Brixton Cycles were one of the 63 organisations that came along to Idea Shop in February. Our advice focused on getting this inspirational outfit the recognition it deserves as a co-operative whole heartedly working in the best interests of it members, customers and local community.

We suggested taking Brixton Cycles’ viewpoint out on the streets with a chalkboard sharing staff’s ‘Thoughts Of The Day’ and general philosophy with passing pedestrians and cyclists. In putting this into action, the team went one better and rather than a chalkboard that could be folded away at the end of each day, they decided to paint a huge part of the shop front with blackboard paint to make getting their message out and into the community a permanent fixture.

We also wanted BC to harness the affection that their customers have for them and collaborate with them by ‘crowd sourcing’ ideas. Brixton Cycles stock a legendary if not iconic own label brand of cycling gear, so we recommended a customer competition to design a T-shirt. They’ve put it in to action and it’s been a huge success, with staff receiving a heap of entries from people keen to see their designs become part of the notorious Brixton Cycles brand.

Daring to get digital was also something we advocated strongly and after a few ‘How To’ pointers from us they are embracing Facebook to connect with customers and keep them up to date with all shop goings on as well as answer questions. The team are also spending time on cycling forums, talking to their customers online and uploading photos to give people more of a feel for the ethos of the store, the people behind it and what makes them tick.

They are also having a big ol’ birthday party at the end of May open to all – yet another way to connect with their fans and supporters and share the spirit of the people, the place and what they do.

Find out more about Brixton Cycles at http://www.brixtoncycles.co.uk/

Post by Clair Whitefield