Welsh expertise in marketing, promotion and PR has come a long way since John Toshack posed with Barry John and Gareth Edwards on the Cardiff Arms Park turf.
A black and white image of that early 70s rendezvous - with all three in loose-fitting cotton Wales rugby jerseys and Tosh clutching a brown leather oval ball - adorns a wall of Pontcanna's Cameo Club.
It was there for all to admire yesterday as Effective Communication colleagues met to discuss fabulous plans for a key area of our business.
I wonder if Gavin Henson's new promo shot for Wales' latest Under Armour skin will be in the bistros and cappuccino haunts of Cefneithin, Blaengwynfi and Tonyrefail in years to come?
Probably not - but it's everywhere now! A few puzzled sentences of reaction from past and present Wales internationals has ensured that.
Gimmick
Others have been a little more informed in their pronouncements: "It's a good sales gimmick."
And in Welsh rugby's professional era we should expect many more examples of such creative thinking, activity which encourages media-friendly mild outrage.
Those involved in top-flight Welsh rugby know the sport is a dog-eat-dog pressurised world of hirings, firings, hard-fought commercial deals, tight margins and underwhelming ticket sales.
The players know full well that promotional activity is key - if the Henson stunt does have a negative effect on the sensitivities of a few then more fool them.
Just contrast the number of fans at tonight's Ospreys-Treviso game with the number of people around the UK who know what Wales'new shirt looks like, who the sponsor is, who the manufacturer is and which rugby star's on Stricty Come Dancing.
No contest. Yet despite this being the Italian club's (slightly) historic first Magners League appearance on British or Irish soil what creative energy have the Welsh galacticos put into getting bums on seats at the Liberty Stadium today? Put up Scott Johnson and a few players at a Tuesday press conference by the looks of it.
It's 2010 not the days of It's a Knockout. Publicity images of three guys with a ball in front of an empty stand now do little to trigger merchandise sales and to raise profile.
The Henson stunt is a masterstroke. Well done to all concerned.
Showing posts with label Andy Pearson Publicity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andy Pearson Publicity. Show all posts
Friday, September 10, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Persimmon builds South Wales media hopes
Our friends at Real Radio have launched another of the big promotions they're so keen on.
It's another lively example of how commercial partners can benefit when they hop into bed with the media. Such publicity options are always worth considering - they're certainly a more discreet sell than traditional advertising.
In the case of the new Real Radio Renegade, the sponsor is Persimmon Homes.
The listener competition is being promoted as a hunt for the Renegade ... and a chance to win a share of £100,000.
Every weekday from 8-10am, noon-2pm and 4-6pm, the station is broadcasting clues to the Renegade's whereabouts. There are even photo clues such as today's - click.
The competition is a multi-media experience that sees Real build nicely on a good idea.
For Persimmon, it means plenty of exposure. In return, they're offering some special deals.
Offers include selected homes across South Wales from £142,000, including conservatory flooring and blinds, some wardrobes, kitchen appliances and legal fees.
It's another lively example of how commercial partners can benefit when they hop into bed with the media. Such publicity options are always worth considering - they're certainly a more discreet sell than traditional advertising.
In the case of the new Real Radio Renegade, the sponsor is Persimmon Homes.
The listener competition is being promoted as a hunt for the Renegade ... and a chance to win a share of £100,000.
Every weekday from 8-10am, noon-2pm and 4-6pm, the station is broadcasting clues to the Renegade's whereabouts. There are even photo clues such as today's - click.
The competition is a multi-media experience that sees Real build nicely on a good idea.
For Persimmon, it means plenty of exposure. In return, they're offering some special deals.
Offers include selected homes across South Wales from £142,000, including conservatory flooring and blinds, some wardrobes, kitchen appliances and legal fees.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Business show lures Swansea media folk ... and others!
Well done to Swansea radio blogger Mike Leahy for his efforts in staging the Swansea Business Show 2010.
It took place on Friday at the LC and brought out a few notable media individuals.
They included the South Wales Evening Post business reporter Rupe "The Scoop" Hall, editions of the new-look Carmarthenshire Life magazine and a dynamo from further east, Prabhjote Chada.
The latter is an interesting fella, new to many on the Swansea media circuit.
He seems to have more energy than the National Grid and more ideas than a Government think-tank.
In media terms, he's involved with community broadcaster Radio Cardiff. He broadcasts on the subjects to business and gadgets-made-simple ... and he's doing a good job by all accounts.
