It’s a brilliant – and cost-effective – way for businesses to support each other while introducing their brands to a whole new client base.

Bring together a selection of like-minded businesses, organise a photoshoot at a single location and then use social media to spread the word to each other’s clients.

The latest example of such collaboration involved Poole Audi, Fox Tailoring, Allum & Sidaway, Spine Optics and LA Media.

Even the models – Ayoub Ettimari, Paul Kinvig and Shane Tyler Finlayson – provided their services for free.

The initiative was organised by Jen Ettimari, a Business Relationship Manager.

The location was Poole Audi’s showroom with photography by LA Media.

Jen, pictured left, said: “It was my pleasure to create and coordinate this collaborative opportunity to help my valued professional connections.

“In my experience trusted relationships are key.

“In these testing times the importance very much lies with ‘who you know’ as well as ‘what you know’.”

John Parrett, Owner of Fox Tailoring, said collaboration was part of his future “plan of action.”

He added: “2020 has been a year the majority of us would like to forget.

“2021 cannot come quick enough.

“Everybody has suffered.

“Weddings cancelled. Hospitality virtually non-existent. Education at a standstill and the mental stress has affected many people.

“My business was non-existent for three months. No business, no income.

“However, we are coming back fighting and are alive and kicking.

“Our plan of action is to work and collaborate with other brand name enterprises and work with one another.

“Our combined strength of working with other ‘allied ‘ companies we think will drive us all forward.”

John said that he had recently organised another photoshoot, this time with The Italian Villa.

“It was not just to promote our product and service but to promote theirs, as well

“We have already had interest and bookings.

“As soon as we are able to, we will organise more events to promote each other,” he added.

Dave Tindall, Group Marketing Manager for Ocean Automotive, which includes Poole Audi, said the dealership was delighted to host the collaborative event involving Fox Tailoring.

“There is a synergy between the high-level personal service both brands provide to customers and we were able to offer a safe location where this could be showcased,” he said.

Other products featured included the new range of Ducati sunglasses and spectacles from Ducati Motors.

Known as a world leader in motorcycle performance and technology, it has now lent its engineering expertise to eyewear, partnering with Mondottica.

Tyron Dawkins, Business Development Manager, Mondottica, said: “We were happy to collaborate with other like-minded businesses and look forward to further opportunities to support each other.”

A spokesperson for Allum & Sidaway said: “We love working with both local individuals and businesses.

“Creative collaborations are beneficial in a number of ways.

“You can make new local connections and reach new audiences.

“It’s always exciting to see different styling and pairings.”