Goals and Objectives

Canada's Leading University for Education and Research in Retailing

The Alberta School of Business has established a designated School of Retailing that will be Canada's leading institution for retail education and research.

This school focuses on educating business students to become successful in a retail-related career and advancing retailing by building stronger relationships among businesses, students, and the academic community.
 

Why is a School of Retailing Needed?

The need for a School of Retailing is pressing. Retailing is a dominant part of the Canadian economy but continues to be somewhat neglected in terms of public policy by governments and by most business schools whose research or teaching programs are rarely directed to the day-to-day needs of retailers.

Demographics and economic data confirm that retailing continues to be complex and evolving. Leaders are confronted daily with the demands of an increasingly sophisticated, strong-minded and highly motivated clientele, in an environment where the reaction to change must happen with lightning speed. Old methods are challenged to keep pace, and new generations of retailers seek the excitement that accompanies new situations and circumstances.

The School of Retailing will focus on training future retail leaders, generating Canadian-specific retail research, and creating partnerships with retailers in the community. The demands for skilled, competitive and motivated workers are growing rapidly in all retail sectors. The creation of a School of Retailing will become a primary source of retail knowledge, attracting students and retailers alike to hone both academic and practical skills.

Why is the School of Retailing Located in Edmonton?

Retail has had a vibrant and successful history in Canada, but nowhere more so than Edmonton, Alberta. Regardless of which industry you consider, Edmonton has been the birthplace of many of Canada's most successful retailers. Companies such as The Brick, Boston Pizza, Rexall, Husky Energy, Mark's Work Wearhouse, Sport Check, Booster Juice, Company's Coming, The Running Room, Liquor Depot, Fountain Tire, West Edmonton Mall, and Spa Lady all had their starts in Edmonton and surrounding area.

Who should be interested in the School of Retailing?

Every single retailer who believes that their business is worth investing in should be interested in this new School of Retailing. Whether you invest in training university students, participate in a co-op program to resource potential employees, or upgrade your own skills by tapping into the latest advances and knowledge, the Alberta School of Retailing is worth a closer look.

Funds will be sought after from retail partners who believe in the creation of a School of Retailing. These funds will be divided into four areas to build capacity and sustainability for the School in the long term:
 

Your investment will help:

Investment Opportunities

The Alberta School of Retailing is dependent upon the foresight of local and national partners who believe that investing in education will grow and advance the retail and services industries for the future.

Those corporations and individuals who help to realize this goal can make investment pledges over a five year period, with flexible terms that are tailored to each donor. All investments will be recognized by the Alberta School of Business and the University of Alberta based upon the level of contribution.
 

Major in Retailing and Services

Minor in Retailing and Services