Free event targets marketing for smaller firms

Mar 25 2009 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

NEW and established businesses needing fresh ideas and know- how are being invited to a free event.

Cels – the organisation driving the growth of the healthcare sector – is partnering with TEDCO (Tyneside Economic Development Company) to deliver the surgery, which is targeted at non-marketers and aims to provide them with ideas and marketing techniques to help grow their business in these difficult economic times.

James Thwaites – business development manager of EEF – will be kick-starting the event by getting back to basics and presenting the key ingredients to successful marketing.

Jonathan Wells – managing director of Guroo, which launched just three years ago in Houghton-le-Spring – will be sharing his experiences of running a small business and the opportunities marketing can offer.

Gordon Hanna, networking champion at TEDCO, said: “More than ever in this economic downturn, SMEs (small and medium enterprises) need to learn new skills and have access to relevant training opportunities in order to survive and thrive.

“TEDCO is delighted to be delivering real value to businesses in South Tyneside.”

Cels marketing manager Samantha Davidson said: “This is a great opportunity for businesses to enhance their marketing opportunities and look to the future. Marketing is a vital part of any strategic business plan and delegates will take away simple but effective ideas and activities which they can implement in their own company.”

Hosted by TEDCO on behalf of South Tyneside Means Business, the event will be held on Tuesday, March 31, at The Quadrus Centre in West Boldon from 8am to 2pm.

Registration begins at 8am, with the formal presentations finishing at 1pm, followed by lunch and networking. There is no charge for the surgery but it is essential to book a place by booking online at www.celsatlife.com/marketingsurgerymarch09 or by calling Cels on (0191) 211 2602.