10 years of Fife Trusted Trader
Fife Trusted Trader was formally launched on 1 April 2011
It is still the only official trader scheme in Fife that is Council backed, supported by Police Scotland with all members fully vetted by Trading Standards.
This brings confidence to consumers and helps in the fight against doorstep crime and scams. It also helps support small business owners, making sure they have the correct paperwork, are using correct and appropriate business practices as well as offering advice when required.
But there is a vigorous vetting criteria for new applicants, with 21% of applications rejected by Trading Standards in 2020, and two members removed from the scheme for failing to abide by the schemes code of practice. But 96% of members chose to renew their membership in 2020, even though the country was in the midst of a pandemic, showing the value members place on the scheme.
Below is some feedback from some of the members that helped create the scheme back in 2011.
George McLean - Fife Windows & Doors Ltd
"Since joining the Fife Trusted Trader scheme 10 years ago, I can honestly say it has been of great benefit to our business. Feedback from customers who found our company through the Trusted Trader website tells us that they feel reassured by the fact that it is the only official Trading Standards vetted trader scheme in Fife and supported by Police Scotland. As a result of being a member, I’m certain this plays a big part attracting new customers who haven’t heard of us before. Over the last 10 years it has been good to see the Fife Trusted Trader scheme continue to grow in terms of attracting new traders and businesses to become members whilst also increasing the level of awareness to general public about the benefits of using a local Trusted Trader."
Graham Steedman - Premier Services (Fife) Ltd
“In 35 years of running a business, being part of Fife Trusted Traders has proved to be one of my best decisions. As well as receiving impartial and accurate advice, Fife Trusted Traders has allowed Premier Services (Fife) Ltd to profile alongside other reputable local businesses and receive genuine enquires for the services we can offer. Premier Services (Fife) Ltd would thoroughly recommend Fife Trusted Traders to established or new businesses who are looking for a way to tap into reliable assistance; promote and raise their own business working standards and deliver a ‘trusted’ service to customers in Fife.
Congratulations on the 10 year anniversary of the Fife Trusted Trader scheme and to its ongoing success."
Scott Wishart - J. W. Wishart Plumbing & Heating
"Being a member of Fife Trusted Traders has been very beneficial not only in terms of raising our profile but also increasing our customer base with the help of the reviews we receive."
Dennis Watson - Window World Scotland
"We have been members of Trusted Trader since it started as we feel it gives customers peace of mind that the approved companies, have been properly vetted and can be trusted to carry out a quality job."
The future
We are looking forward to the end of the Covid restrictions and letting our Trusted Traders respond to normal domestic work requests, continuing to provide the high quality service Fife residents have come to expect.
If you think Fife Trusted Trader could be a good fit for your business or would like to learn more, then fill in an expression of interest or apply online.
Some of our members are restricted as to what services they can offer under current lockdown restrictions, but please talk to them about any work or jobs you have planned so they can schedule you in. Search for a Fife Trusted Trader or call our Trusted Trader helpline on 0333 444 7016.