GBW is delighted to be working with the Advertising Association (AA) on an initiative to help SMEs in the West Midlands build their brands and their business by stepping out of their comfort zone and trying multi-channel advertising. The AAccelerate for Growth pilot scheme will enable SMEs meeting the criteria to work with agencies to source the best media channels for their campaigns and as part of the pilot they will see their investment enhanced by preferential rates and media inventory assistance.
GBW Company Director and IPA City Head, Michelle Wright said: “We are working with a number of hand-picked agencies who are members of the Advertising Association, IPA and DMA in Scotland and in the West Midlands. This is an exciting opportunity for SMEs across the West Midlands to work with the industry’s best marketers at excellent rates for a one-off time only. The knowledge gained from our pilot will help us to build a case to the UK government about the benefits of a tax relief for SMEs to advertise more. We are focussed on demonstrating to SMEs the true potential of multi-channel advertising and are committed to investing our time and expertise to deliver outstanding campaigns with unprecedented results.”
The AA’s research shows that multi-channel advertising grows businesses and although spend is growing in the UK, just 18% of overall spend is with SMEs. Of the 43% of SMEs who do undertake advertising, over 80% use a single channel. Every £1 spent on advertising results in a £6 uplift in gross domestic product (GDP) and these results are even greater across the SME community – in some cases eight times as much!
Research by Credos revealed that the majority of UK SMEs inhibit potential growth by only advertising across a single channel. By implementing multi-channel advertising and combining online, print, broadcast or direct marketing, businesses can generate greater demand, increase awareness and grow. Advertising is a professional service and as necessary as an accountant or an IT provider.
SMEs who meet the criteria will be well-funded and have aspiring plans for the future, they’ll have a £5-£50 million turnover, more than 10 employees and will be over 3 years old. Find out more at www.aaccelerategrow.com.
Contact Michelle Wright to find out more at info@gough.co.uk.