Leyland SDM launches in-house training academy

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  Posted by: electime      30th May 2022

London’s decorating and DIY specialist Leyland SDM has launched an in-house training academy to ensure its employees are best prepared to offer fast and accurate advice to the city’s hardworking tradespeople.

Leyland SDM has launched the fully equipped training facility within one of its central London stores.

New recruits will spend five days at the academy before taking to the shopfloor, where they will hone their customer service skills and learn about the products on offer.

The employees will then return to the academy after three to six months to take their knowledge to the next level.

Tony Sak, training academy lead, said the programme was designed to help all customers find the products they need, especially tradespeople who are often rushing between jobs.

Tony said: “We’re excited to be embarking on this new modern approach to training.

“We know tradespeople are busy people. They want to visit one of our 32 stores, pick up what they need and get back on with their job as quickly as possible. As the old adage goes, time is money.

“This training schedule will ensure our people have a good understanding of the products tradespeople need and where to find them in store.

“They will also be equipped with knowledge which will enable them to offer insightful product advice.

“In the past we have used external partners for training. However, we found that, while there were many providers available for some industries, there was nothing specific for the DIY retailer.

“The only sensible solution was to create our own.”

A replica store has been created for Leyland SDM’s new employees to train in.

Suppliers including Dulux and Farrow & Ball have already visited the academy to educate Leyland SDM employees on their products.

Tony added: “The specialist knowledge of our employees has always been an important part of our offering. Our customers really value that expert advice.

“This move will ensure we’re giving our people all the information they need to start and progress their careers with us.”

Leyland SDM has become one of the most recognisable and trusted decorating and DIY retail brands in central London with stores in some of the capital’s most prominent locations.

Its 32 stores stock a comprehensive range of thousands of products across all departments, including paint and decorating essentials, building materials, electrical fittings, tools, plumbing equipment, ironmongery and much more, all under one roof.

Some of the biggest and best-known DIY brands are available at Leyland SDM, including Farrow & Ball, Tesa, Bahco, Bosch, Purdy, Dulux Trade, Leyland Trade, Stanley, Ronseal and DEWALT.

Visit www.leylandsdm.co.uk for more information.