Like it or loathe it, you can't dispute the Daily Mail's success as a money-making venture.
Indeed, all those who suggest that the newspaper business is dead should reconsider when they scan the business's new figures.
The Mail is part of a media group, incidentally, which includes Welsh titles such as the South Wales Evening Post, Llanelli Star and Carmarthen Journal.
Effective Communication MD Alastair Milburn pinged me a story link today which revealed that the Daily Mail & General Trust (DMGT) had reported a 23% leap in annual profits.
A key factor was a record performance at its Daily Mail and Metro newspapers. One of those freesheets is seen regularly by South Wales commuters.
DMGT's underlying earnings rose from £201m to £247m in the year to October 3 following a bounce in ad revenues and growth in the business publishing divisions.
DMGT's UK consumer businesses achieved a sharp improvement in profitability as a result of cost cuts and growth in national ad revenues. Major advertisers increasing their marketing spend.
Yes, DMGT's regional newspaper wing, Northcliffe Media, saw advertising turnover fall 7% since the end of the fiscal year, with a lower local authority spend a major factor - but group success shows that newspapers can still be tremendously robust vehicles for wealth generation.
Businesses: Ignore newspapers as a marketing tool at your peril.
Showing posts with label Cardiff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cardiff. Show all posts
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
DJs, bands, artists prepare for launch
Eight hours of innovative arts performance will take place as a Swansea cultural website is launched this weekend.
The free city centre festival on Saturday, from 3-11pm, will feature live music and DJs, theatre, comedy, spoken word and performance art.
It will mark the launch of not-for-profit resource Artawe (www.artawe.com). The South Wales Evening Post carried a strong page three story on it yesterday.
The venue is Tapestri, a new arts café bar in Alexandra Road’s former central police station now redeveloped by Grwp Gwalia as arts and culture complex Llys Glas.
Artawe looks to have put together a lively day with lots of activities planned. It will give visitors an exclusive chance to experience what Tapestri is all about prior to its own launch next month.
Compered by DJ Stu Vox, the Artawe launch will allow visitors to meet artists and performers. Attractions include:
Big Draw Led by professional artist and printmaker Rosie Scribbler, this will see artists drawing to music. Rosie is a member of Swansea Print Workshop and has been involved in community art projects.
The Crunch Spoken word, poetry, prose and rants from Swansea’s twice-monthly evening at Mozarts.
Fernando Rey Band specialising in alternative pop/alternative country, adopting a mixture of great songs combined with an experimental approach. Harmonies, thoughtful lyrics and shoegazer sensitivity in a classic two guitar, bass and drums package.
Joan Jones Performance artist who sings, narrates and plays instruments.
MAD Swansea Music Art Dance (MAD) is a community interest company (CIC) which supports the arts and live music by providing opportunities and resources for local bands, musicians and artists.
Miles Lloyd and Simon Emmanuel South Wales comedy brought to Artawe by Garage at Monkey Bar, Swansea.
New Yohawks and AfterGlow Alternative punk.
ShellShock A Swansea theatre company who create original experiences which aim to entertain, confuse and question. ShellShock have performed in Swansea and Cardiff, created theatrical street games as far away as London and were invited to perform at the Bristol Old Vic and the Edinburgh Festival. ShellShock is run by Swansea performers Stephen Donnelly and Sian Stuttard.
Visual art Galleries invited include Elysium, The Shed and Oriel Bach.
David Williams Pianist.
Steve Woodman and John Ford Acoustic music.
Artawe’s website provides information on artists including a venue directory of Swansea galleries, music venues, theatres, arts cafes and bookshops.
Jonathan Powell, director of Artawe and the city centre Elysium Gallery, believes that Artawe is a vital resource for all creative people and organisations based in and working in Swansea.
The free city centre festival on Saturday, from 3-11pm, will feature live music and DJs, theatre, comedy, spoken word and performance art.
It will mark the launch of not-for-profit resource Artawe (www.artawe.com). The South Wales Evening Post carried a strong page three story on it yesterday.
The venue is Tapestri, a new arts café bar in Alexandra Road’s former central police station now redeveloped by Grwp Gwalia as arts and culture complex Llys Glas.
Artawe looks to have put together a lively day with lots of activities planned. It will give visitors an exclusive chance to experience what Tapestri is all about prior to its own launch next month.
Compered by DJ Stu Vox, the Artawe launch will allow visitors to meet artists and performers. Attractions include:
Big Draw Led by professional artist and printmaker Rosie Scribbler, this will see artists drawing to music. Rosie is a member of Swansea Print Workshop and has been involved in community art projects.
