Having spoken with a number of regular customers lately we are growing ever more concerned by people thinking they are booking a local company online, that turns out to be a national network.

There are a number of reasons to keep your business with local companies, as Nelson our mascot confirms:

1. you get a better service as we actually care
2. an ongoing relationship that builds trust
3. less overheads therefore we often charge less
4. you are supporting your local economy which in turn will come back to you
5. we are dead canny, honestly. Your safety is our paramount concern

Those who have used national companies know the pitfalls, so we aren't going to stoop to listing them here, but we have come up with pointers so you can spot the clangers on the internet and stay clear.

Generally their google ranking will be high on the page, if not at the top. but it will have AD next to it, showing they have paid for the privilege to appear in your search.

A national company should not show in the geographical search - if you look to the map, there should be pins for the real local companies. The same for a phone number - it should be local or a mobile. Steer clear of any starting with 0800 or 0845 etc. 

National companies also often have a contact us form, and it will ask you for your postcode or your area. Local companies don't do that as we know we can service you as you are local too!

Don't get us wrong, we are not saying all national companies are bad, as many local people thrive from being part of them with franchises or contracts and do give good service. They should also be doing their own marketing though so you know who they are.

It is so important in times like we are experiencing to stay local and support each other. If you would like quotes on anything from aerials, to satellite dishes, broadband or 5g boosting, CCTV and roof top caging or cowls, then do get in touch with our Jayne on 0191 252 4308 and she will pop you in our diary.