NERVIR's Role in the ICCO Project
The challenges faced by traditional commerce, such as competition with department stores, digitalisation and changes in consumer habits, require innovative solutions that guarantee the adaptation and sustainability of local businesses. In this context, NERVIR has been actively working to implement and disseminate innovative strategies, helping traders to modernise their establishments and strengthen their presence in the market.
Through the ICCO Project, the association has defined the following strategic objectives:
- Modernisation of traditional commerce - Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and digital tools, enabling traders to increase their efficiency and improve their online visibility;
- Access to innovation and data analysis - Promoting the use of Big Data, neuromarketing and consumer behaviour analysis, enabling more strategic and informed decisions;
- Strengthening business competitiveness - Supporting local businesses in differentiating themselves in the market, helping them to attract and retain customers more effectively;
- Empowering entrepreneurs - Providing specialised training and technical support, ensuring that traders adopt new technologies in a sustainable and efficient way;
- Promoting co-operation and regional growth - Stimulating partnerships between companies and local institutions, strengthening an innovative and collaborative business environment.
Activities Developed by NERVIR in the ICCO Project
Since the start of the ICCO Project, NERVIR has been actively involved in various initiatives to ensure its success and impact in the region. Among the main actions carried out are:
- Selection of locations and participating traders - NERVIR was responsible for identifying and inviting traders in Alijó, Peso da Régua and Santa Marta de Penaguião to join the project;
- Personalised visits and awareness-raising - Visits and meetings were held with traders to explain the advantages of the project and encourage them to participate actively;
- Accompanying the installation of equipment - The association ensured that participating establishments received and used the new technologies needed to collect data on consumer behaviour;
- Promotion of workshops and training - NERVIR organised training events aimed at retailers;
- Collaboration in capturing images for neuroscience working groups - In partnership with the project team, the association accompanied the recording of audiovisual content in commercial establishments.
Expected impact of the ICCO project in the Vila Real region
Through the actions implemented, the ICCO Project will have a significant impact on the local economy, bringing concrete benefits to traders, consumers and the region's own business dynamics. The main expected results include:
- Stimulation of the local economy - Strengthening traditional commerce will boost new business opportunities, greater economic circulation and job creation;
- Attracting consumers to local establishments - Modernising businesses and implementing new marketing strategies will help attract more customers and build loyalty;
- Preservation of cultural and urban identity - The project not only modernises businesses, but also enhances the authenticity of local commerce;
- Creation of a more collaborative business ecosystem - ICCO will stimulate partnerships between companies, associations and public organisations;
- Strengthening the Innovation and Competitiveness Network for Commerce (ICCO Network) - One of the project's most important legacies will be the creation of a space for cooperation and the exchange of good practices, where traders will have access to specialised knowledge.
NERVIR is taking on a strategic role in implementing the ICCO Project, promoting the development and modernisation of traditional commerce in the Vila Real region.
Through concrete training, innovation and co-operation actions, the association ensures that local traders can adapt to new market demands and become more competitive and sustainable.
With the continuation of the project, NERVIR reinforces its commitment to the growth of the regional economy, ensuring that Vila Real's traditional commerce is prepared for the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly digital and innovative world.