The Crunch Spoken word, poetry, prose and rants from Swansea’s twice-monthly evening at Mozarts.
Fernando Rey Band specialising in alternative pop/alternative country, adopting a mixture of great songs combined with an experimental approach. Harmonies, thoughtful lyrics and shoegazer sensitivity in a classic two guitar, bass and drums package.
Joan Jones Performance artist who sings, narrates and plays instruments.
MAD Swansea Music Art Dance (MAD) is a community interest company (CIC) which supports the arts and live music by providing opportunities and resources for local bands, musicians and artists.
Miles Lloyd and Simon Emmanuel South Wales comedy brought to Artawe by Garage at Monkey Bar, Swansea.
New Yohawks and AfterGlow Alternative punk.
ShellShock A Swansea theatre company who create original experiences which aim to entertain, confuse and question. ShellShock have performed in Swansea and Cardiff, created theatrical street games as far away as London and were invited to perform at the Bristol Old Vic and the Edinburgh Festival. ShellShock is run by Swansea performers Stephen Donnelly and Sian Stuttard.
Visual art Galleries invited include Elysium, The Shed and Oriel Bach.
David Williams Pianist.
Steve Woodman and John Ford Acoustic music.
Artawe’s website provides information on artists including a venue directory of Swansea galleries, music venues, theatres, arts cafes and bookshops.
Jonathan Powell, director of Artawe and the city centre Elysium Gallery, believes that Artawe is a vital resource for all creative people and organisations based in and working in Swansea.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Hyperlocal website wins new sponsor
Jonathan Williams, one of the key figures behind website www.llanellitown.com reports an innovative Christmas venture.
The news and information portal has won sponsorship from Llanelli accountants Tax Assist – www.taxassist.co.uk/accountants/llanelli/.
And this has helped the social enterprise-driven site offer web users the chance to send a festive email greetings card.
To me it looks like a handy way of merging business, sponsorship, fun and user-engagement.
It’s dead simple – give it a try! The promo panel is on the right of the Llanelli Town home page.
The news and information portal has won sponsorship from Llanelli accountants Tax Assist – www.taxassist.co.uk/accountants/llanelli/.
And this has helped the social enterprise-driven site offer web users the chance to send a festive email greetings card.
To me it looks like a handy way of merging business, sponsorship, fun and user-engagement.
It’s dead simple – give it a try! The promo panel is on the right of the Llanelli Town home page.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
PR-savvy Danny back in print
Danny Illingworth is using all his PR nous to lure punters to his Sunday carveries.
The big South African has a great reputation in culinary circles – and now he’s becoming a key element in the marketing activity at the Village Hotel, Swansea.
His appearance in the autumn edition of Community Times Mumbles saw carvery customers rocket.
And he’s back in the forthcoming edition, due to circulate door-to-door around Mumbles in the next couple of weeks.
His latest PR technique – aided by Effective Communication – is two pronged.
One, he will be featured in the little glossy mag giving recipe tips. Two, he will be offering a competition prize – win a Sunday carvery for four at the Village.
The activity will be back up by a full-page advertisement for Sunday lunches at the rather splendid SA1 venue.
Well done, Danny, and keep up the good work … in AND out of the kitchen.
The big South African has a great reputation in culinary circles – and now he’s becoming a key element in the marketing activity at the Village Hotel, Swansea.
His appearance in the autumn edition of Community Times Mumbles saw carvery customers rocket.
And he’s back in the forthcoming edition, due to circulate door-to-door around Mumbles in the next couple of weeks.
His latest PR technique – aided by Effective Communication – is two pronged.
One, he will be featured in the little glossy mag giving recipe tips. Two, he will be offering a competition prize – win a Sunday carvery for four at the Village.
The activity will be back up by a full-page advertisement for Sunday lunches at the rather splendid SA1 venue.
Well done, Danny, and keep up the good work … in AND out of the kitchen.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Arts hub boost for online Swansea
Arts folk across Swansea should welcome the city's latest web platform.
Artawe is a not-for-profit web resource that aims to pull together all areas of the local culture scene.
It looks good, feels good and I urge you to use it for both promotional and research purposes.
Creative types can flag up their offerings - just check out artist Tom Goddard's page and the preview for a Helen Watson gig this Friday at The Chattery.
Those looking for a bit of fun can plan their days and nights ahead - for a little New Years Eve fun check out this Brunswick event.
