British drivers are all too familiar with roadworks and subsequent traffic jams. In 2016, there were over 1.35 million traffic jams across the UK, costing the economy approximately £9 billion. Indeed, three quarters of small businesses say that road works have a negative impact on their business whether it is wasting valuable time in traffic, reducing sales or loss of earnings.
While the Local Government Association (LGA) have been calling for action by the government to limit the amount of road works that are carried out across the country, to reduce the risk of gridlock unnecessary carbon emissions and fuel, in the meantime there are some things that businesses can do to reduce the impact roadworks have on their earnings. With the help of Long term van hire specialists, here are 5 IDEAL ways businesses can overcome road works.
CHANGE THE LOCATION OF YOUR WORKERS
Take this opportunity to raise the profile of your business in another area of the city. If your business is all about retail and selling things, consider renting a market stall or a pop-up shop space. If you’re a restaurant or cafe, host some supper clubs or open a temporary pop up restaurant. After all, pop-up events can boost revenue, build buzz and increase brand awareness.
If you’re an office-based business, simply ask your employees to work from home so they don’t get stuck in traffic on the way to work. Not only will this maximise the time they spend actually doing their jobs by minimising time spent on the road, it may make you question why you have an office in the first place.
EXPLOIT THE SITUATION
This is an opportune moment to consider installing upgrades or redecorating. If your office is a dull and uninspiring place, now is the time to make some changes. A slew of research reveals how everything from artwork on the walls to desks with lots of natural light boosts productivity and it has been said that a well-designed office can increase your productivity by about 20%. If you’re a restauranteur who has been dreaming of upgrading your kitchen, do it now. You could even think about doing a relaunch after the road works have finished, unveiling your new look or menu.
TURN TO THE INTERNET
Use your website, social media, and e-mail marketing to let your clients know that you’re still here and open for business. Provide your customers with an enticing incentive to brave the traffic jam and come to your store. If you’re a restaurant, you could offer a 2-4-1 meal or giveaway a free cocktail or bottle of wine. If you’re in retail and sell through your website, boost online sales by offering a discount or provide a discount coupon that customers can use in store.
PUT UP TEMPORARY SIGNAGE
Perhaps the simplest way to overcome road works is to put up some temporary signage. By doing this you can let customers know you’re still there. You could also encourage customers to circumvent the road works by providing a different route to your shop.
