HAI Media Masterclass

In October this year Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) carried out an extensive survey of the media and communications preferences within the sector. An email questionnaire was sent to 880 recipients and 74 completed surveys were returned. This is probably the largest survey of this kind ever undertaken in the hardware merchanting and building materials industry. Both merchants and suppliers/manufacturers were surveyed. The research uncovered a number of key insights and some surprises. Thankfully, for HAI, The Hardware Journal is the most significant channel in which to communicate within the sector. Please see chart below.

Other findings highlight the most and least impactful social media channels. It also found significant mismatches between what merchants want and are using and what suppliers are providing. This mismatch means waste – a waste of time and resources on channels that are not relevant, and not performing. Communicating your message is crucial. In this environment where costs have risen, no one can afford to waste their marketing budget on channels that provide little impact and return.

HAI will present the full results of the survey. On the day there will be a Masterclass in media focused on how to optimise both B2B and B2C channels.

Date: Friday, 7th February, 2025
Location: Johntown Estate Hotel, Enfield, Co. Meath

Schedule:

About the Speakers:

Greg Fry

Greg Fry is an International Digital Marketing and AI consultant, trainer, and co-founder of a successful Digital Agency called Content Plan. Greg believes that to make Digital Marketing work for your business – you must develop a strategic approach and ensure that you keep the “human element” at the forefront of everything you do and say. If done well your Digital Marketing will help you stand out and not blend into the busy Digital landscape. Greg’s sessions are packed with passion and are high-energy affairs. You will not find a more engaging speaker in the Digital space.

Greg has worked with many top organisations including: Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices, Ulster Bank, Microsoft, Fáilte Ireland, BWG Foods, Abbott Labs, Symantec, and Irish Life. He has also lectured for top institutions including the Digital Marketing Institute, The UCD Professional Academy and the Digital Skills Academy.

Rebecca Markey

Rebecca is Chief Executive at IFP Media and has over 26 years’ experience in providing expertise in management, PR, marketing, campaign planning, event management, branding and media. After winning publishing company of the year, Rebecca led the launch of two new specialist divisions in IFP Media – Content Hub and Full House Events. Content Hub provides content creation and PR services to clients, while Full House Events provides award-winning event management services, from concept to completion.

Rebecca has extensive experience as publishing liaison with chief executives, directors general and senior directors at leading representative organisations and blue-chip companies including Alltech, Bord Bia, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Veterinary Ireland and the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). Rebecca has also planned a series of targeted campaigns with the National Dairy Council, SOLAS, AXA Ireland and RELIFE Ireland. Rebecca is chairperson of the Royal Dublin Society’s Committee of Enterprise and sits on the Advisory Council; is a mentor and coach for the FAI mentoring training programme, for female leaders; is chairperson of the Irish Youth Foundation’s Bloomsday event committee; and is a former chairperson of Magazines Ireland.

This Masterclass is free to all HAI members and will be held on the morning of Friday 7th February at Johnstown House Hotel in Enfield. Lunch with the board of HAI will also be provided. This is a must-attend for anyone with responsibility for marketing and advertising – whether you are a Hardware Store owner, a Builders Merchant, Supplier/Manufacturer or Corporate Partner. You need to be part of the conversation.