The official Artawe launch comes this Saturday, by the way, when new arts cafe Tapestri, in Alexandra Road's former central police station, hosts a free arts festival.
Artawe is a not-for-profit web resource that aims to pull together all areas of the local culture scene.
It looks good, feels good and I urge you to use it for both promotional and research purposes.
Creative types can flag up their offerings - just check out artist Tom Goddard's page and the preview for a Helen Watson gig this Friday at The Chattery.
Those looking for a bit of fun can plan their days and nights ahead - for a little New Years Eve fun check out this Brunswick event.
The official Artawe launch comes this Saturday, by the way, when new arts cafe Tapestri, in Alexandra Road's former central police station, hosts a free arts festival.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
South Wales tour so good for PR
The fine art of PR is being beautifully employed by the Institute of Directors in Wales today.
IoD director-general Miles Templeman is here all day for the Wales launch of a fabulous new scheme to promote social entrepreneurship.
And in the name of spreading the word he has a full-on schedule talking to members, journalists and associates across in Swansea and outside Cardiff.
It'll be a busy day but Miles has ensured that it's well planned - and he'll have strong support from everyone ranging from First Minister Carwyn Jones to IoD Wales director Robert Lloyd Griffiths.
Journalists due to interview him include South Wales Evening Post business correspondent Rupert Hall and Media Wales writer Robert Llewellyn Jones.
He has two meetings tabled before a 7.30am business breakfast at Swansea's Marriott Hotel, mid-morning meetings down the M4 at The Vale Hotel and then the Wales launch of the social entrepreneur scheme involving the IoD, Google and UnLtd.
It's a busy day for a busy fella - but time and effort invested in this way will bring much positive publicity for the IoD.
Job done!
IoD director-general Miles Templeman is here all day for the Wales launch of a fabulous new scheme to promote social entrepreneurship.
And in the name of spreading the word he has a full-on schedule talking to members, journalists and associates across in Swansea and outside Cardiff.
It'll be a busy day but Miles has ensured that it's well planned - and he'll have strong support from everyone ranging from First Minister Carwyn Jones to IoD Wales director Robert Lloyd Griffiths.
Journalists due to interview him include South Wales Evening Post business correspondent Rupert Hall and Media Wales writer Robert Llewellyn Jones.
He has two meetings tabled before a 7.30am business breakfast at Swansea's Marriott Hotel, mid-morning meetings down the M4 at The Vale Hotel and then the Wales launch of the social entrepreneur scheme involving the IoD, Google and UnLtd.
It's a busy day for a busy fella - but time and effort invested in this way will bring much positive publicity for the IoD.
Job done!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Facebook fear for Welsh marriages
Matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners regularly use online platforms platforms such as Facebook to gather evidence in divorce cases.
Rash words can be costly
Millions of us use online phenomenon Facebook every day. To many it’s an addictive attraction of modern life; fun for friendship, brilliant for business. However, it should be handled with care. Here, solicitor Sara Plant, of Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, reveals how social media content is being used increasingly often in divorce proceedings across Wales.
The Social Network has been an astonishingly successful film since its release last month.
It tells the amazing true story of how internet social networking website Facebook came to be - and how it resulted in high-profile lawsuits.
The drama is built brilliantly on a wholly modern phenomenon, thoroughbred entrepreneurial spirit and the relationship changes that take place in an adrenaline-fuelled cocktail of friendship, ambition and global business.
Pals
Its stars include Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield as American college pals Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin, and Justin Timberlake as online music pioneer Sean Parker.
The jaw-dropping moments include a police raid which finds Parker arrested for cocaine possession whilst celebrating Facebook's millionth member.
Back in the here and now, however, Facebook and other social media sites are the subject of an increasing number of legal proceedings of a much different nature.
These are the cases that involve thousands of ordinary people from a much less rarefied background to that of multi-millionaire Zuckerberg.
They are the divorce proceedings happening in every community where Evening Post readers live.
It’ll come as a shock to many to learn that all our matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners habitually use social media sites as they collect evidence on behalf of clients.
Thought
Why? Well, first, there’s the fact that many individuals simply don’t apply the whole thought process before they upload.
Hence, Facebook postings reveal wives being a little too open about their behaviour and husbands lying about their whereabouts. Photographs tie you down to a time and place. There’s little point trying to convince a court that you were somewhere else doing something far more innocent.
