Where to find invaluable facts and figures

 

If its true that you need to do thorough research before you start up your business then its equally true that however well established your business you can always use more information

But whether you are new at this or an old hand soft toy wholesaler like us, where do you find the information you need at a price you can afford?

The first place to start is always your local library which will have dozens of industry reports and information on your local area

However if you are looking for more then the first place to start is the British Library in London http://www.bl.uk/bipc/ which holds more information than you can shake at stick at!

And if London is not accessible do you know that they have a search facility you can use?

This is an exceptional service which could provide you with the very specific information you need quickly and efficiently, and at very little cost!  for instance they can search their extensive databases to tell you all the names and addresses of specific business in your local area. Its definitely worth a look and their website is http://www.bl.uk/services/information/rsabout.html 

Just remember if a fact has been published in the UK the British Library will have it on file - thats an impressive database!

 

As ever the internet is an invaluable source of information. One useful website address is  http://adlab.msn.com/DPUI/DPUI.aspx which gives you a break down of the age and gender of people searching for any particular word or search phrase. So unusual gifts, for instance, is mostly typed in by women aged 35-49 years old,

And if you want to know the seasonality of your market try http://google.co.uk/trends for the peak times when people are searching for a particular item on the internet

 

Finally Business Link are always a friendly and accessible source of information

http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/