News and Thoughts
The future of business success
27 July 2010
Our CEO, Jim Prior, has recently penned a thought piece on how the future of business success is firmly rooted in the notion that organisations need to think, creatively, about how they can add value to their products and services. Business success is not to be achieved by cutting costs, but by enriching the experience.
The Independent newspaper has featured Jim's thoughts on their website today in the Business section.
Click here to read the article in full.
Jim's belief in the importance of creativity as a means to a more successful business future has been the basis for his involvement in the forthcoming TEDxNewSt event (for more details of TEDx events click here)
Jim has co-organised the day-long conference with Rory Sutherland from Ogilvy and Julian Treasure from The Sound Agency.
To register for a free place at the event click here.
Rising rebrand
13 July 2010
The Partners has supported the rebrand of one of the UK’s largest financial services companies with a bold new identity.
Phoenix Group is the UK’s largest consolidator of ‘closed’ life funds, representing the interests of 7.6 million policy holders and holding assets of around £69 billion. The group owns a number of individual assurance brands, as well as the Ignis asset management brand.
We were tasked with consulting on the rebrand for the organisation ahead of its official relaunch and London listing this month.
In a time when financial institutions are affected by low consumer trust, our concept was to build the brand around the core purpose of inspiring confidence in the future.
We wanted the identity to leverage the name Phoenix whilst avoiding the clichés often associated with the name Phoenix. The chosen design was a confident heavy base and a bright, rising arc, which together resemble the letter ‘P’. In short, the new identity is designed to be solid, warm and bold.
Top of their class
6 July 2010
This week Jessica Reynolds and Serena Wise collected the top D&AD student prize for their novel take on the (sponsor) Ikea homewares catalogue.
The designers have created an inspiring, and interactive, campaign which involves using a colour wheel of all Ikea's products to allow customers to pick and experiment with products with ease.
The winners have been given full-page credit in today's Metro, with comment from our Greg Quinton as D&AD education chairman.
Click here to see the Metro article, along with comments from Greg.
A valuable experience
21 June 2010
The challenge for brands these days is the endless pursuit of finding how to better engage with your audience, and many brands have tried many methods over the years.
Gideon Spanier has written an article in the Evening Standard today, exploring the rise in use of experiential marketing for brands.
As the time of year, and weather, is perfect for campaigns like this he's been getting in touch with some brand and marketing experts to gather their opinions on how well, or not, experiential marketing works.
He contacted Jim Prior for his thoughts. Click here to read the article, and Jim's comments, in full.
Migrating South
11 June 2010
As some of you may be aware South Africa is not just host to one big international competition showcasing outstanding talent this year, but indeed two.
As well as some nail-biting, attention-grabbing action in the World Cup, South Africa is also playing host to the prestigious Loeries Awards.
Regionally focused on Africa and the Middle East the Loeries, first held in 1978, recognises, rewards and fosters creative excellence across a variety of disciplines including brand communications, architecture, advertising and digital media.
Our Creative Director, Greg Quinton, has been invited to judge the Communication Design category for the Loeries. Migrate magazine (the official magazine of the Loeries awards) has published an special edition showcasing some of the biggest ideas of the past year. There's also an interview with Greg and some beautifully presented examples of The Partners work.
Click here to read Greg's interview and click here and here to see the spreads.
A little mention
28 May 2010
This week Design Week has delivered their Top 100 Consultancy Survey. Unfortunately, due to reporting restrictions, we were unable to enter for the league table, however that's not meant that we didn't get a mention.
They included two examples of our work from the last 12 months that they consider to be some highlights of the past year.
Click here and here to see what they chose.
Word is out
27 May 2010
The Partners is delighted to announce that we have been appointed by Vodafone to review their global brand identity and guidelines.
The trade press have been making the announcement this week also, with articles in both Marketing and Campaign magazines.
We are very pleased to welcome Vodafone as a new client and look forward to producing some fantastic work with them.
A new fashionista in town
30 April 2010
The trade press has been talking about the emergence of a notable new fashion retail outlet this week.
Our client eBay has created a new Fashion Outlet site, with a supporting campaign to promote itself as a competitor to the high street stocking such brands as HoF, Kookai, Office but at discount prices.
Jack Renwick, Creative Director on the visual identity for the new site said “The easy thing to do is create a fashion identity; it’s harder to create a fashion identity that still reflects eBay and its distinct personality,”
She continued to say “eBay has such a loyal audience so we were conscious not to disrupt that; it was important to make the customer experience better and make it easier to shop.”
Our design builds on eBay’s continued shift from its auction site heritage towards its current state as one of the UK’s largest online retailers, with 17million visitors every month.
Click here to see an example of the new site.
Logo Love
9 April 2010
This month's Computer Arts magazine is dedicated to the topic of logos; something that, over our 26 year history, we've had a fair amount of experience in.
As part of their 'Masterclass' section they featured our work on both creating the new, innovative, BBC iPlayer logo along with our refresh of the iconic Jaguar leaper logo.
Interviewing both Jess and Greg, the publication explores the full journey of how to create from scratch, or rejuvenate an existing logo.
Click here to see the article in full.
What a lovely bunch
6 April 2010
There was a competition held recently, by Metro newspaper in conjunction with D&AD, for design agencies to come up with a design for a 'coverwrap' for the Metro paper.
Designers at The Partners leapt at the challenge and sent in a series of entries. The winner was announced at an event hosted by Metro and D&AD last Thursday and we were delighted that one of our ideas was selected as the winner.
Today is the day that the coverwrap has its debut. We've been tweeting about it via our Twitter account (@the_partners) and have been uploading photos onto our blog submitted by our followers on Twitter. Click here to link through to the blog entry and see the winning design in full.
Urban Interventions
26 March 2010
This week we had a gorgeous design book delivered to our studio. Published by Gestalten, their Urban Interventions book is the homage of brilliant pieces of art and design in the great urban outdoors.
Going beyond the graffiti and street art, this book celebrates the next generation of urban artist. Some of them are beautiful, some of them are funny, some of them are poignant, but all of them are brilliant.
We'd highly recommend this book as it's one you definitely need to have in your collection.
Click here to see The Partners work in book.
The hardest word
5 February 2010
In this week's copy of Marketing magazine there's a feature on 'Crisis Marketing'. Running your brand communications can seem like plain sailing when everything is going well, but what happens when the bottom falls out and you're left exposed, with your audience baring their teeth and people expecting answers?
The feature investigates how brands should be handling their communications when the going gets rough, and they asked Jim Prior to comment on what he thinks the right approach should be.
Click here to read what he said.
Hot to trot
28 January 2010
In this week's Design Week we were intrigued to find a supplement entitled 'Hot 50' which was said to be 'honouring 50 design activists' and recognising 'People making a difference in design'.
Intrigue developed into delight when, upon reading through the supplement, we discovered that The Partners appears in the listing.
We've always prided ourselves in pushing the creative mark and trying to make a difference, so its a great honour to be recognised for our achievements in doing exactly that.
Click here to read what DW had to say.
