Google and Royal Mail back marketing website for small businesses

Google and the Royal Mail have backed a website launched to help educate small businesses on how to effectively use marketing.

The Marketing Donut was set up by BHP Information Solutions, which already works with the government's Business Link service that helps advise small businesses.

It offers a range of practical resources, videos and tools on marketing, including access to 120 marketing, sales and PR experts that will respond to questions directly.

Rory McGwire, managing diretor of BHP Information Solutions, said that, usually, these kinds of services took a while to develop their potential because they needed to prove themselves before they gained industry support, leading to a "chicken and egg" situation.

In this case, the site is launching with a full range of services from the start because of the high level of interest.

"What we've got here is a fully hatched chicken," said McGuire. "And we'll continue to grow it. Now we'll go and get another 100 experts."

The website covers direct mail and online campaigns, as well as market research, events, PR and other marketing related activities.

James Elias, Google UK head of business marketing, said: "Given increased pressure to perform, businesses are really looking for a competitive edge.

"Marketing Donut is a valuable resource where they'll be able to compare different forms of marketing in one place, and get the advice and support they want. We're pleased to be involved."

Tim Rivett, head of small business for Royal Mail, said: "In the current economic climate, small businesses are looking at targeted and accountable ways of advertising their products and services.

"We are delighted to support the Marketing Donut and its ambition to help small businesses thrive through practical marketing advice and online tools, to deliver benefits to the bottom line."

The website is free to use, visit at www.marketingdonut.co.uk/