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People 1st to acquire Skillsmart Retail assets

The People 1st sector skills council for hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism has announced plans to acquire its SSC counterpart Skillsmart Retail’s assets.

Subject to contract, People 1st will acquire the National Skills Academy for Retail and the SSC’s Apprenticeship Certification units.

Meanwhile, in response to the funding changes for SSCs, Skillsmart Retail’s board is considering winding up its operations altogether.

People 1st said it plans to operate “business as usual” for the National Skills Academy for Retail, which provides skills solutions to retailers across the UK.

“Under the new arrangements, the National Skills Academy for Retail will continue to provide skills solutions to the retail sector across the UK and will maintain its strong links with employers particularly through the NSA for Retail Advisory Board whose members will continue to advise on the overall strategy and direction of the NSA for Retail business,” stated People 1st in a press release.

Martin Beaumont will be stepping down as chair of Skillsmart Retail at the end of September, although he will remain a director of the SSC’s board. CEO Anne Seaman has been appointed as executive chair to oversee the transition.

Natalie Thornhill


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