438 creates additional business division to support SMEs through the pandemic

Knutsford-based integrated marketing agency, 438 has launched a new division, specifically focused on offering SMEs a range of tailor-made brand support packages to help them power out of lockdown.

The introduction of its ‘WORKS’ brand comes on the back of new research that 80 per cent of SMEs have seen their revenues decline in the past 12 months, and many are struggling to prioritise their resources in areas such as optimising websites, delivering high quality virtual presentations and events; and social media outreach.

A similar survey by Nucleus Commercial Finance also suggests that the businesses with savings have spent around £72,000 on average to stay afloat already, with this increasing to £149,101 in medium size businesses.

Andy Whitmore, 438 director, said: “The pandemic has undoubtedly had a meteoric impact on the economy, with many SMEs across all sectors either struggling to stay afloat after 12 months of restrictions that have forced them to turn models on their head or straining to cope with demand.

“Covid has significantly propelled forwards our reliance on digital channels and the businesses that have thrived under these circumstances are those that have been agile and that are underpinned by a solid digital strategy and robust web presence.

“Many SMEs are finding themselves needing to quickly bolster their digital resources to cater for increased demand, offer reliable ecommerce and increase brand awareness through online channels, however many need expert support to take their business to the next level.

“WORKS is designed to offer these businesses fast, affordable and most importantly, effective, packaged solutions aimed at driving rapid growth; it’s also for ambitious entrepreneurs and start-ups through to small businesses who need an alternative payment scheme versus paying the large up-front costs associated with outsourcing these products.

“The initial services will include website design and build, managed social media packages, inbound marketing and virtual events – and we will add more in coming months.”

Whitmore added: “We really do understand the magnitude of the challenges that many businesses are facing which is why we have developed this dedicated support with payment options that are designed to support SME cash flow. The tailored packages offer business owners access to a team of agency experts dedicated to propelling their growth.

“As a brand communications agency, we provide an end-to-end service delivering events and experiences of all kinds; internal and external, virtual and physical. We have packaged how we approach all projects in a way that makes our services accessible to businesses with smaller budgets, offering innovative, objective strategic advice, design and integrated marketing solutions, agile service delivery from a team of great-to-work-with, accountable, experienced marketing professionals.”

For more information about WORKS by 438 please visit www.438marketing.com/works-by-438/.