Prab's also launched Cardiff Business Online, a directory with a difference. Check out the funky logo right here.
An honourable mention, too, for others listed in the show's guidebook.
They all helped to stage a colourful and varied show. Well done on all your efforts ... and don't forget where to come if you need to publicise your enterprise further - or if you need writing or newsletter services of any description.
They included: AIMS Accountancy for Business, Aquatherm Plumbing and Heating, Atech Graphics, Barry Training Services, Beach Software, Biz Mobiles, BNI, BCS Media, Business Sense, Call Catchers, Celtic Wine, Chwarae Teg, Clickbridge, Costco, Colourbox, Compare Wales, CTS Engineering, Davies and Co accountants, Dragon Innovation, Dividend Training, Dylan Thomas Experience, Dynamic Rock, E-crime Wales, 4 Networking, the Federation of Small Businesses, Flexible Support for Small Business, Giles Insurance, Green Dragon Energy, Inspiration, IntroBiz, ISO in a Box, Jakson Lee, LEAD Wales, Life Photography, Mac Guru Wales, Noremac Hygiene, NFU Mutual Insurance, Photographs Of, Ramada Jarvis Hotel, SIFE Bright Futures, Star in a Jar, Stupid Tuesdays, Swansea Business College, Swansea College, Swansea University American Football team, Sue Preston Hypnotherapy, Taybarns, Teimlo, Total Building Controls, Trevor Lewis Signs, Utility Warehouse, Valley design, Veritas Language Solutions, The Steven Williams Practice, the Welsh Business Show, Wolfestone Translation and the Zaal restaurant.
It took place on Friday at the LC and brought out a few notable media individuals.
They included the South Wales Evening Post business reporter Rupe "The Scoop" Hall, editions of the new-look Carmarthenshire Life magazine and a dynamo from further east, Prabhjote Chada.
The latter is an interesting fella, new to many on the Swansea media circuit.
He seems to have more energy than the National Grid and more ideas than a Government think-tank.
In media terms, he's involved with community broadcaster Radio Cardiff. He broadcasts on the subjects to business and gadgets-made-simple ... and he's doing a good job by all accounts.
Prab's also launched Cardiff Business Online, a directory with a difference. Check out the funky logo right here.
An honourable mention, too, for others listed in the show's guidebook.
They all helped to stage a colourful and varied show. Well done on all your efforts ... and don't forget where to come if you need to publicise your enterprise further - or if you need writing or newsletter services of any description.
They included: AIMS Accountancy for Business, Aquatherm Plumbing and Heating, Atech Graphics, Barry Training Services, Beach Software, Biz Mobiles, BNI, BCS Media, Business Sense, Call Catchers, Celtic Wine, Chwarae Teg, Clickbridge, Costco, Colourbox, Compare Wales, CTS Engineering, Davies and Co accountants, Dragon Innovation, Dividend Training, Dylan Thomas Experience, Dynamic Rock, E-crime Wales, 4 Networking, the Federation of Small Businesses, Flexible Support for Small Business, Giles Insurance, Green Dragon Energy, Inspiration, IntroBiz, ISO in a Box, Jakson Lee, LEAD Wales, Life Photography, Mac Guru Wales, Noremac Hygiene, NFU Mutual Insurance, Photographs Of, Ramada Jarvis Hotel, SIFE Bright Futures, Star in a Jar, Stupid Tuesdays, Swansea Business College, Swansea College, Swansea University American Football team, Sue Preston Hypnotherapy, Taybarns, Teimlo, Total Building Controls, Trevor Lewis Signs, Utility Warehouse, Valley design, Veritas Language Solutions, The Steven Williams Practice, the Welsh Business Show, Wolfestone Translation and the Zaal restaurant.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Tutor Sara considers new Swansea media hook-up
Sara Robb, right, and her colleagues could be onto something at Swansea University.
A tutor in public and media relations, she chatted with guests at the refreshments desk as we gathered for last night's special lecture hosted by the School of Arts and Humanities.
Degree programmes cover print, broadcast, film and new media and include tuition by industry professionals.
Incidentally, the lecture was a little cracker. Click here to see how Media Master previewed it a couple of weeks ago.
Broadcasting professor Andrew Crisell chose as his subject the BBC and how it may evolve.
The corporation, he decided, had largely foregone its remit as a public service broadcaster. Only some elements of its radio output now supplied a credible platform for intellectual debate.
