Owners of corner stores, or pulperías, and other retailers now have access to special financing to help them switch to modern technology, thanks to a joint program of Banco Popular's Community Development branch, the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce and the Chamber of Retailers, according to a statement released by Casa Presidencial yesterday.

The agreement will give this sector access to credits to purchase software and hardware needed to transfer their paper records to an electronic system.

“There are a significant number of retailers in the country who need financial assistance to improve their commercial activities to be able to provide Costa Rica society with better quality products at better prices,” said Vice-Minister of the Economy Jorge Woodbridge. “That's why it's imperative that they get equipment that allows them to use technology in their businesses and become more competitive.”

The agreement is expected to benefit more than 20,000 small retailers around the country by providing them with more efficient ways to charge customers, keep records and track inventory, the statement said.