How do you make the most of the summer show season when there are no summer shows?

As the lambs, calves, bulbs and lush grass (once we get a bit more rain perhaps) fill the landscape and the countryside starts to feel warmer and friendlier, farmers and other rural dwellers can usually look forward to the busy calendar ahead. By the time we have fought through late frosts, Easter bank holidays, tax returns, IACS submissions, grant applications and many other industry-specific, time-consuming business requirements, the first summer sun and the promise of social interaction is always more than welcome.So sad therefore that this summer will be the second in a row in which we will miss out on the critical meetups and business opportunities that shows present.

How then can we replace at least some of what the summer show season offers? We are now all adept at using Zoom for catching up and sharing highs and lows with friends and family but it’s not the same. If you are feeling a bit low, make sure that you make the most of the relaxing restrictions and get together with friends or family for a BBQ or small catch up. Just a wee chat and a friendly face and a natter can make a real difference. Remember also that if you are struggling you can reach out to RSABI on 0300 111 4166.For business owners, shows are extremely important platforms, responsible for much of the coming year’s successful trading. They provide a sympathetic atmosphere and relevant all-in-one shop window to those trying or selling new products, discovering or promoting new concepts, and spotting or setting the latest trends. To replace some of this missing opportunity in 2021, there are a few options you could look at, depending on the type of business you are:

• Get in touch with your local or regional newspaper and see if they have any forthcoming rural or business features that could provide some exposure for your business within your area
• Make sure that you are very active on social media to reach the same types of people you would see at shows with the messages that you want them to hear
• Consider sending some of your clients, or potential clients, a wee gift in the post to replace some of the hospitality you might have offered them at a local show  - this will not only make them smile but also remind them that you are still there to support them
• Take some time to review your website and marketing materials to make sure that they are really hitting the mark. As your digital shop window, they are even more important when you won’t be out and about meeting people at events
• Speak to Scene & Herd about how commissioning or sponsoring a podcast can boost awareness of not only who you are and what you do, but also your expertise. Have a listen to the episode featuring Douglas Home Accountants and Land Agents FBR Seed who discuss on-farm tourism by following this link https://pod.fo/e/c5f73 . Get in touch with us if you are interested in commissioning or sponsoring an episode of the OnFARM podcast. With around 60 episodes under our belt, we are ranking in the top 10% of podcasts globally and really making an impact.   Simply email anna@sceneandherdpr.co.uk to find out more.

We shall be raising a glass to the summer shows this year and look forward to seeing many familiar faces across the country in 2022.Anna DaviesDirectorScene & Herd PR and Marketing