The Van Plan, by The Sussex Sign Company
Your Van Plus a Marketing Plan
We know most tradespeople & small business owners across Sussex are great at what they do but don't have time for marketing. THE VAN PLAN gives you more than just van wraps or vehicle signwriting - it's a simple 8 step marketing guide for trades & small businesses to help you attract better clients and build a business you're proud of.
About This Guide
Ultimately we, The Sussex Sign Company, want to provide van wraps & vehicle signwriting for your van or vehicle! That's what we do.
But we also want that van or vehicle to do the very best job it can for you, helping you achieve the goals you have for yourself and your business. And to do that there are too often parts of the jigsaw missing.
THE VAN PLAN is an educational guide - a checklist of marketing activities, that together, along with your signwritten van will deliver results far beyond what a van can do on its own.
Meet Roger - A Tradesman Similar to You Maybe?
Roger is a hardworking, reliable Sussex-based sole-trader. He's an electrician, plumber, tiler, or gardener - and he's great at what he does. But there's a problem:
Roger is invisible to new clients.
He's been relying on word-of-mouth for years, but it's no longer enough. His van is unbranded, his online presence is next to nothing, and he's overwhelmed by the confusing world of marketing. He doesn't want to waste money. He doesn't want to get ripped off. He just wants to:
- Look professional
- Attract consistent local work
- Feel in control of his business
Roger doesn't need flashy branding or a massive marketing agency. He needs a clear, simple guide - written by people who understand trades like his - that helps him stand out and grow steadily. That's where THE VAN PLAN comes in from The Sussex Sign Company.
The MAGIC8: 8 Steps to Get You Noticed, Increase Enquiries & Grow Your Business
THE VAN PLAN gives you more than just a signwritten van - it's a proven set of eight core tactics that will make your van and your brand work better, processing new business opportunities far more effectively.
1. Local Landline Number
A local area code (01273, 01444, 01903) builds trust and makes you look established. It can forward to your mobile, but shows you're a professional business, not just 'a bloke with a van'.
2. Professional Email Address
Use a branded domain email (e.g., roger@rogerselectrics.co.uk) instead of Gmail or Hotmail. It instantly upgrades your credibility and tells customers your website address.
3. One-Page Website
A simple website with photos of your work, customer reviews, FAQs, and contact info. It's your brochure where people can research you after seeing your van.
4. Google My Business Setup
Register your business and post photos regularly. This improves your local search visibility fast and helps customers find you when they need your services.
5. Collect Google Reviews
Ask customers to leave reviews with photos of your work. This turbo-charges your local reputation and trust while they research you online.
6. Call Answering Service
Never miss a lead again. A professional receptionist (or AI) answers your calls when you're on the tools, reassuring customers and capturing every opportunity.
7. Simple Social Media
Share photos and videos of your work through Facebook or Instagram. Build trust through consistency and become the go-to name people remember.
8. Neighbourhood Cards
Leave branded cards for neighbours when you're working. Turn one job into three as neighbours see your van, check your website, and make that call.
How The Van Plan Works in Action
Your signwritten van is parked outside Number 38, and now all the neighbours know that Beryl is having work done. They know your name & brand from the van.
You leave behind branded neighbourhood cards with a little extra info, link to the website, special offer etc - this might just turn one job into three.
Neighbours talk. They'll pop round to Beryl - "What was Roger like? Did he do a good job? Can I see?"
The signwritten van is working, the neighbourhood card is on the fridge, they're checking out your website, they're loving the reviews, and they love what Beryl's had done.
They follow you on Instagram and after payday they make that call. Margaret (your telephone answering receptionist) takes their message and number, and you're seeing them tomorrow.
The meeting and the quote is a foregone conclusion. They know your work, they know they like you, they want what you can do. They're assured by Beryl, by Margaret and the other reviews. You've upsold and quoted full price - and they don't even haggle.
You don't just want van wraps or vehicle signwriting...
You want a business that looks the part and pulls in consistent Sussex work. For that, you need a plan that considers the MAGIC8 components in your marketing system.
With THE VAN PLAN, you now have a clear way forward - one that goes far beyond the signwriting and helps you build a business you're proud of.
Your MAGIC8 Checklist
Bonus: Networking events like BNI breakfasts can take you even further!
Marketing is never done - it's a constant evolution as your business grows. Next stages could include Facebook Ads, Search Engine Optimisation and a CRM system. But the MAGIC8 are your foundation pillars - start here first!
Your Next Steps: DIY or Done For You?
Option 1: DIY
Now that you've read THE VAN PLAN, follow the plan one step at a time. You now have the tactics and clarity to start building a consistent, trusted, local brand.
If you have questions regarding the Plan, one of our Trade Marketing Mentors can help.
Option 2: Let Us Help
We offer a "Done for You" service that can handle any (or all) parts of the Plan.
From logo design to web setup, social media branding, Google listings & Call Answering - we'll help you look like the business you want to be.
Ready to Grow Your Business with The Van Plan?
Call 01444 226373 to get friendly, practical advice
or email us sales2@sussexsigns.com