The Newport News Department of Development, in conjunction with the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center, is hosting an interactive retail and restaurant seminar next week. The seminar is being conducted by Marc Willson, a national retail and restaurant consultant for the Virginia Small Business Development Center Network and takes place at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 3rd at 11820 Fountain Way, Suite 301, in City Center at Oyster Point. The event is free and open to local restaurant and retail merchants.  

During the morning seminar,  Willson will discuss ways that businesses can attract and keep new customers, the importance of utilizing updated technology and getting customers in your door. The seminar will also include some tips for the holiday season and will allow participants to ask questions that are relevant to their specific businesses. 

In the afternoon a limited number of businesses will be able to set private appointments to meet with Willson for one-on-one sessions.  During this time, he can discuss with business owners marketing options, review and share ways on how to continue increasing profitability, and the importance of monitoring profit and loss statements.   

Please contact Tricia Wilson or Shakir Johnson at 757-926-8428 to determine if one-on-one appointment slots are still available or to reserve a spot in the seminar.