Minted Metro
22 January 2010
The Metro newspaper, in London, have recently been running a series of full page articles, in conjunction with D&AD, entitled 'Behind The Idea'.
The articles explore the latest ideas in advertising and design, as chosen by industry experts.
This week our very own Greg Quinton was asked to share his recent favourite design piece.
Click here to see what he chose and read the article in full.
Another Benchmark year
2 December 2009
Having only just (mildly) calmed down from the news that we were ranked the most creative company in Design Week's Creative Survey a couple of weeks back, last night saw the champagne come out again at the annual Design Week Benchmark Awards, hosted at the Grosvenor Hotel.
Submitting three projects, we were over the moon to discover we had two category winners and a commendation. Not a bad night at all.
Our winners were:
#Deloitte in Financial Services - Winner
#Eagleclean in Professional Services - Winner
#The Hoxton Pony in Sports, Leisure & Travel - Commendation
A huge congratulations to all the teams, and clients, involved in the projects.
One big ambition...
12 November 2009
...realised.
Design Week has published its annual league table today and we are filled with a heady mix of jubilation and gratification as our determination has paid off and we are back in the top-spot again after a short break. Not only that but it ranks us ahead of the Apple creative team, which for the many devout Apple disciples at this agency is an achievement not to be equaled again in one's lifetime.
When Design Week first published their league table back in 1989 The Partners internal ambition to be the 'most creative agency in the world' could finally be measured and (hopefully) realised.
Throughout most of the 90's The Partners topped the list and some believed we could not be wrestled from the top-spot.
In 2004 however the all-too-sobering reality of ranking 21st in the league tables gave The Partners what it hungers for most: A challenge.
The title was there for the taking, and, once again, it became the driving force within the agency to reclaim the top-spot.
Greg Quinton was interviewed by Design Week on what becoming the 'best creative agency in the world' once more means to everyone at The Partners. Click here to read
Really Good Book Explained
6 November 2009
This week Rockport Publishers sent us a copy of their Really Good Packaging Explained book which is the second in a series following up upon Really Good Logos Explained.
The book showcases the favoured designs of four of the world's most eminent voices in packaging design.
The Partners features in the book a staggering four times with Stanley Honey, Casa Loreto, 96 Degrees Coffee and Mr.Singh's Bangras.
It's a lovely book to have in your collection, bursting at the seams with excellent examples of packaging design from last few years.
Nothing for free
6 November 2009
When Evening Standard announced they were making their paper free, it caused quite a stir.
Would they lower the standard (sic) of the content now it's a 'free paper'? Would people ditch the London Lite in favour of it?
So passionate about the Evening Standard is Jim Prior that he wrote a letter to Media Week challenging the paper's decision to go free.
Click here to read the letter.
Island hopping
5 November 2009
This week has seen the long-awaited release of John Sorrell's Creative Island book.
Described as "An exploration of the extraordinary range and quality of recent British design, covering work from all disciplines", it describes over 100 projects, of John's choosing, from over the last few years and interviews the people responsible.
The Partners is delighted to be included in the book, not once, but twice. Once for The Grand Tour for The National Gallery, and once for Mr.Singh's Bangras for Daljit Singh.
Winter Warmers
30 October 2009
This week Ogilvy Advertising has launched a new campaign for the iconic appliance brand AGA. In a heartwarming campaign designed to spur people into purchasing an AGA for the Christmas season they have certainly helped to raise awareness.
Marketing Magazine ran the story and contacted Jim Prior for his thought on the campaign.
Click here to read the story.
Bond is back
19 October 2009
The Partners made a surprise appearance in the FT Weekend last week.
Considering that the book was released over a year ago, we were surprised to see it appearing in the newspaper now. It turns out, however, to be a critique written, by James Lovegrove, about how well the jacket design represents the content of the novel. Consequently it’s a discovery we were delighted to find.
Click here to read the article in full.
For the love of the job
15 October 2009
In this weeks Design Week they investigate the matter of pro-bono projects and whether they really inspire, as intended, or just present as many challenges as paid-for work.
As an agency that embraces the creative opportunities that many of our pro-bono projects bring us, Creative Partner, Greg Quinton was asked to explain what makes us want to get involved with pro-bono and how we manage the process.
Click here to read the article in full.
Settle the score
12 October 2009
The news that Coca-Cola is pulling its sponsorship of The Football League has certainly prompted mixed reactions.
Some believe that Coca-Cola have made the right decision by turning their backs on the 'second division' of football sponsorship when they're perhaps considered far more suited to the woozy heights of the Premiership and International Team sponsorship. However, some also believe that the drinks giant may have just hacked off its nose to spite its face.
Jim Prior was asked to comment on the story for mad.co.uk. Click here to read the article.
The referee's a banker!
8 October 2009
The Partners has once again teamed up with Richard House Children's Hospice, heading back into the City to flex their fundraising muscles with another fantastic event, the Richard House five-a-side football tournament.
Aimed at naturally competitive City workers the idea highlights the rivalry that exists in the office and encourages them to bring that to the pitch. In total 20 teams competed with Baker McKenzie becoming the champs in a stunning 3-0 win.
The Partners has designed a logo, posters and other promotional material for the five-a-side event. Click to see a picture of the event.
Raising the Celtic spirits
11 September 2009
There's no denying that it's been a bad time for our friends North of the border in the media recently.
After MacAskill's decision to free al-Megrahi the US has been dealing out the backlash. There has been encouragement to, not only, boycott Scottish products but to refrain from traveling to the country completely.
Just how badly could this effect the Scots, and how long is it likely to last?
Marketing magazine contacted Jim Prior for his opinion.
Click here to read the article in full.
Minding your brand
10 September 2009
As a marketer, your brand is your most valuable asset, so how do you protect it out there in the cold, hard world?
Marketing Week has been investigating how to protect your brand against the threat of counterfeiters and copycats.
They contacted Jim Prior for his comments.
Click here to read the article in full.
Brands in banking
1 September 2009
Last week B2B Marketing ran a feature on large non-financial brands moving into the financial services sector. This followed Tesco's announcement that it is opening an 800-strong customer care centre in Glasgow.
The question they posed was whether other business brands could, or should, follow Tesco's lead.
Jim Prior wrote a comment piece about this for them.
Click here to see the piece in full on the 'madcomments' blog
Museum on the move
27 August 2009
This weeks Design Week covers the story of the V&A brand heading 'up North' to open museums in Blackpool, and Dundee. With both cities keen to capitalise on the 'Bilbao effect' (see article) the V&A brand is on the move.
Having worked extensively with The National Gallery over the past decade, Design Week approached us to comment on how brand is best put to use when it comes to museums and galleries.
Jim Prior, CEO, shares his thoughts and experiences on brand for this area. Click here to read the article in full
Living Jerwood
27 August 2009
Today not only marked the end of the Laboratory exhibition at the Jerwood Foundation space in London, but also marked the birth of its innovative and experimental exhibition catalogue.
For the past four weeks the Jerwood Space has been home to three artists (one sculptor, one painter and one film-maker). Within that time they have used their allocated gallery space to create their work. It's been an evolving, living exhibition that people could witness first hand.
