Laura Sandys MP has linked up with her Kent colleague, Damian Collins MP, to bring Google to East Kent in a drive to grow local businesses by getting them online. Laura will be welcoming Google to Thanet on Friday 27th April when the multinational internet and software company will be offering free one-to-one workshops for local companies.
Laura said: “I am delighted that Google has agreed to come to Thanet to help our local businesses increase their online presence and attract more trade. The ever-increasing success of online retailers shows just how important it is to be on the internet. Being online can really boost trade and help a company grow. In the UK alone, online sales for January this year were up 16% on 2011’s figures. When compared to a 2.1% increase in trade on the high street over the same period, it is clear just how vital it is to be online. This is also true for businesses offering services; people will frequently do their research online before deciding on a certain restaurant, hairdresser, florist or hotel. In an area which attracts tens of thousands of tourists a year, being accessible online will become more and more important for our local businesses.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for companies to get free advice from the experts at Google on what really works and I very much hope that this will provide a boost for our local economy.”
Google’s advice sessions will take place on Friday 27th April from 10am to 4pm at The Oak Hotel, Ramsgate. Advance booking is required. For more information or to book a session, please visit Google’s dedicated website: www.gbbo.co.uk/juicebar