THE Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) on Sunday hosted a vendor’s retreat at the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) in recognition of the key role they play in getting the newspaper to readers.

The short programme saw in attendance several vendors from Georgetown and neighbouring communities, as well as management and staff of GNNL.
General Manager (ag), Donna Todd told the attendees that the activity was part of a rebranding process of the State’s newspaper.

Part of this process, she said, involves garnering vendors’ input.
“We have to have your views, because you are our face when you go to the clients. So you would be able to tell us what are some of the issues that the readers would like to see in our newspapers, so that we can try our best to have the articles or the topics discussed by our reporters,” Todd said.

GNNL Board Chair Geeta Chandan-Edmond told the vendors that they are the heart of the company as she underscored the importance of hearing from them.

“You know like how the heart is considered one of the main organs of the body,” she said, “we consider you, the vendors, the heart of our company; we cannot function without you. It is imperative that we meet; that we gather to listen to your views; your concerns; your suggestions and your recommendations. This company belongs to all of us,” Chandan-Edmond said.

She thanked the vendors profusely for their dedicated efforts and huge contribution over the years.

She said that had it not been for their unshakeable support, the Guyana Chronicle would have suffered, since it falls under ‘State media’, and persons would have treated it with much skepticism.

Noting that State media is often thwarted for partisan interest, the Chairman said, “But I can say, and I say this convincingly, that that is a thing of the past. As of today, or rather, since 2015, the Guyana Chronicle of today is not only a vehicle for quality journalism, but for vigorous, unrestricted debate, on issues affecting the Guyanese society.

“Over the years, our newspaper has demonstrated exemplary journalism. We have swept the PAHO health journalism awards, as well as the Guyana Press Association Awards.”
After the chair’s presentation, the vendors were given the opportunity to give their input. At which point a discussion ensued on how the production and marketing aspect of the newspaper could improve in an increasingly competitive market.

Following the discussions, the vendors expressed gratitude to GNNL management for the opportunity to share their input on the development and improvement of the newspaper.