When The Partners was asked to create a catalogue for the exhibition we wanted to create a piece that was in the true spirit of the 'work in progress' exhibition. We wanted something we couldn't predict and also couldn't control. Something that would, like the show, develop over time culminating as the exhibition itself closed.
Click here to download the PDF that tells the story, or see the Creative Review blog for an overview and video of the finished product.
We're simply Deloitted!
6 August 2009
Marketing Week this week has run a story on the global advertising campaign that we have produced, for Deloitte, in partnership with Muir Howard.
Having commenced work on a global rebranding programme for Deloitte back in 2007 we have continued to work with them on some very exciting projects. This advertising campaign is one of the latest initiatives to be undertaken by the progressively-minded firm.
Click here to read the story in full
Spending a Penney
7 July 2009
Manhattan has just announced the opening of its first ever J.C.Penney store.
The middle-American retailer is taking on the high-flying fashionistas of New York and, although their ad campaign supporting the opening is sharp and sassy in its feel, they claim to be maintaining their down-to-earth authenticity.
The New York Times has been casting its eye over the campaign today and contacted our Managing Director, Steven Gilliatt for his comments.
Click here to read the article in full.
Canned gold
26 June 2009
This week saw the welcome return of our Creative Partner Greg Quinton. Whilst we've all been sitting gazing longingly at the sun through the studio window, Greg has been sunning it up in Cannes at the Cannes Design Lion awards
(although he's adamant that the majority of the time was spent holed up in a board-room furrowing his brow over the judging).
Greg's welcome home was made even sweeter when he returned with not only a Gold Cannes Lion for Office Games but also a Bronze Gold Lion for Mr Singh's Bangras.
Digital gets bigger
25 June 2009
We are pleased to announce that our digital strategy team is continuing to grow as we welcome both James and Ben to the team.
James is a seasoned Digital Design Director having worked with agencies such as Hyper Happen, Poke and Syzygy. Also, starting out in traditional graphic design, James is adept at turning his hand to both sides of the design coin.
Ben, an accomplished and accustomed Project Manager, joins the team having worked with agencies such as Greenhouse Design, Keymedia Design and Liquid Light, all in the Brighton (self-titled) 'Silicon Beach' area.
Ben's lunchtime courtyard yoga sessions and James' outspoken love for his Brompton have ensured that the pair have made a big splash at The Partners so far.
Welcome both James and Ben.
Creativity is not an option
24 June 2009
The Partners recently conducted research into how much value UK businesses place on 'creativity' as part of their strategy. As a result of this our Managing Partner, Jim Prior, has written an opinion piece for The Times today based on the research findings.
It came as no surprise to us that whereas many companies place a high value on creativity, very few feel capable of delivering it, or even have it on the agenda at board level. Jim offers some suggestions for how to harness creativity and help drive your business forward. Click here to download the article or read it on the TimesOnline website.
If you wish to find out more about the research we conducted please contact Helen Jones on 0207 689 4581.
Self-promoting? Us?...
29 May 2009
This week we were contacted by the publishers of the forthcoming book Big Book of Self Promotion to inform us that two pieces of The Partners design are to be featured within it.
They have chosen our Client who hated ideas chalk outline drawing that adorns the floor of our courtyard as a gentle heed to clients that we know best, and also the *Festive Meal Disclaimer apron we designed for our European law firm client, Wolf Theiss.
If you would like to purchase a copy of the book then please contact Crescent Hill Books.
Britain's Brand Talent
13 May 2009
Well, it seems there's just no escaping 'The Boyle Effect'. Ever since Susan Boyle appeared on our screens in Britain's Got Talent on ITV she's caused quite a stir.
She's appeared on Oprah, amassed a huge celebrity following both in the UK and US, clocked up in the region of 100million hits on YouTube, has her own official fan-site, 5 pages of options to follow on Twitter and now is reportedly being courted by brands eager to sign her up as their brand ambassador.
However, is all this super-fast-success too good to be true? Is it a case of when will the Boyle burst as opposed to if?
Marketing magazine contacted Jim Prior to get his view on 'Brand Boyle' for their latest Brand In News section.
Click here to read the article in full.
Rising stars
8 May 2009
This week saw D&AD announcing the Student Award nominees.
With over 3,000 entries this year the judges really had their work cut out for them.
As this years D&AD Education Chairman, our own Greg Quinton was there to assist in the process.
Click here for more information on the nominations.
Sign of the The Times
1 May 2009
The Partners New York office has been making a splash with their launch in the US, so much so that we even got a mention in the Media and Advertising section in the New York Times this week.
With them keeping a watchful eye on our progress we'll be making sure we're keeping our noses clean and our work razor-sharp (as always).
Click here to see the mention.
Call to arms
15 April 2009
As The British Army, this week, launches a new interactive marketing campaign designed to allow potential recruits to see what life in the army would be like (whilst getting to play yet another Doom-style computer game), Marketing magazine debated whether this was a clever move for The British Army to make in terms of increasing recruitment numbers or whether it's just a flash in the pan marketing stunt.
Jim Prior was contacted for his comment on the new campaign. Click here to read the article in full.
Down the tube
9 April 2009
Every once in a while there are little things that pop up and grab our attention whilst we mull over life's intricacies on our way to work of a morning.
For Jim Prior it's exactly the same.
Not just last week, when he happened to notice a headline in his beloved Metro newspaper requesting its readers to take their papers with them at the end of their journey, did he begin to wonder what Metro was thinking.
Have they lost sight of their audience? Is this really the best way to encourage recycling?
Jim set to task writing an article on our blog The Crossed Cow which was picked up shortly after by Mad.co.uk, where they also published his views.
Click here to read the article on Mad.
New York, new face...
8 April 2009
It is with unequivocal delight that we welcome Stewart Devlin to the New York team as our newly appointed Creative Director.
With a background including a role as the Creative Director of the formidable ad agency, TAXI in New York, Stewart is renowned for his inimitable creativity and wit which we believe makes him the perfect fit for the role of The Partners lead creative in NY.
Having cut his creative teeth here in the UK at the likes of Lewis Moberly, Stewart has a strong understanding of both markets either side of the Atlantic.
He says: "With a London agency background, this is the perfect role for me as the whole ethos behind the international expansion is 'one office, two front doors'."
Welcome Stewart.
The trust tussle
3 April 2009
This week Media & Marketing magazine discussed the issue of trust. Brands need it, but do they have it?
With the current economic climate clouding consumers trust in brands, how can this be successfully turned back around?
Jim Prior was contacted to comment on 'the trust issue'. Click here to read the online article
Olym-pop
26 March 2009
In this week's Design Week the Voxpop asked the question about how Olympic organisers can improve relationships with the design industry.
Jim Prior responded with his suggestion.
Click here to read the Voxpop in full
Selling out?
13 March 2009
With Ben & Jerry's under Unilever and Howies under Timberland perhaps it was only a matter of time before we saw reports of Innocent (the bastion of independent spirit) merging with corporate brand giants.
