Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) set an ambitious goal this year to empower 500 trainees through its Growing Retailers Innovatively Together (G.R.I.T.) programme.
Speaking at the launch of the third G.R.I.T. Retailer Development Programme, KBL Managing Director Carlos Bernitt highlighted that the programme is more than just a training initiative.
“It embodies our unwavering commitment to the growth and sustainability of local businesses, especially those that form the backbone of our communities,” he said.
The business literacy training covered crucial areas for running a successful retail operation, including financial literacy basics, the 4Ps of marketing, responsible service with a focus on smart drinking, and a comprehensive overview of the legal and regulatory requirements for operating a liquor business in Botswana.
“At KBL, we believe in the power of proactive community engagement,” Bernitt noted.
“We do more than just operate within communities; we invest in their success.”
He further explained that G.R.I.T. is centered on fostering a culture of entrepreneurial innovation and community investment—empowering individuals to improve not only their own livelihoods but also uplift those around them.
In previous years, the G.R.I.T. programme successfully partnered with 540 retailers from across Botswana, including Gaborone, Francistown, Kanye, Lobatse, Mahalapye, Molepolole, and Selebi-Phikwe. This year, KBL aimed to expand its impact, setting a target to train 500 individuals.
Ronnie Phuthego, Director of Economic Empowerment at the Ministry of Entrepreneurship, emphasised that the G.R.I.T. programme reflects a commitment to both enhancing local retailers’ capabilities and embracing the transformative power of technology in the business landscape.
“In a world that is rapidly evolving, the need for smart, technology-driven approaches has never been more critical,” Phuthego said.
“By training bars, bottle stores, and depot owners to leverage such technology, KBL is not just investing in individual businesses; they are contributing to the larger economic ecosystem of our nation.”
Phuthego added that the ministry is dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure the success of initiatives like G.R.I.T.
“The G.R.I.T. programme aligns seamlessly with our National Development Priorities,” he noted.
“One of our primary goals is to enhance the skills and capacity of our workforce, ensuring that our entrepreneurs are equipped to navigate the complexities of a modern economy.” By incorporating technology into their operations, Phuthego explained, local retailers will not only increase efficiency but also improve customer engagement and satisfaction, ultimately boosting sales and profitability—key to sustaining their businesses
