New business guide and online directory launched

Almost 2,000 local businesses have already signed up to be featured in the brand-new directory, which went online on Thursday.

The resource is a searchable collection of local companies, and it is hoped new and existing businesses will make use of it.

A shiny guide – complete with an iconic front cover featuring Splashpoint – provides advice on various useful organisations, and details how the council can help businesses.

Adur cabinet member for regeneration Pat Beresford said the new service has already proved useful in testing.

He said: “We were looking for commemorative swords to present to the crew of the HMS Shoreham recently, and we were looking for someone to supply them.

“After searching, the best supplier was based at a unit by Shoreham Airport.

“We couldn’t believe that something like that was available so close. We never knew they were there.”

With around 4,500 businesses in the area, the councils hope as many as possible will sign up to be listed in the free service.

The hope is businesses will be encouraged to look for what they require closer to home.

Mr Beresford said: “For existing businesses, it is about working locally and encouraging companies to look locally for new services before they have to go out to other areas.

“We would love to sign up every single business in the area, and encourage businesses which are not already on the directory to get in touch.”

The new guide and directory is the first comprehensive online service the council has produced.

The online directory is online now.

Visit www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/business-directory

For the full story, see the Herald and Gazette, out Thursday, July 4.