This week Marketing magazine reports on the fact that Innocent are allegedly in talks with Coca-Cola. The smoothie manufacturer seems to be planning to sell off a stake of its business to the global brand monolith.
Could this be a good tactical move for the Innocent brand, or is it merely all about the money?
Jim Prior was asked to comment on whether he thought it was a good move for the brand. Read the article, in full, here.
The Tuesday triple
4 March 2009
Now that the dust is settling (and the energy drinks are kicking in finally) after last nights celebrations, we are delighted to announce that Design Week awarded The Partners with a triple win at their annual awards ceremony last night, hosted at The London Hilton on Park Lane.
The Office Games poster, produced for Richard House Children's Hospice to advertise their new fund-raising event in the City, won in the Poster category.
The innovative edible-henna-tattooed Indian sausages; Mr.Singh's Bangras, won in the Branded Packaging category.
The utterly charming website for, small London cleaning company, Eagleclean also 'cleaned up' with a win in the Digital Design - Commercial category.
Along with the 3 wins, The Collaborative Art Catalogue for the Jerwood Foundation received a commendation in the Print Design category; the Deloitte News Wall was shortlisted in the Digital Design - Information category and both The Connaught and Wolf Theiss also made the shortlist for the Identity Programmes category.
A busy night all round. We'd also like to issue a big congratulations to our client The National Gallery who were inaugurated into the Design Week Hall of Fame. Congratulations!
In the market
3 March 2009
The online shopping website eBay has appointed The Partners as their chosen agency to oversee the visual brand development across Europe.
The Partners first started working with eBay back in May last year when we created a new visual concept for the brand. They have now asked us to extend the work across the European sites also.
Marketing magazine picked up the story and have included it in this week's issue. Click here to see the article.
The spoof is out there...
30 January 2009
This week's Marketing magazine analyses the growing trend for viral spoof ads, which are proving ever more popular, as an increase in broadband penetration makes it easier for people to share videos online.
But is the spoof route the right route for a brand to take? Is it clever or just a cheap imitation?
Jim Prior was asked to comment on this particular strategy. Read the article , in full, here.
Hot to trot
30 January 2009
The National Gallery and The Partners made it into Design Week's Hot 50 listing this week with The Grand Tour project.
The list is compiled as a 'celebration of people, organisations and movements that have gone the extra mile for design over the past 12 months.'
Awards flash #1
19 January 2009
Looks like The Partners are the latest sensation to hit The OC (and there's not a leather-bracelet-wearing-bad-boy from Chino to be found amongst us).
This week saw The Partners scoop 3 gold awards and 1 silver at the Mobius advertising awards in California, USA.
Awards flash #2
19 January 2009
Last week the Midas Awards took place in New York. Produced by the New York Festivals the competition recognises excellence in financial services communications across the globe.
The Partners won an award for the innovative and interactive digital Newswall produced for one of our leading clients.
Book club
16 January 2009
The Partners have been making a bit of a splash in the book world recently.
Not only is The Grand Tour featured in Tom Himpe's latest collection of the 150 winning campaigns for the new communications age "Advertising Next", but our classic Stanley Honey Pots have also featured recently in the Gestalten publication "crEATe" and the Victionary publication "Simply Packaging".
The business and design guru Marty Neumeier has even referenced The Partners' "Third Brain Thinking" in his latest book 'The Designful Company' as a key to understanding how the mind works in the world of design and business.
It's nice to see the old favourites still getting recognition.
Teaching us right from wrong?
9 January 2009
D&AD announced this week that their new Education Chairman is none other than our very own Greg Quinton.
A big fan of encouraging new talent and spotting the potential in everyone we know that Greg will do a fantastic job.
Congratulations Greg; just don't expect to be dishing out the detentions or receiving an apple on your desk every day now!
Click here and here to read more about Greg's appointment.
What's in store?
8 January 2009
Marketing Week have kicked off 2009 with an article compiled of leading marketers' predictions for the year ahead and how brands will cope through the foreseeable recession.
Jim Prior was one of those adding his predictions to the pot.
Click here to see what he believes the future holds.
Standing our ground
10 December 2008
This week saw the publication of the eagerly anticipated Marketing's 'Agency of The Year' listing.
For the second year running The Partners has made it into the runner-up slot in the Design Agency category, proving that we are still the leading alternative to the 'safe pairs of hands' offer of some of the other agencies.
To read what Marketing had to say about our stellar year click here
Hitting the benchmark
3 December 2008
Last night saw the annual Design Week Benchmark awards take place at the Grosvenor Hotel in London.
As well as sore heads the next morning we also managed to come away with a category win, 3 commendations and a category shortlisting. All in all, a very successful night for us and our clients. The results were as follows:
The Connaught - Winner (Leisure)
Bangras - Commended (Food)
Thrislington Cubicles - Commended (Manufacturing)
Office Games - Commended (Not for Profit)
Wolff Theiss - Shortlisted (Professional Services)
Click here to link through to Design Week's website where you can listen to a Benchmarks podcast of an interview with Greg Quinton and Margaret Wolhuter as they come off-stage from collecting the award for The Connaught job (starts at 6mins 30secs).
Woolies waves goodbye
2 December 2008
This week saw the final collapse of the hobbling old high street bastion brand Woolworths.
But was it the collapsing UK economy or simply poor brand management that was responsible for propelling this much loved British retailer into the final flat-spin?
Marketing magazine called Jim Prior for his comments on where he believes the Woolworths story went wrong.
Click here to read the article in full on Marketing's website
Top of the vox
28 November 2008
Greg has been at it again in Design Week.
This week's edition has asked some industry players to name their favourite pieces of outdoor art in the UK.
Click here to see which artwork got Greg's vote.
Refreshing remarks
20 November 2008
Heineken's recent reshuffle of its advertising roster prompted Marketing Week to review how the brand's managing after the repositioning to a premium brand 5 years ago.
Jim Prior was called for comment as to how the brand should behave in order to inject some much needed personality back into itself.
Click here for the full article.
Playing to win
14 November 2008
Computer Arts magazine has been contemplating the value of industry awards and how you should decide which ones to enter and which to avoid.
As we've just been listed as the UK's most creatively awarded agency this year, it seemed obvious that they would want to ask us how and why we subject ourselves to the hard slog of numerous awards entries every year.
Greg Quinton (the man with his eye on the prize) has offered his opinion on how to win the race to the podium.
Click here to read the article in full.
There is also a mention of the project we did for Winnersh Triangle in the same issue. Click here to read that article also.
In a league of our own
13 November 2008
Today is the day that Design Week announces it's annual design league tables and we are delighted to find ourselves second only to Apple in terms of creativity.
We are the highest ranking agency in the main league tables both overall and also in the UK.
It's been an outstanding year for The Partners at the awards ceremonies and has even seen us sweeping the board outside our own traditional sector and into the heady heights of the advertising world.
What a great way to end 2008...and a fantastic way to start 2009!
The Partners scoops another
11 November 2008
Last night saw The Partners in grand company at the London International Awards picking up a gold award for The Grand Tour.
The London International Awards were founded "to recognise and honour exceptional creative work in Advertising, Design and Digital Media and those who have created them".
