Listers support local business
Posted on 10/07/2012
It's a sad indictment of the current state of affairs and the global economy that many businesses operate in a blinkered fashion when it comes to supporting their local community. So focused are we on maintaining profits, increasing business and general survival, many of us have ignored the opportunities on our very doorstep.
Lister Trade Frames based in Stoke, have always been keen supporters of local businesses and try where possible to use locally based companies for all kinds of items. They also try to help promote companies and their services, as a thriving local economy benefits us all. Such was the case when a local tyre company, "For Tyres" were introduced to Listers at the recent Business Accelerator Scheme programme supported by The Sentinel, the local Staffordshire newspaper. Listers MD, Mark Warren was on the panel that was judging new and exciting Stoke on Trent businesses that were competing for an incredible prize of 3 months of free advertising in the Sentinel and mentoring from a panel of experts. The real coup was the national winner would also receive expert guidance from Dragons Den's Deborah Meaden.
The Business Accelerator Scheme highlighted companies were ready to stand up and buck the trend of a recession affected economy. This spirit was clearly evident in the "For Tyres" ethos.
Listers were really keen to be a part of this support programme.
"Everybody should look at supporting local businesses as it can only help improve the local economy," remarked Mark Warren, Listers MD. "For Tyres impressed me and it was their enthusiasm and determination to succeed that meant they were chosen of the three local finalists. They reminded me of Listers 36 years ago and I was sure we could help them out somehow."
The first step was to make Listers large customer base aware of the services that For Tyres could offer them.
"Our customers depend on their vehicles for a living and clock up serious miles," commented Daniel Shaw Marketing Manager for Listers. "It was a no brainer that we devised a discount card for Listers customers to use at For Tyres."
Within 2 weeks, For Tyres had welcomed 12 new customers who were using the Listers card, including one of the Listers directors! And it didn't stop there. Every piece of mail that left the Listers building housed a discount card and an eshot to over 4500 companies also contained details of the partnership.
"We were delighted with the help we received from Listers," remarked Kevin Ecclestone, MD of For Tyres, "We've even made use of their design and print capabilities and had some more personalised discount cards printed for us to distribute. This kind of help is invaluable to a new business and we are extremely grateful to Listers for their help".
Local businesses like Listers and the Sentinel look beyond their own four walls to see what's going on in the community. This kind of support can help new companies buck the trend of a declining economy.
Take a look around and see what's on your doorstep. Sometimes a helping hand is all anybody ever needs.
