Whilst the debate rages over whether Britain and Europe are in single or double dip depression, one thing is certain: businesses in general and builders in particular are facing very uncertain times.

With banks lending less and the prospect of even tougher austerity measures on the horizon, confidence is at an all time low affecting economic growth and investment.

But is it really that bad in the building trade? One company that doesn’t share the gloom has thrived through good times and bad by helping the building industry secure new business for the past 23 years. Active Planning Leads realised very early on that by concentrating on potential customers who already have the funds but are yet to start their project, the long and time consuming process of prospecting could be dramatically reduced and results substantially improved.

As Managing Director Ian McLean says: "The heart of our system is unique but very simple. We gather extensive data directly from planning offices around the country and, as soon as any new planning application is made, generate detailed information which is extremely valuable to our clients. With literally thousands of applications being made every week ranging from simple installations to complete housing and large mixed developments, there is work enough for just about any building related trade."


The comprehensive planning data is collected and updated daily and published every two weeks. Of course, just handing over a huge list of planning applications would challenge any company but Active Planning Leads bespoke software uses selective processing so that a customer can choose a certain type of work in a given area and receive only relevant information - information that's up to date and a gold mine for anyone looking for building work.

Although a planning application may be made for an extension or refurbishment, ultimately the build may require the services of tradesmen, material suppliers, ground workers, bricklayers, plumbers, carpenters and electricians. But it doesn’t stop there! Roofing, carpets, flooring, bathroom and kitchen installations will be needed as well as painting and decorating, windows, drives and paths and even a garage or conservatory.

"We make the whole process as simple as possible for our clients," Ian explains. "Every two weeks we send them a spreadsheet or address labels so they can target our leads. All they need to do is send each address a suitable letter, mail merged to save time, and offer their services. The letter will reach targeted buyers who have already committed and have the funds. They're just waiting for their applications to be approved. To make things even easier, we can also supply a full mailing and letter writing service if required."

Because the letter is targeted and sent at exactly the right time, the returns are much higher. In fact, individual builders right up to large corporations have used Active Planning Leads as their most effective sales tool year after year.

Not only is the service suitable for every building trade or industry, it’s also cost effective, reliable and proven. Perhaps most importantly of all, it really does work in good times as well as bad.

For more information please contact Active Planning Leads. 08456 448814 or sales@planning-leads.info