Although the Welsh language is one of Wales’ official languages, it is only public sector organisations in Wales who are legally required to operate bilingually. The Welsh Language Measure 2011 introduced a set of Welsh Language Standards with which public bodies in Wales are required under law to comply. Failing to do so will result in action being taken against such organisations. Very briefly, the aim is to ensure that the Welsh language is not treated less favourably than the English language in Wales.
At Bla, we have the pleasure of working with a varied client base, having supported, and continue to support, a wide range of organisations from all sectors in Wales and beyond. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of private businesses turning to us for translation services, which is fantastic to see. It demonstrates that more private businesses are becoming aware of the benefits of operating bilingually in Wales.
So what are the benefits of bilingualism to businesses?
- Whatever service you have to offer or whatever product you’re selling, your client base will expand if you communicate with your audience in their own language as you will be able to rapidly forge a connection with them. By using two languages, you are reaching a wider audience which will result in higher sales
- If you’re on a mission to win tenders where there is an element of public money, one way of dramatically strengthening your bid will be to express that you are working with a professional translation company based in Wales (*cough* Bla Translation *cough*) who will assist you to satisfy your Welsh language obligations
- By adopting the Welsh language, you show cultural sensitivity. The public awareness of your brand will strengthen as you will be exposed to an enhanced client base
- In addition to this, you will boost the loyalty of your current client base, increasing client retention rates even further.
One of the private companies we have been working with for many years is Freshwater, a national communications agency head-quartered in South Wales with a further office in London. The client base that Freshwater has developed over the years is enviable and they also boast an exceptionally strong team of experts. Bla is privileged to have been Freshwater’s chosen translation providers since April 2017. During that time, we have developed a highly efficient and effective working relationship.
As a company who are adept at using translation services as part of their everyday work, they have seen first-hand the benefits of operating bilingually in Wales, even in the private sector.
Don’t just take our word for it:
Aled Edwards, a first-language Welsh speaker and Events Director at Freshwater, said:
“At Freshwater, we pride ourselves on providing the highest standard of service to our clients – whether in the public or private sector – and an integral part of that is being able to operate bilingually.
“We consider the Welsh language in everything that we do – from coming up with campaign concepts all the way through to the design and delivery of marketing and event assets.
“As a long-standing supplier to the Welsh Government and other public sector bodies in Wales, this is absolutely crucial. But we’re also seeing a demand for bilingual services by our private sector clients, too.
“It’s great to work with such a trusted partner as Bla, who supplies us with client-ready translation quickly and efficiently.”
Rather than perceiving the Welsh language as another obstacle you are required to swerve, why not think of it as an opportunity to unlock more business benefits?
We want to help you to do just that, so please reach out to us by dropping an email to business@bla-translation.co.uk for an informal and no-obligation discussion.
Thanks to Freshwater for their contribution to this blog.