Retail Skills Showcase 10th Year Anniversary

The Central Coast’s biggest retail event, the annual Retail Skills Showcase was held over two days in May with Erina Fair again hosting the event.

250 students studying Retail Operations for their HSC from ten Central Coast High Schools and TAFE competed in teams representing their schools in activities including Visual Merchandising, Aisle Maintenance, Cash Register Communications, Wrapping and Sales Display.

The event, coordinated by Youth Connections Inc., began as a result of the growing retail industry in the region. It provides hands-on industry experience to students, as well as an opportunity to display their talent and flair and interact with potential future employers.

Maggie MacFie, General Manager of Youth Connections Inc., says the Showcase has become an integral part of the school calendar. “Over 80% of young people in the area enter the retail industry as their first profession. Employers were calling for workers with industry related skills and experience and the Showcase provides this for students”, said Ms MacFie.

Thanking the retailers who participated, Ms MacFie said, “Youth Connections Inc. appreciates the support of the following retailers allowing students into their stores to participate in the Visual Merchandising of their windows: Andre John, Autograph, Bloch, Cotton On Kids, Free People, Katies, Little’s Surf Centre, Miller’s Fashion, Mirage Designs, My Size, Portmans, Roger David, Lorna Jane, Tree Of Life, and Woolworths for Aisle Maintenance.”

Ms MacFie also thanked the sponsors for the 2008 Retail Skills Showcase: Department of Education, VET In Schools Directorate, Lend Lease Erina Fair, Central Coast Business Review, Star 104.5 FM, McDonalds, Boost Juice Bars and Youth Connections Inc.

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