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Derby 3 launch business swapping service during lockdown

Derby 3 launch business swapping service during lockdown

Three Derby based entrepreneurs have created and launched a swapping services for small business during the Covid 19 lockdown.

Taking the much-loved Multi-Coloured Swap Shop from the 70’s and early 80’s it has now been modernised for the 21st Century.

Inspired by an idea from Tracy Harrison, CEO of Derby’s Safe and Sound Group, Derby Swap Shop has been pulled together in two weeks by 3 Derby-based businesses.

Led by Rachel Hayward of the award-winning, bid writing consultancy service that is Ask the Chameleon, Rachel reached out to others in the Derby business community to create Derby Swap Shop.

She said:

“I knew that the Derby business community would want to help each other during the lockdown, but I needed help to bring this to reality.  I knew exactly who to call and the outcome has far exceeded original expectations."

The team includes Dean Jackson founder, owner and CEO of the internationally recognised, Derby-based sports apparel brand Huub and newcomers to the Derby market think3, led by Lee Marples and 3 other young entrepreneurs.

Derby Swap Shop will connect individuals, businesses or charities from across Derby and Derbyshire who are looking for help, and in return they will provide a swap offering services or goods.

Over 40 people were present at the Zoom launch, to hear how they can still keep their organisations going during lockdown and 24 new member accounts were created in the first 10 minutes of the site going live.

Dean Jackson said:

“The whole idea is based on retro trading and is ideal for what we need in our businesses right now – we need to keep going and Derby Swap Shop is the perfect platform – we are now keen to see just how many swaps we can support.“

Lee Marples:

“The Derby business community really is like no other. Where else, but in Derby, would 3 businesses come together during the lockdown and create a service for the wider community that really harnesses the spirit of collaboration and partnerships. I and the rest of the think3 team are extremely proud to have been asked to be part of the Derby Swap Shop.”

Further information is available at www.derbyswapshop.co.uk


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