The new era of cable and satellite competition was a key factor, with the Beeb's TV output becoming too focused on sharply-edited popular entertainment.
He conjectured that this, indeed, could be the natural endgame for the visual medium.
It was a thought-provoking address and will have given the students present some good talking points for the Fulton House bars.
A tutor in public and media relations, she chatted with guests at the refreshments desk as we gathered for last night's special lecture hosted by the School of Arts and Humanities.
Teaching and research there explores the history, theory and practice of media, film, journalism and public relations.
Degree programmes cover print, broadcast, film and new media and include tuition by industry professionals.Sara was refreshingly interested in the four Swansea-based members of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists) who tucked into the pre-match olives, nuts and Mini Cheddars.
So it'd be a handy development for all concerned if union and uni got together for a few (initially) modest gatherings. Watch this space.Incidentally, the lecture was a little cracker. Click here to see how Media Master previewed it a couple of weeks ago.
Broadcasting professor Andrew Crisell chose as his subject the BBC and how it may evolve.
The corporation, he decided, had largely foregone its remit as a public service broadcaster. Only some elements of its radio output now supplied a credible platform for intellectual debate.
The new era of cable and satellite competition was a key factor, with the Beeb's TV output becoming too focused on sharply-edited popular entertainment.
He conjectured that this, indeed, could be the natural endgame for the visual medium.
It was a thought-provoking address and will have given the students present some good talking points for the Fulton House bars.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Greetings to a new Swansea Bay editor
Harry Mottram may not be a name too recognisable to many of us in this area - but such unfamiliarity shouldn't last long.
He's in charge of a magazine due to launch across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire this year.
It's called Primary Times and is already franchised to other areas of the UK. These include three titles of which Harry is already in charge - Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.
It hits an interesting niche market - that of primary schools. Harry's team aim to ensure that it carries material of interest to pupils, parents and teachers. Its positive outlook means it'll probably be welcomed by the Swansea Bay education sector. Harry's hope is that it'll be made available in primary schools and libraries across the region.
It has a projected print run of around 70,000 and is being run by an arm of the Northcliffe media empire, known hereabouts for its helming of the South Wales Evening Post, Llanelli Star and Carmarthen Journal, Swansea Life, Swansea Bay Business Life and Swansea Herald of Wales.
Flicking through a sample Avon edition that Harry brought down, it's clearly a confident publication that sees value in itself and its readership.
Nicely designed, it's got an editorial content of around 50%, including a strong listings section. The advertisers include some very decent attractions - Bristol's Blue Reef Aquarium, St John Ambulance, Bath Council, Bristol Zoo and the city's Old Vic Theatre.
There's a lot of paid-for promotion too for schools from the public and private sectors, a soccer school and the National Museum Cardiff.
Primary Times, under different proprietorship, tried to break the Swansea Bay market several years ago but was a tad unattractive in design and content terms. This time it's different and I predict success.
Launch date? My money's on autumn.
Those interested in advertising or aiming editorial at the new magazine should give me a call on 07758 745240.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Swansea Bay media - snapshot survey coming
Business operators from across Swansea Bay will be at Neath RFC on Tuesday (http://bit.ly/9KNVtz)... and I'll be asking them to complete a local media survey.
With the increasing fragmentation of the Swansea area's print, broadcast and online scene, it'll be interesting to see how folk feel.
I suspect there'll be a lot of confusion; there's a lot of media out there now with many, many ways of advertising and lots of barriers to editorial content.
However, let's ask the people who count first - the readers and advertisers.
Here's a taster of the questions I'll be asking:
Lunch at 1pm brings networking opportunities. Lots more chat after that, no doubt.
More details from Tourism Swansea Bay (http://www.tourismswanseabay.co.uk/) - 01792 403339 / 07854 464648.
With the increasing fragmentation of the Swansea area's print, broadcast and online scene, it'll be interesting to see how folk feel.
I suspect there'll be a lot of confusion; there's a lot of media out there now with many, many ways of advertising and lots of barriers to editorial content.
However, let's ask the people who count first - the readers and advertisers.
Here's a taster of the questions I'll be asking:
- What's the most effective Swansea Bay publicity vehicle for your enterprise?
- What are the biggest hurdles to getting a story about your enterprise into the local media?
- Why don’t you pay to advertise in the local media?
- Would you be happy to run a low-cost promotion in the local media?