A recent court statement from a wife allegedly abused and harassed by her ex-husband may be: “I was devastated and couldn’t face anyone.” Yet we then produce Facebook photos showing her out laughing and joking at parties shortly after the split and during the alleged period of torment.
Social media also finds individuals bragging about business success or giving financial details that they choose not to deliver in the divorce court. Once it’s in black and white on a public computer screen it’s difficult to hide it from a solicitor.
Feeling
Compromising photos are posted – having a cuddle at an office party, for instance. These can trigger bad feeling in marriages and ultimately, separation.
Now, I do hope that I’ve not painted legal firms as the pantomime baddies here. That, of course, is far from the case. Most social media information is public - that’s the nature of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and so on; it’s what makes them so addictive and popular.
It’s within everybody’s rights to access this information so lawyers are only doing what any member of the public can do.
And don’t think it’s just divorce cases that are being affected by Facebook. Employment law is another big area, as are contact and residence disputes. We are also being asked to advise more and more on defamation following highly contentious postings.
Damning
As long as Facebook users continue to inform “friends” about personal issues and give frank personal details, lawyers will continue to look there for damning evidence.
Of course, legal proceedings should be avoided where possible; they can be expensive and traumatic.
So here’s what I suggest when it comes to using social media:
Partner Sara Plant got together with the South Wales Evening Post to explain how this modern legal phenomenon has downsides as well as all the ups.
Here's the full draft of her feature.
Rash words can be costly
Millions of us use online phenomenon Facebook every day. To many it’s an addictive attraction of modern life; fun for friendship, brilliant for business. However, it should be handled with care. Here, solicitor Sara Plant, of Swansea law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, reveals how social media content is being used increasingly often in divorce proceedings across Wales.
The Social Network has been an astonishingly successful film since its release last month.
It tells the amazing true story of how internet social networking website Facebook came to be - and how it resulted in high-profile lawsuits.
The drama is built brilliantly on a wholly modern phenomenon, thoroughbred entrepreneurial spirit and the relationship changes that take place in an adrenaline-fuelled cocktail of friendship, ambition and global business.
Pals
Its stars include Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield as American college pals Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin, and Justin Timberlake as online music pioneer Sean Parker.
The jaw-dropping moments include a police raid which finds Parker arrested for cocaine possession whilst celebrating Facebook's millionth member.
Back in the here and now, however, Facebook and other social media sites are the subject of an increasing number of legal proceedings of a much different nature.
These are the cases that involve thousands of ordinary people from a much less rarefied background to that of multi-millionaire Zuckerberg.
They are the divorce proceedings happening in every community where Evening Post readers live.
It’ll come as a shock to many to learn that all our matrimonial lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners habitually use social media sites as they collect evidence on behalf of clients.
Thought
Why? Well, first, there’s the fact that many individuals simply don’t apply the whole thought process before they upload.
Hence, Facebook postings reveal wives being a little too open about their behaviour and husbands lying about their whereabouts. Photographs tie you down to a time and place. There’s little point trying to convince a court that you were somewhere else doing something far more innocent.
A recent court statement from a wife allegedly abused and harassed by her ex-husband may be: “I was devastated and couldn’t face anyone.” Yet we then produce Facebook photos showing her out laughing and joking at parties shortly after the split and during the alleged period of torment.
Social media also finds individuals bragging about business success or giving financial details that they choose not to deliver in the divorce court. Once it’s in black and white on a public computer screen it’s difficult to hide it from a solicitor.
Feeling
Compromising photos are posted – having a cuddle at an office party, for instance. These can trigger bad feeling in marriages and ultimately, separation.
Now, I do hope that I’ve not painted legal firms as the pantomime baddies here. That, of course, is far from the case. Most social media information is public - that’s the nature of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and so on; it’s what makes them so addictive and popular.
It’s within everybody’s rights to access this information so lawyers are only doing what any member of the public can do.
And don’t think it’s just divorce cases that are being affected by Facebook. Employment law is another big area, as are contact and residence disputes. We are also being asked to advise more and more on defamation following highly contentious postings.
Damning
As long as Facebook users continue to inform “friends” about personal issues and give frank personal details, lawyers will continue to look there for damning evidence.
Of course, legal proceedings should be avoided where possible; they can be expensive and traumatic.
So here’s what I suggest when it comes to using social media:
- Never be disrespectful of your spouse (or others)
- Don’t flaunt your extra-marital exploits
- However tempting it may be, don’t post those photos which could later be misconstrued
- Keep extreme matters to yourself – don’t brag about expensive new buys or incredibly glamorous holidays
- Use your common sense and think carefully before any posting. Assume that everything you put on Facebook can - and will - be used against you in court one day.
