Sales Development Programme Targets Lisburn Firms

Ten businesses in Lisburn have benefited from a Sales Development Programme organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

Companies from a range of sectors, including Professional Services, Renewable Energy, Retail and Tourism took part.

The scheme stemmed from the Council's aspirations to support small and medium sized enterprises in the area. Participants are provided with training to develop the skills and confidence needed to target new opportunities both during and after the programme.

Adrian Wilson of Green 17, who participated in the programme, said: "Being part of this innovative program at LCCC was a really positive experience for Green17 as it helped us focus on our strengths as a small business. We have a plan in place to target a more refined list of companies, rather than relying on word of mouth or dealing with clients that contact us. We now have a better understanding of the tendering process, and have refined our sales techniques to appeal to prospective clients that are an excellent fit for both parties."

Alderman Leathem, Chairman of the Council's Development Committee, speaking about the programme, said: "The council is committed to delivering a variety of programmes to offer valuable support to local companies of all sizes. This sales programme was designed to assist local businesses with selling more, generating sales quicker and making more profit.

"The success of the Programme is being demonstrated by the new contacts created and deals secured. Web development design agency Green17 has identified opportunities with high value Food Processing and Food Manufacturing organisations for labelling design services. The company has secured new contracts with Chest Heart Stroke and the Aberdelghy Golf Course utilising the lead generation and sales pitching advice provided through the mentoring programme. I wish all 10 participating companies every success as they put their learning into practise and I look forward to hearing about the future growth of their businesses."

Other reasons given by the participants for registering on the programme included: developing the company's product portfolio, streamlining the business and growing their brand.

Other successes for the participants of this programme include a rebranding exercise to focus on product strengths, creation of job opportunities, and the identification of new markets that would be applicable to their business and predicted turnover growth.



(JG)