Businesses Encouraged to Get Involved in the Staffy Trail

"There are opportunities for businesses of all sizes, including micro businesses. It's about visibility and taking the opportunities to work together," says Zoe Wallis of The Little George, Eccleshall.

Zoe is encouraging businesses across Staffordshire, not just those in the visitor economy but in every sector, to get involved in this year’s Staffy Trail as part of Staffordshire Day.

“The 1st of May is Staffordshire Day, a day all about celebrating and showcasing Staffordshire culture, heritage, and attractions," she says.

"This year it’s extra special as 2026 marks the 10th anniversary and will see the launch of the much-anticipated Staffy Trail.  

"There are opportunities for businesses of all sizes, including micro businesses, to take part without the need for big advertising budgets and be part of a plan designed to bring more people into Staffordshire and into our businesses,” says Zoe.

"The Staffy Trail has been built with inclusivity at its core. Whether you’re a café, retailer, professional service, manufacturer, attraction, or independent start-up, there are a range of accessible options available — ensuring every business can be involved, regardless of budget."

“This is about visibility,” Zoe continues. “We have incredible businesses in this county. The Staffy Trail gives us a collective platform to shout about as many of them as possible — so residents and visitors alike know you’re here. It’s a chance to help more people discover what you offer.”

Options for Businesses

With tens of thousands of visitors expected to take part in the Staffy Trail, early expressions of interest are encouraged, as opportunities will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Below are five ways businesses can get involved:

1) £Budget of your choice – Donate a Reward via the App

Visitors who locate a Staffy sculpture will unlock rewards through the digital app. Businesses can donate 2-for-1 offers, discounts, or incentives to drive footfall — for example, “Spend £10 and receive a free coffee” or “2-for-1 entry." There is also the opportunity to donate a larger prize for participants who complete all trails and find all 10 Staffy sculptures.

2) £100 – Advertise on the Printed Map

The printed trail map, expected to be printed over 25,000 times, offers A6 full-colour advertising space for £100. This provides wide-reaching exposure at a highly accessible price point.

3) £100 – Feature on the Digital Trail App

As many visitors will use the digital app while exploring town centres and heritage sites, businesses can be listed directly on the trail for £100. This includes brand visibility and the opportunity to promote a specific offer to attract new customers.

4) £800 – Co-Sponsor a Staffy Sculpture

There will be 10 Staffy sculptures positioned at key locations from north to south of the county, including Stoke in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, and Tamworth, creating a connected, fun activity trail that encourages visitors to explore Staffordshire in its entirety across one weekend. The placement is deliberately designed to join up north and south, ensuring the whole county benefits and participates.

Businesses can collaborate, with up to five organisations jointly sponsoring one of these sculptures. This shared sponsorship model delivers strong brand visibility and association with a high-profile countywide initiative, without the cost of sole sponsorship. Partners do not need to source co-sponsors independently — this can be facilitated.

For those with larger marketing budgets, there is also the option to purchase and sponsor a Staffy sculpture outright, increasing the total number available for visitors to ‘spot’ on the trail. Several larger businesses and attractions have already chosen this route to maximise their exposure and involvement.

5) £0 – Attend Workshops and Masterclasses

A series of workshops and masterclasses will be available to help businesses maximise the benefits of Staffordshire Day and the Staffy Trail. These sessions, which are open to all businesses, will provide practical advice on turning increased visitor interest into lasting impact, and will include topics such as how to use social media to attract customers, and how to create manageable, sustainable growth strategies.

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Businesses Encouraged to Get Involved in the Staffy Trail - created 1st March 2026