Page 27 - January February 2016
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Marketing the NMRA – the future Mike Hughes, Marketing Coordinator
We are preparing our marketing strategy for 2016/17 and beyond. At the Derby Convention I unveiled the greatest marketing tool that the Region has. That is you, our members. You have ideas, vision, energy, experience, and expertise in abundance. I’m now asking you to share your know-how.
Here is a very brief list with minimal explanation, in no particular order, of ideas that the marketing focus group have come up with. Can you add to this list?
1. Adding a ‘NMRA British Region’ line to email signatures.
Very simple idea and so easy to implement.
2. Holding Events not Meets
Meets suggest meetings, which can be boring. Events are fun!
3. Arrange Region outings to various places of railway interest.
Already taking action on this. We are looking at a day out at Peco combined with a visit to Bob Phelps’s layout. Where else do you think we should go?
4. We should look to find latent members from people who are already interested.
We should have a presence at events that have railway modellers already attending.
5. Geography
Where we hold events, meeting places for members, where we can get members together.
6. Potential New Members
Targeting people who are about to retire and are looking for a hobby. Also looking at young people who are looking to get practical skills.
7. Associating with other Societies
After a successful day with the MRC it has been suggested that we find other societies to exchange ideas/hold events with. Your suggestions welcome.
8. Member identification and internal marketing products
We should have items that identify members and promote the Region. Shirts, baseball caps, mugs, etc. What do you want?
We want you to add to this list. No idea is too small or too silly. What seems obvious to you may not be obvious to others. You can help us take the Region forward.
Send your ideas to marketing@nmrabr.org.uk or by post to 108 St Andrews Road, Worthing, BN13 1HJ or phone/text 07973 430022.
A nice prototype for the narrow guage fans? Hillcrest 10 at Mesachie Lake BC Photo: Peter Cox
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