Convenience stores are being encouraged to play to their strengths and rally behind this National Customer Service Week.

The week, which runs until October 9, is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the vital role that customer service plays in successful business practice, the Institute of Customer Service (ICS) said.

“This week provides organisations with an ideal platform to demonstrate to their customers that they are totally focused on the service they offer them,” ICS chief executive Jo Causon said.

The National Skills Academy for Retail is using the week to launch its new customer service training scheme, WorldHost Retail.

Launching on October 18, it is the only nationwide customer service programme tailored specifically to the UK’s retail sector, and provides retail staff of all levels with the skills and knowledge to deliver outstanding customer service to help increase sales and customer loyalty.