and operation of, workers' and trades union enterprises. 170. In implementing policies such as credit for the immediate purpose of supporting the workers' social sector. Examples are the finance to a total of 5,000 million pesos made available through the Workers' Bank for various projects in 1985 or the lines of credit at preferential rates opened for the benefit of "micro-enterprises". 171. Those activities are of particular importance that promote the marketing and supply of basic products, or that are connected with training in, and the administration of, workers' undertakings or those that are concerned with technical assistance. Supply and marketing of basic products 172. The strengthening or establishment of trade union shops. In 1984 support was given to the operation of 153 shops; in 1985 the figure was 253 and about 290,000 families benefited. At the present time some 400 trade union shops are in operation, benefiting about 350,000 families by supplying handily and cheaply basic articles of consumption. 173. Advisory services and technical training for the trade union shops were provided through the National Popular Necessities Company (CONASUPO). 174. The CONASUPO distributing company has given direct loans to the trade union shops to the extent of 75% of the capital required for setting them up, thus increasing the capacity of the trade union organizations to establish their own distribution networks. 175. In 1985 the Small Shopkeeping Promotion Company, through its 328 branches in Mexico, sold basic products at wholesale prices to supply about 145,000 customers, among them 900 trade unions participating in the National Self-Management Programme, which benefits 15,000 consumer groups. In 1986 these activities were extended to a further 200 trade unions and 9,000 more groups for group purchasing, enabling a regular supply of general consiomer goods at competitive prices. Training
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing initiatives aimed at improving the economic situation of workers and their families, particularly through the establishment and support of trade union shops and other enterprises. It highlights the provision of financing, training, and technical assistance to these organizations, with a focus on promoting the marketing and supply of basic products. This suggests that the main goal is to enhance the economic well-being of workers and their communities.

**Category**
Employment, Industry