BUSINESSES in Darlington are urged to join an online hub to boost the town's economy.
Set up in October last year, the hub - named DarloBiz - has already attracted hundreds of online users who promote businesses through a number of social networking sites, including Twitter and Facebook.
It is the brainchild of local business owners, Anthony Davison and Nicola Burt-Skinner, and encourages people to promote their business on Twitter using the hashtag #DarloBiz.
The duo has also set up a dedicated Twitter account - @DarloBiz – and host a weekly online networking session on Twitter every Monday night from 7pm, using the hashtag #DarloBizHour.
Mr Davison said: “We are really just doing what needs to be done. All it is is an electronic way of handing out flyers for businesses, and doesn’t cost anything.”
With almost 1,000 users, the scheme has now received backing from Darlington Borough Council.
The council’s cabinet member for economy and regeneration, Chris McEwan, said: “I think anything we can do to support business in an easy way, we need to do. Business communication is critical and we need to be using all media and Twitter is the media of choice for some businesses.
“It is important to get behind the positive work they are doing, they are not just sitting back, they are working with us and other to really try and encourage economic activity.”
To take part visit twitter.com/DarloBiz or facebook.com/DarloBiz
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