One of the conditions for the continued survival of small retailers in the market is their association and connection, and it is essential to work on strengthening the competitiveness of small retail and to invest in knowledge and development, it was emphasized today at the 7th meeting of retailers organized by the Trade Guild of the Croatian Chamber of Trades and Crafts (HOK).
According to the data presented, in the last 16 months, the number of retail craftsmen has decreased by 2,826, resulting in the loss of 5,554 jobs. In the craft retail sector today, after a significant decline over the past year, there are about 16,000 craftsmen. Connections are a necessity, emphasized the president of the Trade Guild of HOK, Boris Vukelić, noting that association (through Plusmarket, associations, new types of horizontal associations) is what must drive progress.
Vukelić believes that for the survival of small retail, it is necessary to adapt VAT to needs, invest in facilities and knowledge, prevent unfair competition through the application of regulations, reprogram obligations for all who need it, continue the fight against the shadow economy, and thoroughly consider all non-tax levies, etc. He stated that it is essential to invest in facilities and knowledge. The meeting highlighted the necessity of improving the business operations of retailers through marketing activities, connections, and through the modernization of business and facilities. The importance of cooperation between domestic production and retail was also emphasized, the necessity of increasing the competitiveness of small retailers, their connection with domestic producers, investment in new technologies, and the introduction of new sales methods. (H)
