In March we will launch the Better Food Traders Marketing Support Scheme. We know that many local food retailers are struggling with falling customer numbers due to the squeeze on household spending, so we’ll be helping member organisations create some quick, effective campaigns that will boost sales.
We’ll be providing support in the form of cash plus mentoring: pots of money from £200-£1,800 plus expert marketing advice such as technical help, training or graphic design work.
We are interested in supporting discreet marketing campaigns like a leaflet drop, special offer, social ad campaign, crowdfunder or competition, where it will run for a fixed length of time and success can be measured.
BFT members will need to fill in a short application form and explain in a few words:
- how the campaign will be created and measured
- what support you need to make it a reality
- how it will benefit your organisation.
Hint to applicants: We’d love to see a clear strategy and an idea of what outcomes your campaign will generate, but if you want to try something new, just say so and we’ll find a great mentor to support you. We’re also looking for strong messaging and a good plan for execution, so if you need some guidance before you apply do get in touch.
Do you want to do a leaflet drop in your local area? – we can offer design support, ideas for tracking results, and some funds to get them printed.
Do you want to boost sales of a specific product with digital advertising and a promo code? – we can offer advice on how to set up your ad campaign and code, and give you some funds towards the ad spend.
Do you want to create a set of banners to make use of your collection points as advertising spaces? – we can help with design support and printing costs.
Are you running a crowdfunding campaign? – we can offer some troubleshooting advice as well as financial support.
Do you want to run a promotional competition to reach new customers? – we can advise on setting up an online competition, brainstorm ideas for prizes and partnerships, and give you some funds towards the ad spend.
Do you want to run a community survey to engage with local people and raise awareness of your venture? – we can put you in touch with a survey specialist, and give you some funding to cover the costs.
Apply via our online application form by 9am on Monday 24th April – see your upcoming March Newsletter for the link to the form and further details.
Applications will be judged by the Better Food Traders staff team and Improper Agency – the decision of the judging panel is final. Campaigns must be executed, and results and expenditure reported back to us, by the end of August 2023. This scheme is made possible by our brilliant funder, the Esmée Fairburn Foundation.