Friday, November 12, 2010
A marketing boost - from the PTA
It's always good to welcome an enterprising new avenue for Wales' PR and marketing needs.
So that's why Effective Communication today applauds the parent teacher association at Gower's Pennard Primary School.
The fund-raising body has gathered together its collective sales and publishing nous to plan a local business directory.
Good on 'em!
"Advertise your business locally for just £10," encourages their poster.
"Whether you’re a plumber, gardener, financial services advisor or make cakes in your spare time, we're compiling a list of businesses who wish to advertise their services locally in a full-colour A5 business and information directory."
The publication will be circulated to around 140 families of Pennard Primary School in the new year.
A full page ad is £30 and those interested should phone Ian Ambrose - 07702 832 552 by December 1.
Profits will go to PTA funds, helping to provide additional school resources.
So that's why Effective Communication today applauds the parent teacher association at Gower's Pennard Primary School.
The fund-raising body has gathered together its collective sales and publishing nous to plan a local business directory.
Good on 'em!
"Advertise your business locally for just £10," encourages their poster.
"Whether you’re a plumber, gardener, financial services advisor or make cakes in your spare time, we're compiling a list of businesses who wish to advertise their services locally in a full-colour A5 business and information directory."
The publication will be circulated to around 140 families of Pennard Primary School in the new year.
A full page ad is £30 and those interested should phone Ian Ambrose - 07702 832 552 by December 1.
Profits will go to PTA funds, helping to provide additional school resources.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Video blog: Cardiff move for Nigel
Publisher Nigel Dudley says it's crucial for businesses to be featured in hyperlocal magazines as part of their PR and marketing strategies.
The man behind Swansea Bay magazines such as Eye on Gorseinon, Neath Gnolledge and Valley View, he now plans a launch in Penarth.
In this brief video, he explains his views to Effective Communication's Andy Pearson.
The man behind Swansea Bay magazines such as Eye on Gorseinon, Neath Gnolledge and Valley View, he now plans a launch in Penarth.
In this brief video, he explains his views to Effective Communication's Andy Pearson.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Danny's tasty PR treat
Chef Danny Illingworth starts serving food to Christmas party guests in the next week or two.
You can safely predict that he and his expert staff at Swansea's Village Hotel won't wish to see a turkey on their own plate come December 25 - they'll be working rather a lot with that particular bird in the coming weeks.
It's good news for Village manager Andrew Petherick and his team that Danny has been chosen by Swansea Sound to give Christmas dinner tips to listeners.
In the four or five weeks leading up to the holiday, Danny will appear on a weekly basis on the Leighton Jones show (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm).
The two got together for the first time yesterday at Swansea Sound's Gowerton studios to run through a few ideas.
As the fella who brought them together on behalf of an Effective Communication PR push, I was fortunate to sit in on their meeting.
They've some goods things planned ... and the on-air relationship looks like it may even develop into the new year.
You can safely predict that he and his expert staff at Swansea's Village Hotel won't wish to see a turkey on their own plate come December 25 - they'll be working rather a lot with that particular bird in the coming weeks.
It's good news for Village manager Andrew Petherick and his team that Danny has been chosen by Swansea Sound to give Christmas dinner tips to listeners.
In the four or five weeks leading up to the holiday, Danny will appear on a weekly basis on the Leighton Jones show (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm).
The two got together for the first time yesterday at Swansea Sound's Gowerton studios to run through a few ideas.
As the fella who brought them together on behalf of an Effective Communication PR push, I was fortunate to sit in on their meeting.
They've some goods things planned ... and the on-air relationship looks like it may even develop into the new year.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Here come the Welsh media big-hitters
Alan Edmunds and Clive Jones are Welsh media professionals with much on their plates.
And this week both are due to talk to gatherings of business bosses in South Wales.
Tomorrow (Wednesday, October 6) Edmunds will leave his Media Wales HQ to address the IoD in Cardiff; on Friday Jones will tell Swansea Business Club about his high-profile roles in organisations such as S4C, GMTV and ITV.
Edmunds is expected to have much to say about the evolving roles of newspaper operations.
Flagship
His own flagship title, the Western Mail, has seen circulation decline markedly over the past decade in line with most regional papers. Yet his online user numbers continue to rise healthily.
He and his colleagues must tackle with the great problem of meeting customer demand in news delivery whilst maintaining a commercial powerbase through traditional advertising and new forms of revenue generation.
