Most (90%) tradespeople have introduced new services due to covid-19, Yell Business research shows.
Some (41%) started taking online bookings, while 40% began doing online video consultations.
Meanwhile 36% started home delivery services, 22% online video tutorials, and 27% introduced contactless payment systems.
Claire Miles, chief executive of Yell, said: “The last six months have been incredibly tough for tradespeople but it’s heartening to see that the majority of the sector remains optimistic in the face of adversity.
“Our diverse local businesses are the cornerstones of our community, which is why it’s crucial that now, more than ever, Yell continues to champion small businesses and provide the digital tools and insights needed for them to thrive.
“Our research highlights not only the sheer adaptability of tradespeople but also their ability to find the right way to communicate change to their existing and potential customers.
“It’s clear that during these uncertain times, instant messaging services have been a real lifeline to businesses in the sector who have had to adapt and adjust their models quickly.
“Instant messaging, as we are aware from our own developments with Apple in this area, facilitates timely and conversational communication between businesses and consumers and as the findings show, many businesses will still be relying on these services to succeed post pandemic.”
