A fresh approach to improving the image and economy of Stoke-on-Trent is being pioneered by a group of business professionals. 

Attempts to regenerate Stoke-on-Trent through Government and European programmes have met with limited success. 

Now businesswoman Caroline Law says it’s time to create a two pronged attack and support the City’s ongoing plans with a bottom up approach to regeneration where businesses see results in a shorter time frame 

Marketing consultant Caroline has brought together a diverse group of business people who are determined to show their county in a positive light. 

The initiative will be kick started with an event at the Moat House, Festival Park, where a number of lively, short, interactive sessions will take place offering marketing ideas that any business can action. The event is designed to support established and start-up companies. 

Caroline grew up in Stoke-on-Trent before establishing a successful marketing consultancy while living in Lancashire. 

“Since returning to Staffordshire 18 months ago, I have seen a lot of positivity and potential among small and medium sized businesses,” said Caroline. 

“We need to capture the spark shown by forward thinking local business people and build that into a campaign to shout about how Stoke-on-Trent is open for business. Standing out in a crowded marketplace is difficult. It’s not enough just be in business you have to be memorable and remarkable and be willing to collaborate through joint ventures in order to share ideas and grow,” she explained. 

“This is not an easy task for Government bodies or councils, it has to come from the grass roots up and the businesses community need to see results in a shorter time frame.” 

Group members include John Capper, Denis Sidebottom, Mandy Robinson, James Capper, Damian Brittleton and Phil Oakley. 

They are giving their time for free to organise a not for profit event on 27 May. 

The event will be open to both established and new businesses and will feature presentations and workshops from people who are succeeding in a wide range of local businesses including marketing strategy and planning, brand, web design, customer management, referral marketing and how to build relationships using social media and video technology. 

The group plan to offer on-going support through an online group and further face to face events to anyone who is looking to grow their business and create jobs and wealth in the area. 

Staffs Marketing Academy member, Denis Sidebottom said: “It’s difficult for most businesses to acquire the level of skill and creativity needed at key times in their business. We wanted to share our expertise and experience and give regional businesses access to marketing professionals where they’ll pick up innovative low cost ideas that they can action immediately and see real results.” 

Attendees at the Moat House event will pay a £20 fee to help cover the costs of room hire and refreshments.  Any profit from the day will be donated to local charities. 

ENDS    

About Staffordshire Marketing Academy: The Group was founded by Caroline Law and Denis Sidebottom. The aim of the Group is to support, inspire and share ideas with regional business people and those looking to start a business in Staffordshire and to foster a culture of innovation and creativity to create wealth and prosperity. 

For further information contact Caroline Law on 07966 540 838

Website: www.carolinelaw.co.uk       Email: [email protected]