Local Greens is a non-profit organic veg bag scheme that operates in South London. The service brings seasonal, UK-grown organic fruit and veg to the local community to support the UK food system. By working with UK only farmers, their aim is to make the food system fairer and more sustainable. Throughout the pandemic demand for their services soared. We chatted to volunteer Alexandra to learn how their small team used a Nextdoor business page to build their local reputation and connect with customers directly.
How does the service work?
“We deliver food to local community collection points for local residents to pick up. The collection points are easy to reach by walking or biking which helps to cut down on customers’ carbon footprint from shopping. We also encourage community interaction as the collection points are local businesses, community hubs, pubs and restaurants.”
How have you used Nextdoor to grow your business?
“We use our Nextdoor business page to connect with local customers. We can specifically target posts to neighbourhoods we know will work well for us like Tulse Hill, Norwood and Streatham”.
“Local customers on Nextdoor added recommendations to our business page too – it’s the best word of mouth marketing tool we have”.
“We’ve also been able to start a community support group for people who have been self-isolating to ensure they get their food. It’s great to be able to connect with neighbours like that”.
What are your tips for getting recommendations?
“Getting a recommendation feels reaffirming and positive. It makes me feel we have reached someone and they’ve taken the time to let us know they are happy with their service. Recommendations are so important!”
“We ask our local customers to recommend us on Nextdoor in our newsletter. We also use our social channels to interact with any campaigns such as the #lovelocal one from Nextdoor.”
What would you say to other businesses who are thinking of joining Nextdoor?
“It’s worthwhile joining Nextdoor because you will be connecting with your neighbours and an immediate pool of customers. It’s a place to find people who want to find you.”
“On your Nextdoor business page, you can share your story with your local community. There will be people in the community who are looking to support your business.”
What does community mean for your business?
“Community means helping one another out. When our partner businesses like local pubs and restaurants closed their doors during the lockdown earlier this year, we helped get the word out about their online events amongst our community.”
Do you have a local business and wish to build your reputation locally? Find out more on our Local Business information and sign up page here. Join the neighbourhood conversation here.
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