Digital agency Xpand has been appointed by Girlguiding Leeds to develop and implement a digital marketing strategy in a bid to re-ignite its brand in the local area and recruit more volunteers and members.

The girls and young women’s charity engaged the Saltaire-based agency after recognising the need to evaluate and improve its digital footprint in order to bounce back in a post-lockdown world.

Taking a deep dive into the organisation, Xpand will review historic marketing activities, current digital trends, audience behaviours and the barriers which could prevent demand within the local area.

Using elements of its popular Solar 7 model, the digital agency will then develop a sound digital strategy, of which social media activity will be a key part.

Girlguiding Leeds is part of Girlguiding – the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK.

Comprising 1,400 volunteers in the Leeds region, they give girls and young women a space to be themselves, have fun, build friendships, gain valuable life skills, and make a positive difference to their lives and local communities.

Like millions across the globe the charity was forced to halt all activity when COVID-19 first hit and has struggled to combat the post lockdown lethargy that has impacted so many organisations.

Girlguiding Leeds chose to work with Xpand due to their understanding of these issues and the key requirements, as well as the breadth of capabilities on offer.

County Commissioner, Louise Flynn at Girlguiding Leeds said: “As an organisation we don’t often have the opportunity to step back and review all the great opportunities that we can offer to volunteers and young girls in Leeds. We are incredibly excited about working with Xpand who will help us formulate a strategy and structure that will enable us to increase our volunteer network.

“We anticipate a more technology focussed approach will enable us to engage with younger members, to ensure they are aware and can take advantage of all the exciting opportunities that Girlguiding Leeds has to offer.”

Founded in 2007, Xpand is a digital marketing agency based in Saltaire comprising a team of creative, friendly, results-focused professionals who believe in challenge for positive results.

Jag Panesar, Director at Xpand said: “To be working with a charity which has such a strong heritage across the UK is extremely rewarding. We immediately developed a strong rapport and understanding of what needs to be done to help Girlguiding Leeds pick up their volunteer numbers and sign ups from girls over the next 12 months.

“COVID-19 has had a huge impact on the charity, as it has on many businesses, and we’re really keen to help get it back up and running with a number of interesting ideas we have already formed.”