All you need do to understand his conundrum is observe the opposites of how the Guardian and News International are meeting the challenge.
The Guardian is offering all content as free online whilst building new incomes through channels such as its club-style readership scheme; Rupert Murdoch, meanwhile, is charging for much online material from titles such as The Times.
Grassroots
Throw in the recession, the forthcoming austerity measures and the growth in low-cost grassroots media and you begin to see further into reasons for why Edmunds may suffer sleepless nights.
On the other hand, of course, great events such as the Ryder Cup and developments such as devolution and the growth of Cardiff Bay illustrate how exciting it can be to be helming titles such as the South Wales Echo and Wales on Sunday.
Edmunds, publishing director of Media Wales, is due to talk to Wales-based members of the Institute of Directors at the Park House Club, Cardiff, from 5.30-7.15pm tomorrow.
Clive Jones approaches the media world with a different perspective. He's the ex-boss of GMTV, formerly Britain’s most popular breakfast TV station, and is the sole non-executive director of S4C.
Award
A fellow of the Royal Television Society, he holds the society's highest award and holds a CBE for services to broadcasting.
In a time of enormous change for commercial broadcasters, he has been chief executive of ITV News and Regions, managing director of the ITV Network, CEO of Carlton Television, managing director of Central Television, and managing director of the London News Network.
Swansea Business Club members meet him at the city’s Village Hotel on Friday and are likely to learn a lot about modern broadcasting.
To find out how you can attend the events, give me a call on 07890 953 402.
And this week both are due to talk to gatherings of business bosses in South Wales.
Tomorrow (Wednesday, October 6) Edmunds will leave his Media Wales HQ to address the IoD in Cardiff; on Friday Jones will tell Swansea Business Club about his high-profile roles in organisations such as S4C, GMTV and ITV.
Edmunds is expected to have much to say about the evolving roles of newspaper operations.
Flagship
His own flagship title, the Western Mail, has seen circulation decline markedly over the past decade in line with most regional papers. Yet his online user numbers continue to rise healthily.
He and his colleagues must tackle with the great problem of meeting customer demand in news delivery whilst maintaining a commercial powerbase through traditional advertising and new forms of revenue generation.
All you need do to understand his conundrum is observe the opposites of how the Guardian and News International are meeting the challenge.
The Guardian is offering all content as free online whilst building new incomes through channels such as its club-style readership scheme; Rupert Murdoch, meanwhile, is charging for much online material from titles such as The Times.
Grassroots
Throw in the recession, the forthcoming austerity measures and the growth in low-cost grassroots media and you begin to see further into reasons for why Edmunds may suffer sleepless nights.
On the other hand, of course, great events such as the Ryder Cup and developments such as devolution and the growth of Cardiff Bay illustrate how exciting it can be to be helming titles such as the South Wales Echo and Wales on Sunday.
Edmunds, publishing director of Media Wales, is due to talk to Wales-based members of the Institute of Directors at the Park House Club, Cardiff, from 5.30-7.15pm tomorrow.
Clive Jones approaches the media world with a different perspective. He's the ex-boss of GMTV, formerly Britain’s most popular breakfast TV station, and is the sole non-executive director of S4C.
Award
A fellow of the Royal Television Society, he holds the society's highest award and holds a CBE for services to broadcasting.
In a time of enormous change for commercial broadcasters, he has been chief executive of ITV News and Regions, managing director of the ITV Network, CEO of Carlton Television, managing director of Central Television, and managing director of the London News Network.
Swansea Business Club members meet him at the city’s Village Hotel on Friday and are likely to learn a lot about modern broadcasting.
To find out how you can attend the events, give me a call on 07890 953 402.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Video PR for Wales’ YouTube generation
If you didn't know it already, the future of PR across Wales is multi-media.
Public relations practitioners will continue to target traditional print and broadcast offerings to build reputations - but there's already much more besides.
Two days in the company of Nathalie McDermott, of On Road Media, reaffirmed this certainty.
Dedicated
One day was dedicated to podcasting - the art of delivering messages and starting conversations on the web through digital audio.
The other did the same for video blogging.
Both are important as businesses of all hues battle to drive traffic to their websites.
Important
I see the latter as most important such is the visual nature of modern life.
So video will now be integrated into my thinking on everything from networking events to media campaigns.
The opportunity came for a trial run on Saturday with a visit to South Gower RFC on behalf of Welsh law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, one of the club's sponsors.
