Elaine Ward, Director of The Pilates Quarter, oversees a thriving Pilates studio which offers both private and group classes. Like many small businesses in the region, the studio faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting Elaine to seek support to enhance their marketing, operational efficiency, and growth strategy.
Initially, The Pilates Quarter grew organically, reflecting both the strong demand for Pilates and the expertise of Elaine and her team. However, this growth meant they had not needed to rely on marketing strategies like social media, leaving them with limited experience in digital promotion. It also meant their business systems had not been fully developed.
Recognising that organic growth alone had its limits, the team sought to expand their digital presence, enhance their online visibility, and implement more efficient systems to streamline daily operations.
Seeking the right support, they turned to the West of England Growth Hub, which provided expert guidance and training to strengthen their digital skills. This gave them the tools and knowledge to move forward with their growth plans.
Elaine enrolled in Tech for Growth, a fully funded programme offering expert workshops and targeted technology adoption business support. The programme helps small businesses improve their online presence, adopt new technology, and boost productivity and sales.
After a successful application, Elaine was paired with a dedicated business consultant who carried out a full business diagnostic assessment, identifying key areas for strategic investment. Following this, the advisor recommended branding sessions to refine The Pilates Quarter’s messaging. The team also took part in SEO consultations and social media workshops, gaining the skills needed to strengthen their online presence and improve marketing effectiveness.
The impact of Growth Hub's support was transformative. Over four years, The Pilates Quarter evolved from a small studio to a larger, more professional operation. They moved to a significantly larger premises, expanded their team from four to nine employees, and grew their client base from 150 to 420 weekly attendees.
Looking ahead, The Pilates Quarter aims to double their client numbers with the capacity of their new premises. Plans include hiring additional teachers, implementing a new booking system for efficiency gains, and potentially revamping their website for enhanced functionality. Elaine envisions further expansion, potentially opening new branches to meet growing demand.
Tech for Growth round two is now open! If, like The Pilates Quarter, you’re looking to adopt new technology or enhance your digital practices to increase productivity and sales, sign up today to see if you're eligible for support.