A 24-YEAR-OLD Great Sankey resident is benefitting from a business development programme aimed at the independent convenience retail sector.

The Independent Achievers Academy (IAA) scheme is a network which offers the 'tools and support' required to develop a store into a profitable business.

Former Liverpool John Moores University student Jas Bhattle made the cut to be selected on IAA's scheme last year.

The academy, owned and managed by Newtrade, identifies 100 top retailers across the UK and Ireland each year.

Mr Bhattle, who is based at Simply Local in Newton-le-Willows, wanted to begin working in the industry following university because of the 'real opportunity' provided.

With the support from the academy, he set up his store 18 months ago and has since experience growth quarter on quarter.

Mr Bhattle has praised IAA for the opportunity provided and believes the support could be invaluable to many businesses - a view echoed by Newtrade.

Managing director Nick Shanagher said: "Sales from independent news and convenience retailers across the UK and Ireland have grown significantly in recent years as people prefer to shop locally with people they know.

"The IAA provides shop owners with constructive feedback from experts in areas such as organisation and layout, community engagement, people and innovation.

"Most importantly though it ensures the UK and Ireland's best stores get recognition for their work."

Last year the independent convenience sector saw a growth of more than five per cent on the year before and has been tipped to grow to £49 billion by 2020.

Research shows that the independent retail sector represents a third of the UK grocery market, with more than 50,000 independent convenience stores in the UK and Ireland.

IAA is currently urging retailers across Merseyside to apply for the development programme before the June 26 deadline.

For further information www.betterRetailing.com/IAA.