Online retailer Amazon's announcement that all their staff must return to the office is a positive signal for UK logistics, according to logistics marketing experts Full Mix Marketing.
Amazon’s Chief Executive, Andy Jassy, announced on 16th September that all home or hybrid-working staff have to return to the office five days a week from January.
“Amazon is the latest of many firms in many industries who are returning entirely to the office. With those who make and influence decisions back at their desks, it makes it easier to reach and engage them with the right marketing” says Sarah West, Managing Director of Full Mix Marketing.
The pandemic in 2020 resulted in many office workers being sent home to work. However, concerns over drops in productivity, innovation and workers’ mental health has seen many companies and organisation reverse their working from home policies.
“A common comment over recent years has been how hard it can be to get hold of the right person when contacting a company. Marketing has very effectively adapted to the less centralised workforce but the return to the office does make it easier to reach key people and attract new business” adds Sarah.
Full Mix Marketing specialises in B2B (business-to-business) marketing and works with many companies in logistics, manufacturing, engineering, technology, construction and business services.
The agency says they and the logistics firms they support have experienced first-hand the reported rise in demand for UK transport and warehousing.
“Though there have been challenges, UK logistics appears to have benefitted from the growth in online retail, home delivery and the drive to shorten global supply chains. Urban locations, greater automation and an increased focus on sustainability are just some of the ways they are satisfying demand” states Sarah.
The CIM Chartered Marketer and her team believe marketing is proving key to helping their clients take advantage of these increased opportunities.
“In a large and competitive sector, marketing is more important and more effective than ever for transport and logistics firms. Whilst word of mouth and reputation remain paramount, it is being more visible and standing out from the crowd that frequently result in the biggest uplift in sales” says Sarah.
One of the particular areas the agency has seen its clients in logistics, transport and warehousing benefit from is direct marketing.
“Most companies know who their ideal customers are, so we work with them to reach them via email, mail, social media and other direct marketing. It’s proven a game-changer for many and will become even more effective as more major companies return to working in the office full time” concludes Sarah.