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OUTER HEBRIDES BUSINESS DIRECTORY A NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES 19 May 2008

The ability to locate a local business online should be simple, not a source of frustration. The new online Outer Hebrides business directory aims to address this and in doing so, help to promote local businesses.

The directory has been developed by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Highlands & Islands Enterprise with construction of the site undertaken by local company ReefNet

The Outer Hebrides Business Directory, with over 1,000 listings already, provides the most complete local online listing of businesses and organisations in the Outer Hebrides. The service is free and open to all local businesses and covers everything from Accountants to Youth Hostels. Visitors to the site can browse or use the powerful and intelligent search to find businesses by type, name or location.

Business owners can login to manage their own business listings, which can include images, descriptions and multiple contacts. The site is also fully bi-lingual with all non-user supplied content available in English and Gaelic.

Cllr Archie Campbell, Chair of the Comhairle’s Sustainable Communities Committee said “I welcome the Directory which is by far the most current and comprehensive single online source of local businesses in the Outer Hebrides. It will assist residents in finding local suppliers, as well as bringing new business into the islands”

Archie Macdonald, Highlands and Islands Enterprise Area Manager said  " With increasing numbers of businesses and private individuals having access to broadband, searching for information online is increasingly the first and quickest way to find a supplier or product you need.   This directory will help raise the profile of local businesses and should also help open up new commercial opportunities within the islands' market and with off-island businesses looking to source products or services in the area. "

It is envisaged that the Directory will be a useful promotional tool enabling businesses to identify and promote themselves both within the Outer Hebrides and beyond. Anyone wishing to be listed can register online at www.businesshebrides.co.uk, or for those without online capability, telephone 01851 707 317.

The site features comprise a webpage containing information on the business, including contact details, a map, a picture or graphic and a link to their website for additional information.

ReefNet have an excellent track record in producing carefully crafted Internet applications with great attention to detail which represent the best of current practice. ReefNet's team worked with the Comhairle and HIE to produce an application which is not only useful today, but which will be a valuable resource for years to come

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk

Ag Obair Còmhla Airson Nan Eilean - Working Together For The Western Isles