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6 ways your business can get involved with the Soapbox Derby

July 30, 2026

One of Barrow's biggest events returns on Saturday 15th August, as daring teams race down the Soapbox track in a bid to be the fastest and claim this year's trophy! With thousands of spectators lining the track and filling the town centre, we've rounded up 6 things your business can do to make the most of the crowds.

1. Advertise your business on the big screen


With thousands of people flocking to the town centre to watch the race, there's never been a better time to get new eyes on your business. Screen adverts are bold, impactful, and hard to miss, giving you the perfect opportunity to attract new customers during one of the busiest days of the year.

With prices starting from £100, contact the Barrow BID team to book yours and take advantage of the thousands of visitors to the town centre.

2. Drive customers to your business with exclusive offers or products tailored to the event


Visitors to the town centre are always looking to bag a bargain, so why not tailor your offer to the day and give them a reason to shop with you? From meal deals to exclusive menu items, shoppers will be looking to make the most of their day out. By giving them a reason to come through the door by offering great value, you'll gain customers who will be keen to return.

Purdy's Bakehouse often themes their menu to event days, giving customers a new reason to shop with them.

3. Create a window display that customers can't miss


Creating a window display themed to the event signals to shoppers that you are part of the day, as well as giving them something unique to look at. Incorporating your products into a display especially for the Soapbox Derby gets eyes on your business, while giving customers a reason to check out your business on the day.

4. Give potential customers a reason to visit with free activities


Visitors to the event are always looking for things to do, especially to entertain children during the Summer holidays! By offering something simple like a free activity sheet, you are giving potential customers a reason to visit your business. Low cost but effective, visitors will remember the positive experience they had at your business, giving them a reason to return after the event.

5. Think outside the box!


What sets you apart from your competitors? Give customers a reason to choose you on the day over another similar business.

Carriola Deli ran a raffle for the Festival of Transport, where every customer received a raffle ticket to be entered to win an event themed prize. Customers not only enjoyed a delicious lunch, but had the opportunity to win something just by grabbing lunch there.

6. Support one of this year's teams


Who do you want to win this year's Soapbox Derby? Our teams braving the obstacle filled track need your support, by backing one of this year's teams you'll show visitors to the event our famous Barrovian community spirit!

Check out who is competing this year in our event programme, and back your winner.

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