Print Solutions: Positive About Print
Fujifilm has launched a new ‘shop local’ marketing campaign to support photo retailers re-opening following the long lockdown period.
Since photo retailers UK wide have been permitted to open their doors since June 15, the shop local message is being advertised nationwide to help small businesses boost sales after the long period of closure.
The campaign also aims to inspire customers to rediscover the joy of photography by visiting their local store, all while supporting independent photo businesses.
The initiative builds on the helpful services already offered by Fujifilm during lockdown, which includes a suspension of all partner fees until August 2020, free business development webinars, and social content curated with stylist Harriet Langsbury.
Together, Fujifilm and Harriet created a series of videos to showcase the versatility of printed photography products. The digital assets have proven so popular with retail customers that the series will continue post lockdown.
Gloria McCann, marketing manager at Fujifilm’s Photo Imaging division, said: ‘With over 30% of retail businesses with an ecommerce service reporting an increase in online sales during May (according to the Office for National Statistics), it is a clear indication of the appetite for consumer goods. As a result, it is really important that we help photo retailers make the most of this demand as they re-open in order to have the best chance of business recovery.
‘When customers choose to shop local, they are supporting businesses in their communities, as well as getting an amazing photo product. For those of us spending more time at home, deciding to purchase from a fantastic range of photography printing possibilities, including personalised photo mugs, cushions and wall art, is a great way to refresh interiors, or to give to someone as a special gift.’
Wendy Gray, independent Fujifilm retail owner of Frosts Photo Centre Limited, based in Mere Green Sutton Coldfield, said: ‘The customer response has been amazing since our re-opening just over a week ago. There has been a lot of demand, especially from customers who appear to have used the lockdown period to organise their photos for printing. Because of this, photobooks, canvases and panels have all been really popular. Personalised photo cushions and mugs in the lead-up to Father’s Day were also bestsellers, and we expect this to continue as more people seek unique photo gifts for all occasions.
‘We will continue to work with Fujifilm to generate interest in shopping locally and have some great joint photo offers and promotions to help encourage future sales. The aim is to always inspire customers to make great photo choices for their home, family and friends.’
All Fujifilm retailers have been provided with Covid-19 safety advice to encourage both safe working practices for staff and shopping experiences for customers.
With over 170 Fujifilm photography retailers across the UK, a huge choice of different locations can be found by visiting www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk/store-locator/
