It is critical to recognize the substantial role that community marketing and branding plays in the retention and expansion of existing businesses. By effectively marketing a community's assets and nurturing a strong brand identity, a community can create an environment that not only attracts visitors but also retains and propels existing businesses toward sustained growth.
Building a strong marketing plan and brand identity will:
Create a Vibrant Eco System
Make existing Grand Strand small businesses feel valued by crafting marketing and branding efforts that articulate community support for a vibrant and welcoming business ecosystem. This begins with a well-defined and positive brand identity that reflects the unique business characteristics, strengths and values of the community.
Attract and Retain Talent
By branding the Grand Strand as a great place to visit, live and work, it will be easier to attract skilled employees. A strong brand reinforces the idea that employees aren't just part of a business but members of a thriving community.
Support Individual Business Expansion Goals
Share local success stories and growth opportunities as part of a branding and marketing campaign to inspire Grand Strand businesses to learn from others’ experience, obtain new information and thus seek new opportunity.
Foster a Supportive Ecosystem
Send a clear message: "The Grand Strand supports our businesses.” Encourage small businesses to invest more in their local operations. This not only persuades existing businesses to stay but also to identify with a community that takes pride in its enterprises and is willing to stand by them through thick and thin.
Attract Investment
Establish a reputation for being an attractive prospect for external investment. A powerful brand message backed by effective marketing efforts fuels the attention of investors and potential partners. When new investment comes into a community, it further drives existing expansion efforts.
Promote Community Engagement
Engage the citizens of the broader Grand Strand community. This creates a sense of belonging and unity, making it more likely that residents will support local businesses, further bolstering retention and expansion efforts.
