Firms put the word out across the globe
SIXTEEN Rochdale businesses have signed up to a global initiative that helps organisations by word of mouth and connect with one another.
Companies already committed to the referral marketing programme run by BNI include Reside Estate Agency, Rochdale AFC, Office Supplies Now and Pennine Accounting Limited.
BNI is a global scheme that helps businesses by recommendation and allows traders to develop long-term and meaningful relationships with professionals in their area so that they may suggest one another to other people.
John Fitton, of Norden, opened his business Office Supplies Now in 2006 and has been with BNI for eight years under the Middleton group which he says has brought in up to £60,000 of business every year.
The passionate entrepreneur said: “This new group for Rochdale is great as we are always looking to grow and it’ll help us to create job opportunities.
“BNI really helps you to develop a deeper relationship with other businesses and all of the members of the group are Rochdale based businesses so it can really enhance the community here.”
Any type of trade can get involved; accountants, solicitors, personal trainers and more.
The group meet every Thursday 7am until 8.45am at Rochdale AFC where they introduce themselves and discuss the kind of opportunities they are looking for with the objective of generating three million pounds a year between the members.
Participants also use the BNI app to pass and receive referrals directly through their phones.
BNI executive director, Mike Holman said: “According to The New York Times, 65 per cent of all new business will come via recommendation but the issue is people don’t have a system for it including in Rochdale.
“Over the last two years people have spent time in isolation and there is a real hunger and energy amongst business people to help support the local community and get out there.
“Rochdale is a great location as it is just off the M62 and there is a real opportunity here.
“Using Rochdale AFC as a home to us was very important because it is a well established venue Rochdale people know and there is a lot of community around the football club and the work they do.”
For more information or to join the group contact John Fitton by email John@ Officesuppliesnow.co.uk