Retailers across Suffolk ready to stand out?
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This blog article is written by Suffolk team member, Nick Pandolfi.
I’ve been working with independent shop owners, hospitality venues, and local traders through the New Anglia Growth Hub, helping them rediscover simple ways to reach more customers — online and on the high street.
This evening (October 30), I’m hosting our latest “Back to Basics” session — all about boosting your business visibility with easy digital tips, creative storytelling, and smart but simple tools.
Before I began working with Suffolk SMEs, I trained in Product and Retail Brand Management with the Harrods Group and it’s that same customer-first approach I now bring to Suffolk’s retail community.
I’ve turned some of the key takeaways from our workshops into a short blog and Retailer’s Checklist with practical ideas to help you:
The Suffolk Retail Business Marketing Checklist
1. Tell Your Story
Share why you started your business, people connect with people.
Show what makes you different: your products, your style, your passion.
Tip: Post “The Story Behind Our Shop” on Facebook or Instagram once a season.
2. Keep Your Google Business Profile Fresh
Add new photos regularly, even just of your shop window or latest product.
Update your hours, add posts, and reply to reviews.
Tip: Treat Google like another social channel; post weekly updates or offers.
3. Make Social Media Work for You
Focus on one or two platforms where your audience actually is.
Use local hashtags such as #ShopSuffolk #LoveNewmarket #OurBuryStEdmunds.
Follow and tag local partners, media, and BID groups.
Idea: Try a “Four Ps” content mix – Product, People, Place, Promotion.
4. Use Your Phone as Your Marketing Toolkit
Capture quick videos or photos in natural light.
Feature behind-the-scenes moments, your products in action, or staff stories.
Tip: Imperfect is fine, authenticity wins every time.
5. Collaborate Locally
Work with other shops or cafés for joint promotions or event days.
Mention Love Newmarket, Our Bury St Edmunds, or local BID partners in posts.
Idea: Create a “Shop + Lunch + Walk” itinerary for visitors.
6. Engage the Local Media
Send simple press releases to Bury Free Press, East Anglian Daily Times, or BBC Radio Suffolk.
Announce new openings, events, or charity collaborations.
Tip: Keep releases short, human, and include good photos.
7. Use AI Tools — Simply
Use ChatGPT to draft social captions or blog titles.
Try Canva for graphics and CapCut for quick video edits.
Tip: Let AI speed you up, but always add your human touch.
8. Inspire Visitors to Explore
Encourage customers to enjoy a full Suffolk experience: “Pop in for a gift, grab lunch nearby, and take a stroll through Abbey Gardens.”
Link with Visit Suffolk or town tourism pages.
Idea: Share posts celebrating your hometown and fellow traders.
9. Keep Communicating
Regular updates, even short ones — keep your brand front of mind.
Share blog posts or quick “What’s new this week” updates.
Tip: Think of it as inviting people back into your story.
10. Connect with Support
The Growth Hub team are here to help Suffolk businesses with free 1:1 support, workshops, and expert guidance.
📩 suffolkenquiries@newangliagrowthhub.co.uk
🌐 newangliagrowthhub.co.uk
A Final Thought from Nick
nick pandolfi“Marketing isn’t about shouting louder — it’s about showing why you’re worth visiting.
Tell your story, celebrate your community, and remind people why shopping locally in Suffolk feels good.”