How can an alliance with the arts bring commercial advantage to businesses? 

In her report ‘Re-creating Communities’ prepared for the Arts & Business organisation, Phyllida Shaw lists some of the benefits for business that the process of regeneration includes: 

• the creation of opportunities for employment and training,
• an increase in the employability of local people, 
• the refurbishment and re-use of existing buildings,
• the construction of new ones,
• the provision of publicly accessible facilities,
• the creation of a safe and healthy environment,
• the strengthening of a sense of place and purpose.  

Other benefits to the business community have been highlighted in another Art & Business study, in their report ‘Adding Value & a Competitive Edge’ they advise that 82% of the sampled Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Town Centre Initiatives (TCIs) had made use of arts activities of some kind.  With retail businesses, the survey showed that:

Biggin Street, Dover

• 40% of those that used the arts reported a positive impact on visitor/customer satisfaction
• 36% experienced an increase in sales and footfall
• 31% reported an improvement to their profile, publicity and public relations 

Similar evaluations in Belgium and Austria produced equally positive results.  

Dover is about to embark on a huge regeneration project that is both exciting and very daunting.  There will be much disruption in the town before the benefits become visible and take effect – the arts can help in this transition period.  The arts provide a great communication tool, can help engagement with the local community, can provide temporary cosmetic improvements and can signpost future developments.  White Nave aims to provide a focal point for the arts in Dover.

Please use the links below to view details of the services we offer to businesses.

To find out how you can build an alliance with the arts in Kent and the EU or how White Nave can help your business please contact us