Needless to say we were rather proud.
What's the BIG idea?
24 October 2008
This week saw Campaign magazine host its inaugural awards ceremony, the Big Awards, for the cream of the advertising world at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.
In addition to the general merriment of the evening there was an extra treat in store for The Partners when; despite not even being a 'traditional advertising agency', we scooped both a Gold and a Silver award in two categories for The Grand Tour.
Click here to read the full write up in this week's Campaign.
Click here to read Campaign's profile of Jim and Greg.
Crisis of confidence
16 October 2008
With the economic situation still on a downward course Marketing Week magazine has been looking at the UK's financial institutions and wondering how they can ride the storm of failing consumer confidence whilst making sure that their campaigns are not sending out the wrong signals.
Marketing Week was keen to hear Jim Prior's opinion on the topic.
Click here to read the article in full.
The moral dilemma
14 October 2008
As corporate sponsorship continues to grow within the realms of academic institutions and research, the question is posed as to whether brands are entirely honourable in their pursuit of the perfect CSR claims. Also, are the academics simply selling their souls in the pursuit of big fat cheques?
This month's Director magazine has picked up the debate and asked Jim Prior for his opinion.
Click here to read the article in full
Driven to distraction
10 October 2008
In this week's Media & Marketing magazine they have been focusing on the automotive sector and how, with both the credit crunch and environmental issues on the tips of tongues everywhere, car sales have been hitting a slippery slope.
With experience of working on brands such as Ford, Jaguar and McLaren, Jim Prior was asked to comment on what car brands can do to really turn a corner.
Click here to read the article in full.
Serving a slice of red hot
8 October 2008
This week's Marketing magazine has seen the Pizza Hut re-brand story leading the way on the front page.
When Marketing magazine contacted Managing Partner, Jim Prior, for his comments on the recent changes made by the restaurant brand he, in the style of an all-you-can-eat offer, didn't hold back.
To read Jim's comments in full click here.
Making an impression
26 September 2008
It's always nice to feel that you've been an inspiration to someone.
So, what could be more flattering than Jim Sutherland (D&AD exec member/partner of successful design agency/ex-employee of The Partners) commenting in a recent copy of Campaign magazine that our prolific listing in the D&AD Annual 20 years ago motivated him to get into our line of business and come and work for us?
We're really proud that all those years ago we helped to motivate Jim, and that he still credits us so. Thanks Jim.
To read the full article click here.
No fooling us
12 September 2008
Hot off the blocks, Nathan's been contributing to the media. Brand Strategy magazine were keen to gather his opinion on how brands will be effected by the introduction of new regulations concerning the use of multiple channels. He believes regulations of this type could restrict brands from creating an element of 'buzz' around them. For the full article click here.
Let's get digital
1 September 2008
We are delighted to announce the arrival of Nathan Williams as Head of Digital in August 2008. He has dived straight into the deep end and is already immersed in client programmes. Nathan joins us from Sapient where he was Head of User Experience and brings a wealth of digital knowledge and experience to the team.
Geek thrills
29 August 2008
The August issue of Computer Arts magazine sees our esteemed Creative Director, Greg, offering up the works of comic artist Guido Crepax as his ultimate design classic. Upon first seeing the work that Greg refers to: Lanterna Magica, one would be inclined to assume the obvious when wondering what appeal it must have held for a, then teenage, budding creative. However, Greg reassures even the most sceptical reader that it's less to do with the content of the work, but more with how the cropping of illustrations, wonderful use of detail, dramatic changes of pace and a cinematic quality makes it an all time classic in his opinion. Click here to see the article in full.
Captain Crunch
1 August 2008
This week's Marketing magazine included an article on the effect of the credit crunch on brands, and how some are finding ways to exploit the situation through strategy and advertising to benefit themselves. Our man-with-a-voice Jim Prior's opinion that the credit crunch is rapidly becoming a brand in its own right seemed to add oil to the argument. To read the article in full, click here
Charity begins at work
30 July 2008
Last week saw the inaugural Office Games event in London, a spoof Olympics involving such events as Floppy Discus and the Office Chair Relay. Conceived as a fundraiser for London charity; Richard House Children's Hospice, The Partners created a brand identity to raise awareness for a good cause. As Creative Director Jack Renwick put it; "This has been a great project to work on for such a fantastic charity. The design team have been in intensive training for the Games and look to be a dead cert to clinch gold in the "Post-it Note Fencing".
Find out more about the charity here
Bronze, Silver & Gold
7 July 2008
Following our six nominations in this years New York Festivals, we are pleased (and chuffed) to announce that we managed to come home with a veritable Olympic treasure chest of medals. Our Indian Sausages for Mr. Singh's Bangras made us all dance with joy taking home a Bronze, the luxurious Brand book for Davidoff scooped a Silver, while the National Gallery Grand Tour was top of the podium with a Gold. Other finalists included our Winnersh Triangle invite, Pantone Painting and the Observation Tower Promotional Mailer for Davidson Highley. Congratulations to all those involved.
Top of the vox
2 July 2008
It has to be said, that we're not exactly shy when it comes to making a comment or two, or even three. Why, just in the past month, we've been generously asked by Design Week to keep the banter rolling as part of their Vox Pop column. First off, Jim was asked his thoughts on opportunistic collaborative brand strategies, then clearly having liked what he'd said he was again asked the following week about whether cigarettes could/should lose their branding as suggested by the Department of Health here in the UK. Rob also got on the case, giving a rather honest rational for why he believes London is the World's best city this after Monocle Magazine recently voted Scandinavia's Copenhagen to be the best city in the World to live.
Click here to download all three of the Vox-Pops and read what they have to say
Hear us ROAR!
23 June 2008
It's been all sun, sea and success for The Partners in Cannes this week. Taking time out from topping up the tans, and celeb spotting, we managed to scoop a Gold Lion award in the inaugural Cannes Lions Design Awards which ran concurrently alongside the world famous advertising awards, where we also managed to pick up a Silver Lion in the advertising category. www.canneslions.com
Stars in their eyes
13 June 2008
It's been all sun, sea and success for The Partners in Cannes this week. Taking time out from topping up the tans, and celeb spotting, we managed to scoop a Gold Lion award in the inaugural Cannes Lions Design Awards which ran concurrently alongside the world famous advertising awards, where we also managed to pick up a Silver Lion in the advertising category.
It's up to you New York...
9 June 2008
This week, we've been thrilled to hear that no less than SIX pieces of Partners work has been nominated for this year's New York Festivals. Among the nominations are our huge poster for Davidson Highley, Mr Singh's Bangras Indian sausages, Winnersh Triangle launch invitation, our very own Pantone painting, the Davidoff brand book and The National Gallery Grand Tour. The winners will be announced on 30th June. Until then we'll wait with fingers crossed and breath suitably bated.
