Coca-Cola India has helped to upskill 14,000 retailers in the state of Odisha during 2024 through its Super Power Retailer Program.

The programme aims to bring a positive transformation in the retail community of the state by offering industry-specific skills training such as customer management, inventory and stock management and financial management.

A combination of classroom training sessions in Odisha and an online certification programme across India has led to the participation of 14,000 retailers.

Training delivered in local languages has enabled small shopkeepers and big businesses to expand their reach, improve accessibility and better adapt to changing market trends.

The programme was launched on 15 October 2023 by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, the country's Minister for Education and former Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

It is delivered in partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and is integrated with the online training platform Skill Digital India Hub.

NSDC CEO Ved Mani Tiwari commented: "Looking at the retail landscape rapidly evolving with the integration of technology, we are invested in upskilling our retailers by building their capacity and capability. This partnership will play a key role in equipping the beneficiaries with the necessary knowledge to expand their businesses and enhance consumer experiences, ultimately strengthening India's economy.”

Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia vice-president of human resources Irene Tan added: “We strive to create a conducive and enabling environment for retailers, allowing them to expand their businesses and enhance consumer experiences.”

Coca-Cola India has a network of four million retail outlets across the country along with its owned bottling operations and partners.

In the US, the company recently unveiled its proprietary insights platform, Coca-Cola Lens, for retailers to access.