Businesses offered free social media expertise to boost community interaction

Commercial insurer NFU Mutual has partnered with Maybe* to provide retail insurance policyholders with free access to social media expertise. The new service comes as a part of NFU Mutual’s wider package of support for customers and communities during the pandemic. This comes as research from the insurer reveals that 37% of shoppers named social media as one of the most likely ways they would discover a new retailer. The partnership offers retail insurance policyholders 12 months free access to social media know-how and management tools, in a bid to help connect them with potential local customers. The year-long membership is worth £1,140, giving new and existing customers a leg up on their customer engagement. Providing partner Maybe* is part of the Government’s High Streets Task Force, set up to provide expertise, knowledge and support to help regenerate high streets across the country. Frank Woods, Retail Insurance Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “Over a quarter of shoppers increased the amount of business they do with local retailers during the pandemic, and we want to help our retail policyholders use social media to maintain those relationships, as well as attracting new business.” Research by NFU Mutual has shown that 55% of shoppers want to support their local high street, with social media potentially playing a huge part in how they can do this. The rise in businesses using platforms such as apps and social media to keep profits afloat has been undeniable during the pandemic. “By maximising the benefits they see from their social media channels, local retailers can have meaningful interactions with customers, develop business resilience and potentially drive sales, helping them to bounce back after the pandemic,” adds Frank. The offer includes tools, which can help businesses stay organised and offer increased rewards for their customers. “As part of the service, they’ll be included in online High Street Guides which promote all local businesses and share local rewards with customers, delivered via their mobile phones. Maybe* provides this all in one place supported by a friendly team,” explains Polly Barnfield, CEO of Maybe*. The offer is available until 30 April 2022 and customers looking to register for the service can contact their local NFU Mutual Agent.