Lunch at 1pm brings networking opportunities. Lots more chat after that, no doubt.
More details from Tourism Swansea Bay (http://www.tourismswanseabay.co.uk/) - 01792 403339 / 07854 464648.
Swansea Bay Media Master
...
For those interested in & working in the Swansea Bay
Andy Pearson Publicity The Swansea Bay media expert
...
Kirsty Grabham Paul Grabham jailed for life for murder of Swansea prostitute wife Kirsty – lots of coverage today, especially strong in the South Wales Evening Post. http://bit.ly/bO6vAK
...
Broadcast Real Radio http://www.realradiowales.co.uk/
Key local sport If you battle through the RBS 6 Nations coverage across the South Wales media you’ll discover there’s also a Swans game tomorrow – at home to Preston.
Publicity power Does Harry Potter actress Emma Watson need the exposure? Possibly not – she’s earning £20m a year … more than Hollywood icons Cameron Diaz and Angelina Jolie.
You heard it here Simon Cowell is moved by film footage of the disaster used in the video for the Hope for Haiti single. Hear & see Everybody Hurts here - http://bit.ly/cz8rCk
...
Online BBC Cymru Wales http://bit.ly/zWBi
Southwest Wales lead story Legalise heroin says council boss - the leader of a Carmarthenshire Council says current drugs policy is not working and all drugs should be legalized (see Llanelli Star, below). http://bit.ly/akPFeC
Publicity power Reporter Nick Parry meets a man who merits global publicity. Ted McKibbin bought a hut in 1957, opened his own Burry Port gym and is still going at 83! http://bit.ly/a2xRbg
Recession Baglan construction company Morrison is to shed staff due to a downturn in work. It’s part of the Galliford Try group. http://bit.ly/aWlVHy
...
Print Llanelli Star http://bit.ly/BGCX2
Lead story Carmarthenshire Council leader Meryl Gravell, upset at the rise in drugs-related deaths in Llanelli, has called for all drugs to be legalized.
Outreach work From Feb 10-16, the Star will be taking photos of entrants for its 2010 Baby & Toddler of the Year competition. Nice promotional tie-up for the St Elli Shopping Centre.
Ad power It’s only a small plug in the Going Out section, but where better to be at RBS 6 Nations time than in Neuadd Mynyddygarreg on Feb 12 enjoying a concert by folk hero Dafydd Iwan?
… and from further west A glorious century and a half of Aberystwyth’s Cambrian News can now be celebrated with “150 years” car stickers. There are monthly car-spotter prizes of £50. An innovative Carmarthen Journal promo has insurance people Old Oak using their name as the basis of a mock-pub ad, beer pumps an’ all. Haverfordwest’s Western Telegraph offers Mars and Asda a strong promotional opportunity – “Win £1,000 for your junior club!”
...
Community Radio Tircoed http://www.radiotircoed.com/
Lead story An investigation into mortuary services at Wales' largest hospital has been dropped by police.
Hope for Haiti It's the last day of the auction - check out www.radiotircoed.com - total so far from yesterday is £8,679.22.
Tircoed’s tunes in Radio Tircoed is to support Llanelli Battle of the Bands 2010. The winning band will get air play on the station for a month as well as being interviewed on a show.
...
Have a great day!
...
The links
Twitter www.twitter.com/andywordsmith
Website Coming soon
...
The guff
Make every penny count! Andy Pearson can guide your business through the media minefield. Consultancy, PR, editorial, advertising. Phone 07758 745 240. Email andy@andypearsonpublicity.co.uk
...
For those interested in & working in the Swansea Bay
Andy Pearson Publicity The Swansea Bay media expert
...
Kirsty Grabham Paul Grabham jailed for life for murder of Swansea prostitute wife Kirsty – lots of coverage today, especially strong in the South Wales Evening Post. http://bit.ly/bO6vAK
...
Broadcast Real Radio http://www.realradiowales.co.uk/
Key local sport If you battle through the RBS 6 Nations coverage across the South Wales media you’ll discover there’s also a Swans game tomorrow – at home to Preston.
Publicity power Does Harry Potter actress Emma Watson need the exposure? Possibly not – she’s earning £20m a year … more than Hollywood icons Cameron Diaz and Angelina Jolie.
You heard it here Simon Cowell is moved by film footage of the disaster used in the video for the Hope for Haiti single. Hear & see Everybody Hurts here - http://bit.ly/cz8rCk
...