Check out the release by clicking here and the video here. OK, so the video may not be Spielberg, but it's an important step in the evolution of my own services.
Hopefully too, an accompanying photo will be used soon in the South Wales Evening Post.
Public relations practitioners will continue to target traditional print and broadcast offerings to build reputations - but there's already much more besides.
Two days in the company of Nathalie McDermott, of On Road Media, reaffirmed this certainty.
Dedicated
One day was dedicated to podcasting - the art of delivering messages and starting conversations on the web through digital audio.
The other did the same for video blogging.
Both are important as businesses of all hues battle to drive traffic to their websites.
Important
I see the latter as most important such is the visual nature of modern life.
So video will now be integrated into my thinking on everything from networking events to media campaigns.
The opportunity came for a trial run on Saturday with a visit to South Gower RFC on behalf of Welsh law firm Peter Lynn and Partners, one of the club's sponsors.
Check out the release by clicking here and the video here. OK, so the video may not be Spielberg, but it's an important step in the evolution of my own services.
Hopefully too, an accompanying photo will be used soon in the South Wales Evening Post.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
PR boost for Welsh athletes
Welsh press photo of the month?
No contest.
Log on to the new edition of glossy mag Sporting Wales, flick to page 40 ... and enjoy the cheering sight of the Welsh Commonwealth Games team.
They’re pictured together in Cardiff’s magnificent new John Lewis store before jetting off for India.
Salute
So forget the difficulties with Delhi for a moment if you can and salute the fine achievement of all these red tracksuited sportspeople. They’ve won the right to represent Wales on the international circuit and deserve exposure such as this.
From a PR point of view it’s a lovely way of saluting the athletes and all who support them.
Well done Sporting Wales and good luck to the Wales team.
No contest.
Log on to the new edition of glossy mag Sporting Wales, flick to page 40 ... and enjoy the cheering sight of the Welsh Commonwealth Games team.
They’re pictured together in Cardiff’s magnificent new John Lewis store before jetting off for India.
Salute
So forget the difficulties with Delhi for a moment if you can and salute the fine achievement of all these red tracksuited sportspeople. They’ve won the right to represent Wales on the international circuit and deserve exposure such as this.
From a PR point of view it’s a lovely way of saluting the athletes and all who support them.
Well done Sporting Wales and good luck to the Wales team.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Henson gimmick is a Wales masterstroke
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.
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.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Swansea journalists to debate Welsh media future
A host of Swansea Bay-based journalists are expected in Cardiff this month for a get-together to discuss the future prospects for the principality's news and media industry.
The conference is called What Future for the Media in Wales?
It's being organised by journalists' union the NUJ and has a fascinating top table of speakers.
They include Cardiff Uni Professor of Journalism Studies Bob Franklin, Aberystwyth Uni media studies professor Tom O'Malley and Jeremy Dear, the NUJ's general secretary.
Speakers from all main political parties have been invited to debate their policies for the media in Wales.
The Banner Theatre Company has been asked to present their acclaimed half-hour satire Embedded with Bankers.
The conference comes against a background of great change in the Welsh media, due to the internet, recession and new technology.
Admission's free. It should be a thought-provoking gathering for all those interested in the media and it takes place from 1.30-5.30pm on Saturday, April 17, at the Chapter Arts Complex, Canton.
The NUJ blurb states: "At a time of the biggest upheaval in national and regional media for decades, this is an opportunity to discuss the challenges facing the media industry in Wales and, crucially, to map out a way forward, providing opportunities for innovation, protecting jobs and journalistic freedoms."
The conference is called What Future for the Media in Wales?
It's being organised by journalists' union the NUJ and has a fascinating top table of speakers.
They include Cardiff Uni Professor of Journalism Studies Bob Franklin, Aberystwyth Uni media studies professor Tom O'Malley and Jeremy Dear, the NUJ's general secretary.
Speakers from all main political parties have been invited to debate their policies for the media in Wales.
The Banner Theatre Company has been asked to present their acclaimed half-hour satire Embedded with Bankers.
The conference comes against a background of great change in the Welsh media, due to the internet, recession and new technology.
Admission's free. It should be a thought-provoking gathering for all those interested in the media and it takes place from 1.30-5.30pm on Saturday, April 17, at the Chapter Arts Complex, Canton.
The NUJ blurb states: "At a time of the biggest upheaval in national and regional media for decades, this is an opportunity to discuss the challenges facing the media industry in Wales and, crucially, to map out a way forward, providing opportunities for innovation, protecting jobs and journalistic freedoms."
