Every local business deserves to be found. Whether you run a shop, café, restaurant, trades business, salon, professional service, community organisation or home-based enterprise, getting noticed by the right people can make a real difference.

That is the idea behind Cleveleys Now, a local online directory designed to help people discover businesses serving Thornton and Cleveleys and to help independent businesses build a stronger presence in their own community.

A local shop window that is open online

Your business does not need to be on the high street to serve local customers. You might work from home, travel to customers, run a mobile service or welcome people into a premises. A directory listing gives people another way to find out who you are and what you do when they are looking for a product or service.

Instead of relying only on passing trade, word of mouth or social media posts that quickly disappear down a feed, a directory provides a dedicated place where a customer can look for the type of business they need.

Help customers discover what you offer

People search for many different things locally, from somewhere to eat or a gift to buy, to a plumber, hairdresser, mechanic, cleaner, accountant or a specialist service. A well-organised directory helps visitors explore businesses by category and find options relevant to their needs.

For business owners, being included in a relevant local directory can create another route for potential customers to discover them. It is not a guarantee of enquiries or sales, but it gives your business another opportunity to be seen.

Give people the information they need

A useful business listing should help a potential customer understand what you do and how to take the next step. Depending on the details supplied and the listing features available, this can include your business name, a description of your products or services, your location or service area, contact details, photographs and links to your website or social media pages.

Clear, accurate information makes it easier for customers to decide whether your business is right for them. It also helps you present your business professionally before a customer makes contact.

Make your online presence work harder

Your website and social media accounts each have a role to play, but not every customer will already know your business name. A local directory can complement the channels you already use by giving people another place to encounter your business.

Share your listing with existing customers, add it to your social media posts or include it in your marketing communications where appropriate. The more consistently you present your business details online, the easier it can be for customers to recognise and contact you. Keep your information up to date so opening hours, services and contact details do not mislead visitors.

Support the independent business community

Thornton and Cleveleys are home to businesses of many sizes and types. Independent businesses bring choice, character, skills and personal service to the area. Helping residents discover them makes it easier to consider local options when spending money or choosing a service.

Cleveleys Now aims to bring these businesses together in one local destination. From established firms to new ventures, from high-street shops to tradespeople working across the area, the directory is intended to make local businesses easier to find.

A directory for a wide range of businesses

You do not have to be a shop with a window display to be relevant. The directory can serve hospitality venues, retailers, takeaways, cafés, tradespeople, builders, vehicle services, health and beauty providers, tutors, consultants, creative businesses, home services, professional advisers and many other legitimate local enterprises.

If your business serves people in Thornton or Cleveleys, a local listing may be a useful addition to your marketing. Businesses based outside the area may also be relevant where they genuinely serve local customers.

Getting started is straightforward

Visit Cleveleys Now and look for the option to add your business. Provide the correct details, choose the most relevant category and supply a clear description that explains what makes your business useful to customers. Add a suitable photograph and working contact links wherever the listing allows.

Before submitting, check spelling, phone numbers, website addresses and service information. A listing is most useful when it gives customers a reliable picture of your business.

Be part of Cleveleys Now

Cleveleys Now is being developed as a community-focused directory that helps residents find local businesses and helps businesses strengthen their visibility in the area they serve. It is an additional marketing opportunity, not a replacement for good service, an effective website or your own customer relationships.

If you own or manage an independent business in Thornton or Cleveleys, consider adding your details and becoming part of a growing local business resource. Help local people find you, learn about what you offer and take the next step towards getting in touch.

Visit CleveleysNow.com and add your business to the directory.