Bestway Retail has launched a pilot scheme across a select number of retailers in collaboration with Socio Local, a digital marketing platform.
Socio Local simplifies the process of managing multiple social media pages, helping retailers create and schedule content across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X from a single dashboard.
Bestway noted that with access to branded content, promotional assets and suggested posts, retailers can maintain a “consistent and engaging presence”.
Following a trial period of three months, Bestway is hoping to roll out the collaboration across its estate of retailers.
Bestway Retail’s Head of Marketing, Mindy Mondair, commented: “Retailers are increasingly leaning into the digital side of marketing, recognising that a strong local social media presence is crucial for driving engagement within communities.
“And we’ve listened to our retail partners who have called for better support and tools to help them manage their social media. In response, we’re delighted to introduce Socio Local, which is the number one management platform specifically tailored to achieve better reach, engagement and instore performance by leveraging both branded and local store social content, to make social media management effortless. It’s built especially for retailers and has been inspired by their requests and needs.
“The platform is designed to support retailers’ stores with high quality, localised content that enhances brand visibility and increases engagement. It’s more than just about social media – it’s about maximising success and driving sales at every opportunity.
“We also understand that not all retailers are experienced with social media, and their focus also needs to be on running their business, which is why Socio Local provides easy-to-use tools that simplify the process. Whether using supplied branded content or creating customised posts, stores can maintain a continuous online presence with minimal effort”.
Bestway cited a number of benefits for retailers using Socio Local, including increased local awareness, boosting product visibility (ensuring offers and promotions get attention from the online community), and driving engagement to encourage customer interaction and loyalty through social media posts.
Mondair concluded: “Retailers can save time by storing, creating and scheduling all their content in one place – it’s straightforward and easy to manage through this centralised approach.
“Furthermore, retailers will be able to manage their communities effectively, through monitoring and responding to customer reviews, comments and direct messages.
“We are looking forward to the results of this trial and believe it is a market-leading approach to support retailers and help them boost engagement and sales within their communities”.
Michael Nolan, CEO and Co-founder of Socio Local, added: “We know all too well the importance of optimising local social media for today’s physical retailers. We fully believe that this will be the start of a new era in how grocery and convenience leverages the power of social media and its connection with local communities.
“Bestway Retail now has the opportunity to drive awareness of products and promotions into their retailers’ communities and support sales through hundreds of social media pages.”
NAM Implications:
- As always in social media, content counts…
- Retailers having professional support with high quality, localised content…
- …have to benefit in terms of enhancement of brand visibility and increased engagement.
- Worth a try…