April 8's Swansea Bay Media Highlights
...
For all those interested in & working in the Swansea Bay media
...
Print South Wales Evening Post Click
Editorial - Three strong pages of southwest Wales General Election coverage include: Hain: Labour set for tough fight, Putting safety first could be key for parties.
Opinion - Although Swansea has a need for more affordable housing, it'd be a shame if the former Woolworth store was taken over - as is possible - by social housing group Gwalia. It's retail we need there.
Commercial – Richard Burton lives! Music fans are being urged, through advertising, to see Cardiff International Arena's War of the Worlds in December - complete with11ft hologram of the Port Talbot actor.
...
Online South Wales Guardian Click
Editorial - Amman Valley goalkeeping legend Dai Davies has thrown his weight behind a campaign to bring the National Eisteddfod back to Ammanford in 2014. Click
Commercial – The Guardian’s Text Links give welcome online exposure to print ads, including Cross Hands’ Evolution Gym, auctioneers Peter Francis and pressure washer specialist PWS.
...
Broadcast BBC Radio Wales Click
Key local story - A planned £450m gas-fired power station at Baglan Bay could get the ok from Neath Port Talbot councillors today. Its construction by Scottish & Southern Energy would create more than 1,000 jobs.
You heard it here - Proposed legislation to raise tax on cider is likely to be dropped today as MPs and peers face tonight's pre-General Election new laws deadline.
...
Links Twitter | Website
...
For all those interested in & working in the Swansea Bay media
...
Print South Wales Evening Post Click
Editorial - Three strong pages of southwest Wales General Election coverage include: Hain: Labour set for tough fight, Putting safety first could be key for parties.
Opinion - Although Swansea has a need for more affordable housing, it'd be a shame if the former Woolworth store was taken over - as is possible - by social housing group Gwalia. It's retail we need there.
Commercial – Richard Burton lives! Music fans are being urged, through advertising, to see Cardiff International Arena's War of the Worlds in December - complete with11ft hologram of the Port Talbot actor.
...
Online South Wales Guardian Click
Editorial - Amman Valley goalkeeping legend Dai Davies has thrown his weight behind a campaign to bring the National Eisteddfod back to Ammanford in 2014. Click
Commercial – The Guardian’s Text Links give welcome online exposure to print ads, including Cross Hands’ Evolution Gym, auctioneers Peter Francis and pressure washer specialist PWS.
...
Broadcast BBC Radio Wales Click
Key local story - A planned £450m gas-fired power station at Baglan Bay could get the ok from Neath Port Talbot councillors today. Its construction by Scottish & Southern Energy would create more than 1,000 jobs.
You heard it here - Proposed legislation to raise tax on cider is likely to be dropped today as MPs and peers face tonight's pre-General Election new laws deadline.
...
Links Twitter | Website
...
Monday, March 15, 2010
Lenny's Swansea media spotlight shines on Priscilla
Alison Lenihan continues to build an entertaining portfolio of interviews on her Swansea community radio show.
The former South Wales Evening Post character flags up on her Facebook page that her next subject will be Phillip Arran aka Miss CC Swan.
The couple are united for Lenny's afternoon show on Radio Tircoed tomorrow (Tuesday, March 16) from 2pm.
The presenter reckons it'll be an "hilarious two hours" ... and who am I to doubt her?
Tune in on the web - http://www.radiotircoed.com/ - or, if you're in the M4 corridor between Hendy and Birchgrove, on the good old wireless, 106.5FM.
CC, incidentally, plans to play WOW, Cardiff, in cabaret this Sunday (March 21). More eyecatchingly, the character has been a West End hit in recent months, playing alongside Jason Donovan in the up-and-at-'em Priscilla Queen of the Desert.
The former South Wales Evening Post character flags up on her Facebook page that her next subject will be Phillip Arran aka Miss CC Swan.
The couple are united for Lenny's afternoon show on Radio Tircoed tomorrow (Tuesday, March 16) from 2pm.
The presenter reckons it'll be an "hilarious two hours" ... and who am I to doubt her?
Tune in on the web - http://www.radiotircoed.com/ - or, if you're in the M4 corridor between Hendy and Birchgrove, on the good old wireless, 106.5FM.
CC, incidentally, plans to play WOW, Cardiff, in cabaret this Sunday (March 21). More eyecatchingly, the character has been a West End hit in recent months, playing alongside Jason Donovan in the up-and-at-'em Priscilla Queen of the Desert.
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