pro solutions please visit www.retailpro.com

Media Contact:

Alexandra Frith
Retail Pro International, LLC
916-605-7210