Bond hits the high seas
29 May 2008
The new Bond book 'Devil May Care' launched on Tuesday this week in predictably grandiose style. The elaborate book cover, designed by The Partners, was on full display in a clear case clutched tightly by cover model Tuuli Shipster as they were powered along the Thames River in a Royal Navy Pacific 2 sea boat flanked by a full military escort care of our Royal Navy and all the while being watched over from above by the Royal Navy Cat Lynx Helicopters. The journey didn't stop there however as after they were met by Sebastian Faulks and members of the Fleming family, the books were then escorted in a cavalcade of Bentleys up to the Waterstone's bookshop in Piccadilly where people queued overnight to get their hands on the latest Bond adventure. Buy the latest Bond adventure here
Elated cheers all round
16 May 2008
The waiting is over. The results are in, and it’s fair to say that there is more than a mere tremor of excitement resonating around The Partners studio this morning.
What better way to celebrate our 25th year by winning our first ever BLACK Pencil?
Needless to say that we were thrilled when, last night, the announcement was made that not only had we won the Poster Advertising Campaign category, but, we had indeed scooped the illustrious Black Pencil with The Grand Tour.
Despite the sore heads this morning there are smiles aplenty as the lacquered black beauty joins its yellow friends in our reception area.
Click here to see what else won on the night.
Framework for agency success
1 May 2008
In the third in the series of what has now become a catalyst of The Partners press coverage of late, Jim Prior offers his insight and first-hand knowledge on the topic of how to structure your agency in order to achieve success. In The Partners 24 year history we've had times where we've weathered some storms as well as some times of seemingly plain sailing, yet we are still the most awarded creative agency at events all year round. With this kind of winning approach to commercial practise Design Week considered Jim to be an appropriate spokesperson on how to run an agency, and do it right. Click here to read the article in full
Brand personality fraud?
1 May 2008
In the second in a series of commentaries by Managing Partner, Jim Prior, he was interviewed by Marketing Week on whether brand personality can be conceived to be a fraud. In a topic close to our hearts here at The Partners, Jim, in his imitable style, has taken the topic and debated it in such a way as you sit there at the end with empty tea mug in hand, a sense of enlightenment, and think of course! Click here to read the article in full.
B2B star
1 May 2008
In the first of a series of press commentaries, Managing Partner, Jim Prior was asked to debate in a piece for the April issue of B2B Marketing magazine whether he believes that there is space in TV ad land for B2B companies. With the likes of Direct Line and Heathrow Express targeting a B2B audience via their TV ad campaigns, the question posed was whether other business brand should follow suit. In his unique and pragmatic style, Jim offers his structured argument in opposition. Click here to read the full article.
Pencil us in
25 April 2008
The list of D&AD in-books and nominations has been released to elated cheers or disappointed mutterings in the design and advertising fraternities. Our Grand Tour project is included in-book in the Ambient Media and Integrated categories. It also has a nomination in the Advertising & Poster Campaigns category. We'll find out whether ours is an elated cheer or a disappointed mutter when the winners are announced in May.
Power up
21 April 2008
Last week saw the launch of the new TV Licensing brand identity. The Partners teamed up with the BBC's TV Licensing Team in the summer of 2007 to commence work on the new identity, as part of a number of wider strategic initiatives for the brand. A principal objective for the update of the look and feel was to make it fit for purpose in communicating its relevance in today's world of digital media consumption. It was equally essential to maintain the integrity, authority and enforcement credentials of a vehicle responsible for administering and collecting over £3 billion of licence fee income. The new identity is based on the universal icon for a power button evolved to include a tick symbol. Because today's consumer has many different potential devices for watching broadcast media, it was felt that the one common and uniting factor was simply the power button. The implicit tick emerging from the icon is designed to convey a sense of positive responsibility. A sense that if you pay the licence fee, you are doing the right thing.
Annual inauguration
21 April 2008
The annuals season has kicked off and we're pleased to announce that we're off to a flying start with the publishers of the Graphis Advertising Annual featuring The Grand Tour. We'd like to thank Graphis for the interest that they have shown and the additional coverage they're giving us as a result of their support for the project. It's so nice to know that despite Graphis being all the way over in the US, The Grand Tour is still causing ripples across the pond. With entries submitted for both D&AD and New York Art Directors Club annuals also, watch this space for more news.
Off to a flyer at Gleneagles
18 March 2008
Gleneagles: the home of golf. Where world leaders get to grips with global warming, and for one weekend, the home of the annual McNaugtons Review - an opportunity for designers and printers to celebrate and share some stunning work produced in the last year. Our gorgeous Davidoff Brand book picked up three prizes: Best corporate brochure design, Best corporate brochure print and was the Overall winner for print. A big thank you to everyone at McNaugtons who made the Review such a memorable event. Click here to download the awards PDF.
Grand Tour at the Design Museum
5 February 2008
The Grand Tour has been chosen as part of the 'Designs of the Year' exhibition at London's Design Museum. The exhibition is 'an annual exploration of the most innovative, interesting and forward looking new work in design of all kinds from around the world...nominated by a group of internationally respected design experts, curators, critics and practitioners'. We can't help but see a certain irony in the fact that the Grand Tour took an exhibition to the streets of London and is now part of an exhibition inside the Design Museum. Find out more about it here. The news comes in the same week that we were contacted by the Cruz-Diez Museum to contribute work from the project for a forthcoming exhibition. That'll be the Cruz-Diez Museum in Caracas, Venezuela.
(Almost) Design Agency of the Year
21 January 2008
As January is a popular time for reflection, we at The Partners have been musing on the best bits of 2007. One that really stands out was being a 'close runner up' in Marketing Magazine's Design Agency Of The Year survey. Based as much on commercial strength as creative merit, the survey highlighted the fact that The Partners is continuing to grow in recognition as much for our strategic consultancy as our creative output. A 'strong contender' for the top spot, Marketing judges particularly liked our work with the National Gallery, LV= and our big wins at the Benchmark Awards in December. Click here to download a copy of Marketing's write up.
Creative start
2 January 2008
The new year has only just begun but we've already made it into a couple of shiny new publications. The January issue of Creative Review features our Pantone painting in its showcase section. The reproduction of Manet's 'A Bar at the Folies-Bergere' was created out of 'lots' of individual Pantone swatches for our second Lock In event. Also out this month is the annual YCN book 07/08 which includes our Tim Greenhalgh poster which was made of 'lots' of Lego and can be read in two directions.
The YCN book 07/08 can be purchased here.
Download jpegs of the work by clicking CR Showcase or YCN Annual.
From Smithfield with love
5 December 2007
We were thrilled when Penguin approached us to design the cover for the latest Bond novel, Devil May Care by Sebastian Faulks - the first to truly extend Fleming's line. Sex and violence were the inspiration, with a nod to classic Bond iconography. Trawling for the right Bond girl seemed to take forever... It's a great honour to become a small part of Bond history. The book will be launched in May 2008.
Setting the benchmark again
28 November 2007
We were delighted to be the most awarded agency at Tuesday night's Design Week Benchmarks Awards, scooping an unrivalled 3 category wins, a commendation and a shortlisting. As the awards reward the best in brand communication, we're really pleased to be recognised for projects as varied as the identity for a financial services company, communications for a toilet cubicle manufacturer, and an identity for a social networking group of new Dads.
