Surf Coast Localised grows in numbers

THE Surf Coast branch of Localised has attracted more than 260 local businesses since its launch in August.

Localised brings together local suppliers and local buyers from across a particular region onto a digital platform to network, connect and build meaningful business relationships.

According to Surf Coast Localised, the top five industries listing on the website so far in the Surf Coast Shire are:
• Building, construction and trades (9.8 per cent)
• Retail trade (7.5 per cent)
• Accommodation (6.7 per cent)
• Professional services (6.7 per cent), and
• Healthcare and medical services (6.7 per cent).

A count of the towns listed in personal profiles shows most members have signed up from Torquay (170), followed by Anglesea (29), Aireys Inlet (28), Jan Juc (26), and Lorne (16).

Since the August launch event, Localised have introduced new features: Networks, Announcements, and Expert Articles.

The Expert Articles tool has been designed to help businesses build their brand and get more customers. Write an article about a business topic that customers and prospective customers would value and Localised will present the expertise to hundreds of local businesses via the platform and its weekly digests.

Share business news such as new appointments, awards, milestones or latest developments with the Announcements tool, while Networks such as trader groups and chambers of commerce are a way to work with a hyperlocal business community.

Localised Meet-ups are also a great way to build your business networks. Meet face-to-face with other like-minded local business owners, hear first-hand about the latest developments and have a crack at a Localised Lightning Pitch – 30 seconds to introduce yourself and summarise your business offering.

The most recent Meet-up was held at the Deakin Cats Community Centre at GMHBA Stadium on Friday, and featured a number of guest speakers, including Geelong Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer Bernadette Uzelac, Geelong Cats community development manager Sarah Albon, and Darrell Fenton and Ash Dowie from Adroit Insurance and Risk.

For more information, head to surfcoast.localised.com.au.