Business Innovation Towards a dynamic low carbon marine leisure economy

Thinking Outside the Box Creative process Exploiting new ideas Improving products or services Creating new partnerships Putting ideas, processes and creativity into practical steps.

North Devon Surf Bus A bus service sensitive to the area’s needs and fit for purpose – Allows watersports equipment on board public buses – A service which runs more frequently to local beaches Why? – Reduce congestion on coastal roads – Improve access for non car users, residents or visitors – Encourage sustainable living – Protect the natural beauty of the AONB – Assist the Museum of British Surfing with their Transport Plan – Create a link with the new Ilfracombe Ferry crossing to Wales

The process Market research  Determine level of demand, route, number of stops, frequency, cost of journey and cost of adapting buses Private sector engagement  Determine the level of interest from local bus operators,overcome health and safety issues and transport regulations Public sector  Devon County Council Transport Team

Eco-innovation in the Manufacturing of Watersports Equipment The Surfboard Model Form a collective of key shapers based in North Devon keen to develop concept of Eco surfboard and explore manufacturing of other equipment Understand core materials to be used in Eco board. Draw down funding for R&D for Eco surfboard manufacture. Determine best practice for surfboard manufacture, and potential market place Determine facts of sustainability of product. Develop environmental rating (A-E as per energy rating) for board manufacture Identify gaps and opportunities in the market Work with Universities Research Departments and other European Partners on the Atlantic Coast Develop skills, training and employment opportunities in North Devon

... North Devon Marketing and Promotion Plan A strategy in working progress...

Aims and Objectives All promotional work to project the message of the quality and depth of the North Devon offering To draw in new visitors, but to also to target local residents to enrich their experience and participation in watersports To generate an online and local buzz about the vibrancy of the N Devon watersports scene

Research required To identify best customer segments to target To identify best geographic areas to target To identify best product offering for joint marketing –eg luxury accommodation and dining, younger scene accommodation and entertainment, schools/groups offering etc Identify best way to interact on You tube, facebook, twitter etc Identify the right sites and media to advertise

Networking, Partnership and Events Promotion of the North Devon product at other sector events in the South West Through festivals and events in North Devon Promoting North Devon and the Wider NEA2 project trough National, Regional, local agencies, organisations and other projects websites

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