In this edition, we have news about the Melbourne Makers Project, tips on what makes a successful brand and information on upcoming business workshops at Council.
We have two business profiles this month- Post Industrial Design and Lucky Pet Supplies. Both businesses are located along Barkly Street West Footscray, and were nominated for the Civic Business Awards. They are a shining example of how to run successful businesses out West!
We hope you enjoy the March edition of Maribyrnong Business Bulletin.
The City Business Team
Maribyrnong City Council
Business Networking Events, Seminars and Workshops
2016
Understanding Marketing Workshop - Footscray 23 March
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Marketing is how well potential and existing customers know what your business does. At this workshop you will develop a marketing action plan to focus effort and resources in the right areas.
Your Business in a Digital World Workshop - Footscray 13 April
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Do you feel confused, overwhelmed or nervous about taking your business online? If you answered yes, you've come to the right place!
Whether starting a new business or taking an existing business online, this short workshop will help you make informed decisions about the right online tools for your business.
Women in Business Networking Breakfast Wednesday 20 April 2016
7.00am-9.00am
Network your way through a delicious hot breakfast and gain valuable insights on how you too can have the perfect work/life balance whilst growing your business to a roaring success!
Draw inspiration and empowerment from our leading business women as they share their drive, knowledge, skills and passion for all things business.
This is a FREE Council event, but bookings are essential.
For more information contact rosie.sallemi@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Effective Business Networking Workshop - Footscray 11 May
6:30 - 8:30 pm
Did you know that 87% of business today is generating by networking? Love it or hate it, it is an essential practice for business success.
In this 2 hour workshop you will learn proven and effective networking techniques, learn how to build your confidence and start connecting with other small business people in your area.
Marketing for Growth Workshop - Footscray 1 June
6:30 - 10:00 pm
Already know about Marketing and now want to grow your business with new products, services or markets? Learn how to refine your existing marketing strategy to expand your business opportunities.
This hands on workshop will enable you to build a deeper understanding of your customers and focus your marketing strategy to grow your business.
Makers across Melbourne are now able to showcase their business and product offer on an exciting new digital platform.
How to get involved:
1. Visit the website - Visit the makers.melbourne website and learn more about the project; the partners and goals 2. Sign up to the website - Be visible, join a growing population of makers showcasing their creative and innovative businesses 3. Complete the Survey - Share your insights 4. Spread the Word - Use your networks and social media to let others know
Discover the intangible value of a strong brand, and how consistency across every visible aspect of your business including staff, vehicles, office, warehouse, website, uniforms and stationery helps enhance your reputation and ensure overall success.
Do you own a business and lodge your taxation requirements with electronic commerce interface? If the answer is yes, there are changes you need to know about.
Are You Looking to Link with Local Community Groups?
Put your business in front of the local community by becoming a Pitch Partner at the Community Pitch night held on 11 May 2016. Choose which community groups you support and take part in one of the biggest nights for community groups in Melbourne's West.
Situated in West Footscray, or in WeFo, as the locals like to call it, Post Industrial Design is an arty little gallery/store which sells an amazing array of hard to find art and giftware both in store and online. "We delight in all things quirky and left-of-field. We resist the notion of a throw away society. We rebel against the populist thought that good design is all about ‘straight lines’ . . . and YES we sometimes think minimalism can be boring. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY we think one should buy art because they love it and not because it matches the sofa".
Passionate about their pooches and puddy cats, Lucky Pet Supplies began as an online business five years ago and due to their success, opened a shop front in Barkly Village in May 2013. Lucky Pet holds a biannual Pet Rescue Day where they promote adopting rescue animals as well as supporting a number of rescue homes and offering discounts to their patrons. Lucky Pet has grown substantially since its inception and has quickly become a local favourite with the community. Lucky Pet Supplies will be holding a community pet rescue day on Saturday 19 March. Please visit their website for more information.