Online BBC Cymru Wales http://bit.ly/zWBi
Southwest Wales lead story Legalise heroin says council boss - the leader of a Carmarthenshire Council says current drugs policy is not working and all drugs should be legalized (see Llanelli Star, below). http://bit.ly/akPFeC
Publicity power Reporter Nick Parry meets a man who merits global publicity. Ted McKibbin bought a hut in 1957, opened his own Burry Port gym and is still going at 83! http://bit.ly/a2xRbg
Recession Baglan construction company Morrison is to shed staff due to a downturn in work. It’s part of the Galliford Try group. http://bit.ly/aWlVHy
...
Print Llanelli Star http://bit.ly/BGCX2
Lead story Carmarthenshire Council leader Meryl Gravell, upset at the rise in drugs-related deaths in Llanelli, has called for all drugs to be legalized.
Outreach work From Feb 10-16, the Star will be taking photos of entrants for its 2010 Baby & Toddler of the Year competition. Nice promotional tie-up for the St Elli Shopping Centre.
Ad power It’s only a small plug in the Going Out section, but where better to be at RBS 6 Nations time than in Neuadd Mynyddygarreg on Feb 12 enjoying a concert by folk hero Dafydd Iwan?
… and from further west A glorious century and a half of Aberystwyth’s Cambrian News can now be celebrated with “150 years” car stickers. There are monthly car-spotter prizes of £50. An innovative Carmarthen Journal promo has insurance people Old Oak using their name as the basis of a mock-pub ad, beer pumps an’ all. Haverfordwest’s Western Telegraph offers Mars and Asda a strong promotional opportunity – “Win £1,000 for your junior club!”
...
Community Radio Tircoed http://www.radiotircoed.com/
Lead story An investigation into mortuary services at Wales' largest hospital has been dropped by police.
Hope for Haiti It's the last day of the auction - check out www.radiotircoed.com - total so far from yesterday is £8,679.22.
Tircoed’s tunes in Radio Tircoed is to support Llanelli Battle of the Bands 2010. The winning band will get air play on the station for a month as well as being interviewed on a show.
...
Have a great day!
...
The links
Twitter www.twitter.com/andywordsmith
Website Coming soon
...
The guff
Make every penny count! Andy Pearson can guide your business through the media minefield. Consultancy, PR, editorial, advertising. Phone 07758 745 240. Email andy@andypearsonpublicity.co.uk
...
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Highlights from today’s Swansea Bay media
...
PR success A story based on an Andy Pearson press release appears in the just-out February edition of Swansea Life magazine – Laverbread and Curry (Swansea Business Show, Zaal restaurant)
...
Print South Wales Evening Post
Lead story - Threat to 100 jobs – axe looming over teachers as Swansea Council budget falls.
Key opinion - Gordon Brown’s proportional representation referendum plan: “It’s a bit late now.”
Promo power - The first Gorseinon Food Festival is to take place on April 24. Tuck in, folks!
Don’t miss - RBS 6 Nations pull-out … or, if romance is more your thing, two pages of gift ideas for Valentine’s Day, including goods from Lush, Comet, HMV, Boots and Laura Ashley.
...
Broadcast Swansea Sound
Key local story - RBS 6 Nations: Wales will be able to select full-back Lee Byrne this weekend after his “16th man” ban was overturned. Expect a team announcement at around 1pm.
Publicity power - Llanelli’s Waterside Half Marathon is due on March 7 thanks to Human Being Active, Fusion gyms and Carmarthenshire Council. Register online via Swansea Sound - http://bit.ly/9wLnCq
You heard it here - Katie Price and Alex Reid have been married in a Vegas “quickie”. Magazine photo team in tow.
...
Online www.walesonline.co.uk
Recommended - The pothole road map of Wales … with an online form to submit pothole sightings direct to Media Wales – “If you can take a photo of the pothole that's even better!” Hit http://bit.ly/6Su8fR
Publicity power - Virtual Fair: An innovative retail advertising platform for west Wales stores, including Max Evans, Dreamtime Beds - http://bit.ly/ap1Gw7
Key story - An historic vote will be held on February 9 to request a referendum on new law-making powers for the National Assembly - http://bit.ly/deK6xL
...
PR success A story based on an Andy Pearson press release appears in the just-out February edition of Swansea Life magazine – Laverbread and Curry (Swansea Business Show, Zaal restaurant)
...
