READING’S retail centre is looking forward to a boost, thanks to a virtual visit from a business guru.
Graham Soult will be holding two online retail and marketing workshops this month, and also making one in person appearance, all aimed at helping businesses enjoy some top tips for success.
The first session takes place on Tuesday, March 15, and will discuss kerb appeal: how businesses can grab the attention of customers as they window shop, to then get them inside.
A week later, on Tuesday, March 22, he will look at Google’s tools, including Maps, and how they can help businesses.
The third and final session will see him visit the town, with a session designed to help people tackle marketing, including creating a good website, how to use images and video, and showcase their products on social media.
All sessions start at 5pm, and are open to businesses in retail and hospitality, as well as other interested businesses.
Mr Soult has been described as a North East Mary Portas, and said to be among the most influential retail people on Twitter.
He said: “Reading is a vibrant town with many fantastic independent businesses, and I’m looking forward to paying a return visit and sharing my tips and insights.
“Whether a business is already confident in its brand and marketing, or needs some help getting started, my workshops are designed to be full of practical tips that retail and hospitality businesses can start acting upon straight away.
“As high streets evolve, and businesses work ever-smarter to win over customers, it’s never been more important to make a great first impression with the frontage of your premises, your presence on Google, or the digital footprint of your website and social media.”
And his sessions – and knowledge – has been welcomed by Reading Borough Council.
Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said: “We are honoured that Graham has been able to come along virtually and in person to share some positive and practical advice that local businesses can learn from and use, whether or not they are also benefitting from physical improvements to their premises.”
And Alexa Volker, Head of Operations at Reading Central and Abbey Quarter BIDs, which is helping to promote the sessions, added: “I’ve followed Graham on social media for some time, and it’s a pleasure to be able to bring one of the country’s foremost high-street champions to Reading.
“From hearing Graham speak before, I know his workshops are enjoyable, engaging and useful, and I would encourage all BID businesses to take advantage of these free sessions.”
The funding comes from Reading Borough Council’s High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) – a heritage-led regeneration partnership that brings together Historic England and the Council.
To sign up for any of the workshops, email HSHAZ@reading.gov.uk
