Sheila Otero Rivera, the newly selected president-elect of the United Retailers Center (CUD) in Puerto Rico, will lead the organization's business outreach program, 'CUD de tu pueblo'. The 135-year-old organization has over 6,000 members and aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the island. Otero Rivera plans to improve the outreach initiative by visiting partners, offering training, and coordinating with deputy mayors and economic development offices to provide personalized help.
She identified common challenges for small businesses, including high electricity and water costs, permit bureaucracy, and tax burdens. Otero Rivera also highlighted the need for trained personnel in municipal economic development and competition from large chains and e-commerce. To better serve members outside the metropolitan area, she suggested establishing regional offices, citing the success of a previous office in Mayagüez.
The organization will focus on providing constant support to help merchants overcome their difficulties.