Innovative new course to tackle multi-channel retailing is world's first

The Faraday Centre for Retail Excellence, based within the University's Faculty of Business and Law, has joined forces with global independent management consultancy Bluefin Solutions to deliver the world's first Omni-channel Retailing programme designed for UK and international businesses on the cusp of implementing the Omni approach.

Applications are now being accepted for the Omni-channel Masters (MSc) programme, which starts in September 2014.

Head of the Centre and Professor of Retail Innovation, Cathy Barnes, commented: "Omni-channel is the evolution of multi-channel retailing which concentrates on providing a seamless experience through all available shopping channels such as smart phones, computers, bricks and mortar, television, radio, direct mail, mail order and so on. A business challenge facing retail executives is understanding how to change their organisations so they are more responsive to ever-shifting consumer behaviour.

"This course is designed to put retailers at the forefront of the ever-changing global retail environment and will focus on a study of Omni-channel retailing, utilising workplace learning and development and offering a blended programme of distance and on campus learning."

Dan Hawker, Head of Bluefin Solutions' Consumer Business Practice, added: "Omni-channel is the new black! Successful retailers are those that have created a clear Omni-channel vision and are well on the way to achieving it in quick and easily manageable steps. They are breaking down silos to enable shoppers to have a seamless experience across all channels and devices."

Students on the Omni-channel programme may choose to obtain a masters, diploma or certificate. The course has been designed to allow for the transfer and practical implementation of knowledge between the student and his/her employer as quickly as possible.

Unlike traditional courses that offer one-to-one mentoring between student and teacher, the Omni-channel Masters programme offers personal education by community so all students have access to a network of academic and industry experts throughout the duration of the course.