UNS — The government’s implementation of restrictions on community activities (PPKM) affected the economic sectors, including the marketing industry. The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that often rely on offline marketing through direct distribution to markets and urban areas are greatly affected by PPKM policy limiting working hours and pushing retail shops to close. Considering this condition KKN Thematic Group 231 in Pucangan Village, Kartasura, held an education and socialization program for MSMEs in the village.
Karmila, representing her Group members: Johan Adilest, Karmila Dewi Santika, Linda Fitri Nurlina, Lutfiana Fatjriah, Melinawati Dwi Cahya Ningrum, Meylina Ma’adatin Ni’mah, Miftakhul Na’im Kurniawan, Nabila Yusvi Putri Anggraeni, and Yuan Angger Prasetya, stated that this program aimed to educate MSMEs and improve Pucangan people’s welfare. Under the supervision from Dr. Ir. Yudi Rinanto, M.P., the Group held the program periodically from 3 August 2021 to 28 August 2021 offline, under a strict health protocol.
“The MSMEs that we involved are the producers of crips mushroom and traditional jamu production,” Karmila explained.
She added that the Group discussed meeting schedules with MSMEs before visiting the business and discuss their business challenges amid the pandemic. From the discussion, the Group mapped several issues from the businesses, including branding and marketing challenges.
“From the coordination, the crips mushroom MSME asked us to design a new packaging sticker and make an MMT in front of their production house. Then to tailor, we taught how to make three-ply masks to increase income. In traditional jamu production, we provided a fresh and up-to-date packaging design to capture millennials’ interest,” Karmila explained.
The program received a positive response from the MSMEs, who stated that their daily production increased due to increased demand and the interest to be resellers of their products. The program also introduced marketing digitalization to the MSMEs, who thank the Group for teaching them how to take product pictures and innovation and creation that could attract more consumers. Humas UNS
Reporter: Zalfaa Azalia P.
Editor: Dwi Hastuti