Print South Wales Evening Post
Lead story - Threat to 100 jobs – axe looming over teachers as Swansea Council budget falls.
Key opinion - Gordon Brown’s proportional representation referendum plan: “It’s a bit late now.”
Promo power - The first Gorseinon Food Festival is to take place on April 24. Tuck in, folks!
Don’t miss - RBS 6 Nations pull-out … or, if romance is more your thing, two pages of gift ideas for Valentine’s Day, including goods from Lush, Comet, HMV, Boots and Laura Ashley.
...
Broadcast Swansea Sound
Key local story - RBS 6 Nations: Wales will be able to select full-back Lee Byrne this weekend after his “16th man” ban was overturned. Expect a team announcement at around 1pm.
Publicity power - Llanelli’s Waterside Half Marathon is due on March 7 thanks to Human Being Active, Fusion gyms and Carmarthenshire Council. Register online via Swansea Sound - http://bit.ly/9wLnCq
You heard it here - Katie Price and Alex Reid have been married in a Vegas “quickie”. Magazine photo team in tow.
...
Online www.walesonline.co.uk
Recommended - The pothole road map of Wales … with an online form to submit pothole sightings direct to Media Wales – “If you can take a photo of the pothole that's even better!” Hit http://bit.ly/6Su8fR
Publicity power - Virtual Fair: An innovative retail advertising platform for west Wales stores, including Max Evans, Dreamtime Beds - http://bit.ly/ap1Gw7
Key story - An historic vote will be held on February 9 to request a referendum on new law-making powers for the National Assembly - http://bit.ly/deK6xL
...
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Scarlets offer Swansea Bay business big chance
Swansea Bay businesses wishing to hit the Llanelli market have a prime chance to do so over the next two or three months - especially if the enterprise has any hint of France.
With the Scarlets clinching a quarter-final place in European rugby union's Amlin Challenge Cup yesterday, it was today revealed that they'll play French outfit Toulon. The match will be in France on the (long) weekend of April 8-11.
So, if you're a French polisher based in or around Swansea, if you specialise in French food or if much of your wine stock is from the land of Ratatouille and Clouseau, make the connection with the Llanelli public by launching a few special offers.
Ads and editorials placed with Swansea Bay local media such as the Llanelli Star and http://www.llanellitown.com/ could pay dividends for modest outlay. If you need guidance, give me a shout on 07758 745 240.
I'd recommend avoiding the Toulon press - furniture polish is more easily available there, they're not too keen on food that's got a touch of the UK ... and their wine's considerably cheaper.
With the Scarlets clinching a quarter-final place in European rugby union's Amlin Challenge Cup yesterday, it was today revealed that they'll play French outfit Toulon. The match will be in France on the (long) weekend of April 8-11.
So, if you're a French polisher based in or around Swansea, if you specialise in French food or if much of your wine stock is from the land of Ratatouille and Clouseau, make the connection with the Llanelli public by launching a few special offers.
Ads and editorials placed with Swansea Bay local media such as the Llanelli Star and http://www.llanellitown.com/ could pay dividends for modest outlay. If you need guidance, give me a shout on 07758 745 240.
I'd recommend avoiding the Toulon press - furniture polish is more easily available there, they're not too keen on food that's got a touch of the UK ... and their wine's considerably cheaper.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Spirit can help strengthen Swansea Bay morale
The public face of Neath and Port Talbot has been scarred in recent years by high-profile fires to the divine Gwyn Hall and the important Aquadome.
The Gwyn's future looks exciting and the local council has a great chance to make it part of a thriving, traditional town centre.
The future of the sports complex is less clear because fire struck there so recently.
So it'll be fascinating to see how Neath Port Talbot Council's relatively new chief exec uses the first 2010 edition of quarterly door-to-door newspaper Community Spirit to strengthen morale and manage expectation.
Spirit is an interesting tabloid in that, unlike Swansea Council's The Leader, it's a partnership publication. Backers include South Wales Police, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Neath Port Talbot Local Health Board, the NPT Council for Voluntary Services, Environment Agency Wales, NPT College and NPT Council.
In the winter 2009 edition chief exec Steve Phillips expressed excitement about regeneration projects such as Baglan Energy Park, the Aberavon seafront, the Coed Darcy Urban Village and the proposed Jersey Marine university campus.
I advise him to use the next edition to reassure his public that the council will do all it can to replace - and improve upon - what they had at the Afan Lido.