House of Fraser flagship sets sail
16 November 2007
House of Fraser has opened its new flagship store in Oxford Street, emblazoned with The Partners' new identity... looks very nice too, although it has to be said, we were drawn just as much by the House of Fraser branded chocolates...
Benchmarks 2007
14 November 2007
The Benchmarks are Design Week's annual awards honouring the best in brand communication. We're delighted to have five projects shortlisted for the awards, and especially pleased for Thrislington Cubicles, who have been nominated as client of the year. The winners will be announced on November 27th. Shortlisted: Airwave, The Chelsea Tile Company, Dad Club, Liverpool Victoria and Thrislington Cubicles. Download the full Benchmarks shortlist here. Visit the Design Week website here..
What makes The Partners tick?
14 November 2007
Inspirations is Design Week's ongoing series on what influences the great and the good of the Design world. Here, the Partners very own Greg Quinton talks about the joys of being a shopaholic... Download Greg's full confession here.
In the news
14 November 2007
Thanks go to Steve Seamark and Dr Bryony Conway for keeping us in mind recently, and discussing the merits of one of our projects in these recent Design Week articles. Download the Design Week article here.
Grand night
19 September 2007
The National Gallery Grand Tour project picked up a rather heavy gong at the MM (Media and Marketing) Awards for Best use of Creative Media which is nice because we do believe that all media should be creative!! The National Gallery, Hewlett Packard and The Partners Team collected the award from Bill Bailey (who was a great host on the night).
The (sexy) car in front...
14 September 2007
... is the new Jaguar XF and it will be the first production car to sport the new 3D leaper badging which we created as part of the identity programme. We at The Partners wish Ian Callum and all the team at Jaguar the best of luck with this and future car model launches.
BBC iPlayer
4 September 2007
Currently in testing, the BBC is offering a new service for downloading programme content via the web. It was described as "a crucial part of Director General Mark Thompson's vision for the Corporation's future" (Observer 2/9/07). The new iPlayer identity was created by The Partners. If you would like to try the service in beta form click here. The service is currently only available to PCs running Windows XP.
Executive stress (?)
4 September 2007
We recently heard that voting on the new D&AD executive (the design equivalent to the Jedi High Council) had closed and that our very own Greg Quinton had been elected onto the executive. He commented: "I am delighted to be voted onto the executive. I can't help thinking that maybe a graphic designer screwed up the ballot papers again! But, until they realise, I am going to enjoy doing what I can for what I consider to be the best creative institution in the world". Visit the D&AD website here
Chip, Chip Hooray!
4 September 2007
Chip Shop Awards, the 'no rules' creative award scheme has awarded our work for Dad Club (Best Identity) and Kate Gray (Photographer) with a couple of rather charming 'Chips'. At this rate, we will soon have a whole portion! Have a look at the winning work on the Chip Shop Awards website
Smile at the find
4 September 2007
Flicking through Poliform's sumptuous new brochure and what should we find? Our very own design classic 'Smile in the Mind' in pride of place. Thank you Poliform! If you would like your very own copy of 'Smile in the Mind', essential reading for any budding designer, you can get your copy at Amazon here.
Show off @ RCA
31 August 2007
YCN is a fantastic member based organisation that helps to showcase new and emerging talents in design and communication. From the 31st August - 3rd September it is holding a summer exhibition, entitled 'Show Off' at the Royal College of Arts, where work that has been commended as part of the YCN Design & Communication Awards are on display. The eagle-eyed of you would have spotted that the Shortlist poster, designed for the University of Wolverhampton, was one of the chosen few commended. Due to its sheer length, it needed a dedicated hanging space made for it alongside the other entries. The exhibition is open to the public and is free, although be quick, as it is only on until Monday 3rd September at 1pm. For more information visit the YCN website.
An Independent view
13 August 2007
We've been amazed and feel deeply chuffed by the amount of press inches and the number of blogs that have commented on our work on The Grand Tour for the National Gallery. Yet, even after a couple of months of the tour on display in London's Soho and Covent Garden, the tour is still having praise heaped upon it. The most recent article came in last Saturdays' Independent newspaper from novelist Howard Jacobson. Howard describes the tour as "...a splendid summertime treat: strolling through Soho with Caravaggio by your side ... Credit where credit's due: this has turned out to be everybody's idea of a good time. Art, you see. And not just any art, not another fatuous shop-window installation, but painting. By universal consent, the Grand Tour has turned a pig's ear of a summer into a silk purse". View the article online here, or download the PDF version here.
Hot off the press
27 July 2007
More press for The Partners this week. Design Week covered stories both on the launch of the new identity for Airwave; the world's largest provider of public-safety communications and on the National Gallery's Grand Tour - where digital and online interactivity are bringing the tour to anyone with a mobile phone. The August edition of Creative Review also features a section on The Grand Tour highlighting the 'innovative method of promoting the artistic wonders that lie within the walls of London's National Gallery'. The piece includes pictures taken by the public that have been uploaded to the Grand Tour's Flickr photo pool. Download PDFs of each article here: DW Airwave, DW The Grand Tour, CR The Grand Tour.
Roger roger
13 July 2007
We are pleased to announce the launch of a new brand strategy and identity for Airwave; the world’s largest provider of public-safety communication services. Airwave operates a secure mobile communication network and support services for the UK's emergency service organisations and public safety agencies including police, ambulance and fire services, the MOD, the Highways Agency and local authorities. Airwave has forged a reputation for meeting customers’ demanding requirements in even the most challenging of situations. The identity has been designed to work on mobile and other digital devices as well as in print and environmental applications such as on emergency response vehicles. It will be rolled out in the summer of 2007 across external and internal communications, as well as signage and environments at multiple UK sites. Read a full press release here.
D&AD 2007
2 July 2007
Continuing a tradition of awards success that stretches back over 20 years, The Partners have two pieces in this year's Design and Art Direction (D&AD) awards annual. Both appeared in the Posters section, proving that in the world of big branding there's still a place for simple ideas, elegantly executed. Congratulations to the teams involved. Have a look at the full pieces here.
Who's the Daddy?
20 June 2007
Success in awards is always a great honour and is recognition of the hard work that our designers put in. It's even better when that recognition comes from as far afield as the United States and the coveted New York Festivals. Following on from last year's Gold award, we picked up a Silver award for the Dad Club identity and also were a finalist with our Undesign exhibition created for the London Design Festival. Congratulations to everyone involved.
Bookmarked
23 May 2007
We're proud to announce the launch of the identity of an exciting new publishing company Spiegel & Grau, a division of the Doubleday Publishing Group. Publishing 30 new hardcover titles a year and 35-40 paperbacks, the Spiegel & Grau booklist is a mix of literary fiction and upmarket non-fiction. Their first release, Suze Orman's 'Women & Money', published in February, was a #1 bestseller and already has over 750,000 copies in print. Julie Grau, Publisher and Senior VP, describes the logo as... "beautiful and elegant. We also love that it takes our name and turns it, visually, into a book. If we had to come up with one message, our new logo says it: that we are about the books we publish".
