Company spotlight: Bowker Group

Just weeks before the release of Lancashire Business View’s 100th issue, we’re delighted to look back at our first ever issue from March 2005 and speak with some of the advertisers that have been with us along the journey.

The Bowker Group, advertiser since the first issue, supports businesses to develop their current and future workforce, providing Lancashire’s next generation of talent.

Bowker Motor Group is family owned and run, representing prestige automotive franchises of BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad and Porsche in Lancashire.

Amy Lancaster-Hall, group marketing nanager at Bowker, shares her experience working with Lancashire Business View over the years.

LBV: How did your business first get involved with Lancashire Business View magazine?

ALH: We are proud to have been a supporter of the magazine since the very first edition. When Richard reached out to us, we jumped at the opportunity of being able to promote our business to, as well as being able to connect with other businesses in the county.

LBV: What changes have you seen in the Lancashire business community since being involved with Lancashire Business View when it started in 2005?

ALH: I’ve recently read that there are over 80,000 businesses in Lancashire and 12,000 new businesses started last year alone! I think this proves that entrepreneurial belief in the county is even stronger. Just look at the UCLAN investment in the Adelphi Quarter. And here at Bowker we have invested in a new Porsche Centre. The county is blessed with leaders who continue to back the Red Rose County.

LBV: How has your business changed in this time?

ALH: Our Group has grown and evolved so much since 2005. We’ve been awarded new franchises, developed existing sites and recruited additional staff members for our teams. The way we market and sell our products has moved from traditional to online solutions, making it easier for customers to get in contact and do business with us. As a marketer, it has completely changed the way we serve our customers. It’s strange to think that, back in 2005, Facebook was only a year old! There was no Twitter or Instagram then. Now social media and SEO are a mainstay of the way we help our customers every day.

LBV: Do you feel Lancashire Business View benefits Lancashire? And if so, how?

ALH: In my opinion, Lancashire Business View is the most well-respected business magazine in our county. That’s why we’ve been supporters for all this time. It’s the go to social media feed, website and magazine for the hot topics affecting and influencing the Lancashire business community together with providing valuable support and advice.

LBV: How do you feel that your involvement with Lancashire Business View has benefited your business?

ALH: Being involved in Lancashire Business View has presented us with many opportunities to promote every aspect of our business, from new appointments to driver guides and fleet management advice.

LBV: Do you have any words of advice for businesses who may be looking to get involved with Lancashire Business View in the future?

ALH: My advice would be don’t just stick to an advert in the magazine. Try out all the opportunities - i.e. round tables, networking events, Red Rose Awards, Hub membership - and see which benefits your business the most. And get involved in the LBV community - there are many benefits to be enjoyed!

Since the magazine launched in 2005, it has steadily grown and become a trusted source of news and advice for Lancashire’s business community.

Businesses interested in advertising in the 100th issue of Lancashire Business View, with the opportunity to share your business with our 50,000 readers, can get in touch with commercial director, Stephen Bolton on stephen@lancashirebusinessview.co.uk or 07966 090175.

For more details, visit https://www.lancashirebusinessview.co.uk/the-magazine/forward-features