In the meantime, take a look at a PDF of the latest edition by copy-&-pasting this link - http://bit.ly/5FPGih
The Gwyn's future looks exciting and the local council has a great chance to make it part of a thriving, traditional town centre.
The future of the sports complex is less clear because fire struck there so recently.
So it'll be fascinating to see how Neath Port Talbot Council's relatively new chief exec uses the first 2010 edition of quarterly door-to-door newspaper Community Spirit to strengthen morale and manage expectation.
Spirit is an interesting tabloid in that, unlike Swansea Council's The Leader, it's a partnership publication. Backers include South Wales Police, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Neath Port Talbot Local Health Board, the NPT Council for Voluntary Services, Environment Agency Wales, NPT College and NPT Council.
In the winter 2009 edition chief exec Steve Phillips expressed excitement about regeneration projects such as Baglan Energy Park, the Aberavon seafront, the Coed Darcy Urban Village and the proposed Jersey Marine university campus.
I advise him to use the next edition to reassure his public that the council will do all it can to replace - and improve upon - what they had at the Afan Lido.
In the meantime, take a look at a PDF of the latest edition by copy-&-pasting this link - http://bit.ly/5FPGih
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Swansea Bay's micro-media merits support
Down Llanelli way there's a spirited attempt being made to provide a community-based online news and information service.
http://www.llanellitown.com/ is a social enterprise founded by enthusiasts who aim to help in the regeneration and continuing development of the Llanelli district by promoting the area in any way they can.
Eunydd Thomas, Jason Lovell and Jonathan Williams say: "We aim to work with local government and agencies to achieve this."
The Llanelli News button flashes through to a busy Scarlets-heavy blog, the Local News tab clicks straight through to the Llanelli Star's http://www.thisiscarmarthenshire.co.uk/ and the What's On button takes the reader through to a nicely presented listings service which will grow with time and support.
Advertising in the Business Directory is £120 for national companies and an encouraging £60 for local businesses. Small local business is offered an ad platform of £1.14/week.
It's got a long way to go, http://www.llanellitown.com/, but pin it on your favourites bar - all these small guys merit support because its they who are rebuilding super-local information supplies across the UK.
http://www.llanellitown.com/ is a social enterprise founded by enthusiasts who aim to help in the regeneration and continuing development of the Llanelli district by promoting the area in any way they can.
Eunydd Thomas, Jason Lovell and Jonathan Williams say: "We aim to work with local government and agencies to achieve this."
The Llanelli News button flashes through to a busy Scarlets-heavy blog, the Local News tab clicks straight through to the Llanelli Star's http://www.thisiscarmarthenshire.co.uk/ and the What's On button takes the reader through to a nicely presented listings service which will grow with time and support.
Advertising in the Business Directory is £120 for national companies and an encouraging £60 for local businesses. Small local business is offered an ad platform of £1.14/week.
It's got a long way to go, http://www.llanellitown.com/, but pin it on your favourites bar - all these small guys merit support because its they who are rebuilding super-local information supplies across the UK.
Stock pic special from Swansea Bay Business Life
Look out for an attention-grabbing cover to the new Swansea Bay Business Life.
It may be a tad fanciful to have a road sign for Wind Street on the same pole as one for Wall Street but that's what editor Wyn Jenkins has had his graphics people knock up.
And, good on 'em, it works well with the main cover line: A Welsh Stock Exchange? It's a tidy way in which to trail a thought-provoking feature by Wyn which suggests that regional stock exchanges could bring great benefits to the local money-go-round.
Quoted in the piece are Swansea business folk Richard Croydon, of stockbrokers Brewin Dolphin, and John Evans, of Pritchard Stockbrokers.
It's certainly food for thought; could the Stock Exchange really go the way of local media and start heading back to its hyperlocal roots?
It may be a tad fanciful to have a road sign for Wind Street on the same pole as one for Wall Street but that's what editor Wyn Jenkins has had his graphics people knock up.
And, good on 'em, it works well with the main cover line: A Welsh Stock Exchange? It's a tidy way in which to trail a thought-provoking feature by Wyn which suggests that regional stock exchanges could bring great benefits to the local money-go-round.
Quoted in the piece are Swansea business folk Richard Croydon, of stockbrokers Brewin Dolphin, and John Evans, of Pritchard Stockbrokers.
It's certainly food for thought; could the Stock Exchange really go the way of local media and start heading back to its hyperlocal roots?