FABulous
23 May 2007
A FABulous time was had by all but especially by The Partners at the 9th International Food & Beverage Awards, held in the sumptuous surroundings of London's Hurlingham Club. The FAB Awards are the only International Creative Awards programme in the world focused solely on work created for Food and Drink brands. This year's awards attracted over 3,500 pieces of work from over 65 countries, covering all mediums from TV straight through to online. Leading the pack for awards was... us! We took the FABulous Award for the best packaging in the entire awards programme with our glorious packaging for Casa Loreto Olive Oil which also took the FAB Award in savoury foods. The voting was unanimous! Find out more about Casa Loreto in the Our work tab of our site and also find out more about this year's awards here.
Ambassador, you are (almost) spoiling us...
22 May 2007
As well as our leading action in the London Design Festival, we were proud to be asked to speak on luxury branding at the recent Belgrade Design Week. Now in its second year, the week-long festival in Serbia draws some of the biggest global names in design and architecture. This year, our own Nick Clark shared the platform with Droog Design, Alessi and Frame Magazine, as well as Winka Dubbledam – a name as fantastical as the buildings her firm (Architectonics) designs – and the legendary, Rem Koolhas. Due to the tie-up of this event with the Dutch embassy (hence the number of Dutch speakers), we also enjoyed a swish reception at the Dutch Ambassador's pad. Nice nibbles, but sadly no Ferrero Rocher...
Find out more about Belgrade Design Week here
Those who can, teach
4 May 2007
In a continuing series,Design Week have been asking industry figures to talk about the things that inspire them. This week our creative chairman, Aziz, talks about what inspired him to become a designer in the first place and end up inspiring everybody else in turn. Read the article online here, or download the article here
LV=
3 April 2007
We are proud to announce the rejuvenation of the UK's largest Friendly Society; Liverpool Victoria - breathing life and meaning back into their brand.
A winning market
3 April 2007
We're pleased to announce that our brand positioning campaign for our friends Prontaprint has won them the 'Best Overall Marketing Campaign Award' at this year's Franchise Marketing Awards. These awards are held in recognition of the industryÂ’s most innovative and effective marketing campaigns for products, services and franchisee recruitment. Judged by an independent panel of experts, they recognise and reward companies that have raised their public awareness and, as a result, achieved sustainable growth. We are thrilled to have helped push Prontaprint to the forefront of their market. Click here to find out what we did for them.
Bank on it
14 March 2007
Do you really want a coffee and a sofa when you're trying to pay in some cheques? A question posed by Jim in this week's Design Week magazine article about designing for the banking sector. Jim talks about the NatWest identity and brand that The Partners developed, which still remains a leader on the highstreet today. Download the article here.
Design Week Awards 2007
14 March 2007
Following sucesses at D&AD and New York Festivals, our Casa Loreto olive oil packaging completed a hat-trick by being a finalist in this year's Design Week Awards. Congratulations to everyone that worked so hard on this job. If you want to find out more about our Casa Loreto olive oil packaging, head over to the 'Our work' tab where you should be able to find a case study on the job.
Great design wins awards
7 March 2007
Our WPP Branding, Identity and Design annual (aka 'Great Design Speaks For Itself'), won another gong this week; this time in the first annual Howard Smith Paper awards. The judges said the annual was, "...a vibrant and skillful piece of work, printed with a lot of care and attention." A growing list of our awards can be found on the 'About us' tab of our website.
Putting the stag out to pasture
16 February 2007
After ten years, The Partners have finally 'axed' the House of Fraser's stag that had become an icon in every town and city nationwide. The new identity features a contemporary and pared down logotype, which will be applied throughout the group’s 60 stores nationwide, across storefronts, packaging, advertising, promotional material and online. A series of contemporary colourways have been introduced to create an upmarket and stylish feel.
The Partners new Creative Director
14 February 2007
We're pleased to announce the promotion of one of our most talented designers, Jack Renwick, to the role of Creative Director and Team Leader. Congratulations Jack!
Command P
3 January 2007
The Partners has recently rejuvenated one of the high street's leading print-on-demand specialists, Prontaprint. Find out what we did for them here.
Totally London?
13 December 2006
In this month's copy of Creative Review, Greg joins a panel of leading designers and opinion-formers to discuss the latest campaign aimed at driving tourism back to London. The work in question (designed by advertising agency RKCR/Y&R), features a montage of London attractions, people and culture in an attempt to reflect the capital's broad-reaching ethnic diversity. Find out what Greg and the panel thought about it here.
League tables
6 December 2006
Love them, hate them, they are here. We have leapt to fourth place this year (Design Week survey) so we love them! Also worth a little look are some passionate words from Jim about 'creativity and big groups'. Download a PDF of the article here.
Is premium branding dead?
19 October 2006
In this month's Brand Strategy magazine, our Managing Partner, Jim Prior, discusses the significance of low-cost cool with the arrival of the Starbury brand by US basketballer Stephon Marbury, currently raising a retail storm in the US. To find out more about Brand Strategy please go to www.brandstrategy.co.uk/. Download a PDF of the full article here.
Wild about The Partners
19 October 2006
The Partners had four pieces of work shortlisted at this year's Design Week Benchmark Awards, and won a commendation for our retail promotion for Saks Fifth Avenue, Wild About Cashmere. Other shortlisted projects include our branding of Davidoff Premium tobacco lines, the rebrand of UCL, and our immensely successful brand communications work for The National Gallery.
UNDESIGN - the debate
29 September 2006
This week we hosted our UNDESIGN DEBATE with a panel of some of the design worlds’ greatest experts: Deyan Sudjic (Director, Design Museum) Paul Priestman (Creative Director, Priestman Goode) and Patrick Burgoyne (Editor, Creative Review) chaired by our very own Jim Prior. Many wise words were shared, tricky questions raised (together with the odd glass) and you will be pleased to learn that most of the world's problems have now been solved. An edited transcript has been posted on Creative Review's blog found here.
Gold win at New York Festivals
25 September 2006
This week we found out that our retail promotion for Saks Fifth Avenue, Wild About Cashmere, won a Gold World Medal at the prestigious International Advertising Awards, presented by the New York Festivals. Our brand identity for The National Gallery was also awarded a Bronze and our Casa Loreto olive oil packaging was a finalist. More information on all these projects can be found within the 'Our Work' section.
See the full press release here.
Imagine a world without design
18 September 2006
Between 18th - 29th September as part of The London Design Festival, The Partners is hosting an exhibition called UNDESIGN where you can experience a world from which design has been removed. See the full press release here.
The Partners rebuild Chesterton
4 September 2006
Chesterton International, the 200-year-old premium property agents, has today launched a rejuvenated brand positioning and identity, recently completed by The Partners.
See the full press release here.
Welcome Martin!
1 August 2006
We pleased to announce that Martin Rowlatt joined The Partners in July 2006 as a strategic consultant. Following six years in various roles at brand consultancy Interbrand, Martin was formerly a partner at brand change and development start-up Onesixtyfourth and has also spent several years as an independent consultant. His full biography can be found in the 'People' section of the 'About Us' tab.