Sixty business owners and managers from 40 local businesses recently attended two recent InvestSefton masterclasses at Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa.

Digital and social media presence

Focusing on strengthening their digital presence and social media presence, the events were led by Lizzie Barnett of Studio Nine, who provided expert insight and practical advice.

Lizzie also advised attendees on choosing the right social media platform, what to post and when to post it. And she talked about the best ways for companies to link their social media content to the large-scale events happening in Southport and across Sefton.

Free masterclasses

These free masterclasses are part of a programme organised by InvestSefton and partners to help local businesses gain the most from this year’s spectacular season of events in Southport.

Over 340 local businesses have already taken part in InvestSefton’s free workshop programme. Other areas covered have included hospitality, customer experience and marketing.

Increased footfall

Sue Barker, Director of Café 1821, said the support enabled the business to capitalise on increased visitor numbers associated with major events in the town.

The Lightport Event attracted more than 3,000 visitors to Christ Church and Café 1821, with many making use of the facilities and amenities on offer.

Although the Cristal Palace event was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, enhanced visibility and marketing efforts still helped boost trade, with a number of visitors from the Lightport Event returning to the café on subsequent occasions.

InvestSefton events go from strength to strength. You can find details of future free workshop events here Events | Invest Sefton

Practical business support

Councillor Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council Cabinet Member Regeneration, Economy & Skills, said: “This experience is a great example of how practical business support can make a real difference and how these free training sessions can a real world impact on the local area”

“Even with last minute event disruption, we were able to see large numbers of visitors making use of the local amenities;  That’s exactly the type of outcome we want to see more of going forward with our events programme and seeing this translate into increased business in Southport”

InvestSefton

InvestSefton is Sefton Council’s enterprise, with business support and inward investment service.  It offers free information and advice and access to a wide range of services. It is there to help any business, of any size, in any sector.

People wanting to find out more about how the InvestSefton can help support their business, can visit www.investsefton.com  or contact the team on 0151 934 3452 or email investsefton@sefton.gov.uk