Swansea Bay media's snow flow lingers on
Parts of the Swansea Valley are still served doggedly by the South Wales Guardian under editor Mike Lewis.
Its circulation of around 7,000 means that it also reaches nooks and crannies of the Amman, Gwendraeth and Towy valleys that other newspapers don't.
It revels in its low-tech parochial feel and, with modest journalistic resources, features much content based on contributions from readers.
Its ads are also understated; this week's main front page ad - for Swansea Auctions - is text-only and previews a Neath sale of bankrupt goods ranging from kids' clothes to Avondale caravans.
Picture-wise, the lastest Guardian harks back unapologetically to this month's hefty snowfall. Its main weather-related images include those of a minibus that's slithered into a building, a highway maintenance van up to its wheel arches in the white stuff and a vehicle almost covered in snow.
The headline above the latter reads: "Land Rover found dead in a ditch."
Not a good week for motorists on the Guardian patch ... but a splendid time for those involved in any aspect of road safety to ram home their message through editorial pieces offered to the Guardian.
Those unsure of how to do so should give me a shout.
Happy motoring!
Its circulation of around 7,000 means that it also reaches nooks and crannies of the Amman, Gwendraeth and Towy valleys that other newspapers don't.
It revels in its low-tech parochial feel and, with modest journalistic resources, features much content based on contributions from readers.
Its ads are also understated; this week's main front page ad - for Swansea Auctions - is text-only and previews a Neath sale of bankrupt goods ranging from kids' clothes to Avondale caravans.
Picture-wise, the lastest Guardian harks back unapologetically to this month's hefty snowfall. Its main weather-related images include those of a minibus that's slithered into a building, a highway maintenance van up to its wheel arches in the white stuff and a vehicle almost covered in snow.
The headline above the latter reads: "Land Rover found dead in a ditch."
Not a good week for motorists on the Guardian patch ... but a splendid time for those involved in any aspect of road safety to ram home their message through editorial pieces offered to the Guardian.
Those unsure of how to do so should give me a shout.
Happy motoring!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Gower News is Swansea Bay media's new kid
New things are happening all the time at grassroots level on the Swansea Bay media landscape.
And it's nice to be able to welcome a refreshing-looking website - www.gowernews.co.uk.
This Tuesday, Andy Pearson Publicity is due to meet up with the fella behind it and we're looking forward to hearing about his vision.
The site's in its early stages but is already showing signs of ambition and an indication that it'll be useful to fellow businesses as the months and years pass.
www.gowernews.co.uk has sections for a lot that's handy to all who love the peninsula, including Beaches, Books and Maps, Camping, Castles, Caves,
Churches, Community, Nature Reserves, Tide Times, Walks, Water Sports, What's On and Woodlands.
Pay it a visit ... and contribute if you can.
And it's nice to be able to welcome a refreshing-looking website - www.gowernews.co.uk.
This Tuesday, Andy Pearson Publicity is due to meet up with the fella behind it and we're looking forward to hearing about his vision.
The site's in its early stages but is already showing signs of ambition and an indication that it'll be useful to fellow businesses as the months and years pass.
www.gowernews.co.uk has sections for a lot that's handy to all who love the peninsula, including Beaches, Books and Maps, Camping, Castles, Caves,
Churches, Community, Nature Reserves, Tide Times, Walks, Water Sports, What's On and Woodlands.
Pay it a visit ... and contribute if you can.
Swansea Bay Media Master launch
The Swansea Bay media master launches tomorrow (January 18). It's a forerunner to my rebranding exercise which'll see my business become Andy Pearson Publicity.
The Swansea Bay media master will take the form of a Monday-to-Friday 8.30am daily email. It'll flag up the highlights of the day's Swansea Bay media.
Targets are those who're interested in - and who work in - the local and regional print, broadcast and online media.
Businesses of all descriptions will be interested because it'll give a crucial overview of what's being covered, advertised and discussed in the ever-fragmenting media scene of Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot and Llanelli.
The Swansea Bay media master will take the form of a Monday-to-Friday 8.30am daily email. It'll flag up the highlights of the day's Swansea Bay media.
Targets are those who're interested in - and who work in - the local and regional print, broadcast and online media.
Businesses of all descriptions will be interested because it'll give a crucial overview of what's being covered, advertised and discussed in the ever-fragmenting media scene of Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot and Llanelli.
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