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Marketing essentials

How to create a marketing plan for your small business - build a brand, target customers and set prices that will maximise sales.

Online marketing

The internet has transformed business marketing. No matter what you do, the internet is likely to be at the heart of your marketing strategy.

Social media

Social media is firmly established as a marketing tool. Having a presence opens up new lines of communication with existing and potential customers.

Advertising

Good advertising puts the right marketing message in front of the right people at the right time, raising awareness of your business.

Customer care

Customer care is at the heart of all successful companies. It can help you develop customer loyalty and improve relationships with your customers.

Sales

Sales bring in the money that enables your business to survive and grow. Your sales strategy will be driven by your sales objectives.

Market research

Market research exists to guide your business decisions by giving you insight into your market, competitors, products, marketing and your customers.

PR and promotion

Exhibitions and events are valuable for businesses because they allow face-to-face communication and offer opportunities for networking.

Sector trends

What particular trends are affecting specific types of business (such as a hotel, or a printer, or a taxi firm)? We explain some of the key trends for 200 types of business.

Resource topics

15 results shown

Bridal shop sector trends

This trend summary explains that the bridal wear sector has had to adapt to a number of developments over the last decade or so.

Book shop sector trends

This trend summary explains that the last two decades or so have been a turbulent time for the book trade.

Bicycle shop sector trends

This trend summary explains that cycle ownership and use in the UK are on the increase.

Bakery sector trends

This trend summary explains what is happening in the bakery sector.

Art shop sector trends

This trend summary explains that the amount of money that artists and hobbyists spend on artists' materials is affected by the state of the economy.

Art gallery sector trends

This trend summary explains that art has become more important as interest has grown in interior design and decor - and in art for art's sake.

Architectural salvage sector trends

This trend summary explains that the last decade or so has seen interest in architectural salvage increase hugely.

Antique dealer sector trends

This trend summary explains how demand for antiques depends to some extent on the health of the economy,

Rural crafts sector trends

This trend summary explains that demand for hand-made and unique craft products has increased over the last couple of decades or so and is connected to the economy.

Printer sector trends

This trend summary explains that the demand for printing services has reflected the state of the economy as a whole.

Pottery sector trends

This trend summary explains how the pottery sector is connected to the economy.

Furniture maker sector trends

This trend summary explains that the amount of money that people spend on furniture and furnishings is affected by the state of the economy and the housing market.

Food manufacturer sector trends

This trends summary explains how the changes in the lifestyles and eating habits of consumers have affected the food manufacturing sector.

Factory based sector trends

This trend summary explains the developments that in general terms the manufacturing sector has seen in recent years.

Clothing manufacturer sector trends

This trend summary explains that recent years have seen a significant contraction in the UK clothing and knitwear manufacturing industry.