MediaMix: BBC Worldwide, Apadmi, SKV, Bird, and more
BBC Worldwide Showcase, the world’s largest international television market hosted by a single distributor, will take place at the Arena and Convention Centre in Liverpool from February 24.
Some 700 TV buyers from around the world are expected at the event which will mark the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who and showcase the natural history series Africa.
BBC Worldwide, the corporation’s commercial arm, is the largest distributor of TV programming outside of the US.
Steve Macallister, president and managing director of sales and distribution at BBC Worldwide, said: “In another record-breaking year, we welcome our largest number of buyers to Liverpool – up by 10% on last year – and we have two brilliant programme-themed evenings planned.
“Africa is certain to capture the imagination of our delegates as it has the British public over the past few weeks. What a perfect opportunity to also celebrate the world’s longest running sci fi series with Doctor Who in its 50th year, at this biggest ever Showcase. We have a great slate of new titles across every genre and are delighted to be hosting some superb on screen talent over the four days of the event.”
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MANCHESTER-based app developer Apadmi has designed an app aimed at investors for Manchester pension specialist AJ Bell.
Apadmi teamed up with financial software specialists JHC to develop mFIGARO which lets Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) investors to check their portfolio.
Chief executive Garry Partington said: “It’s great to see the financial services sector embracing mobile technology in this way and it demonstrates how apps are permeating every aspect of leisure, business and commerce.
“The mFIGARO mobile software performs all the major functions that you find on the desktop Figaro system, but puts your whole portfolio in the palm of your hand. This is what attracted AJ Bell to the concept, and their new Sippdeal app is a great example of mFIGARO’s potential.
“This is only the start for mFIGARO and we’re excited to see how the system will evolve to deliver advanced and reliable services to the financial world, further demonstrating just how important mobile is across an increasing number of sectors today.”
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MARKETING communications firm, The Raft, has rebranded following its merger with branding specialist Cirrus last year.
Wilmslow-based The Raft, which works for Bupa, Breville, Brother, Redrow and Thomas Cook, is now operating under the Cirrus name.
The two businesses already share the same office and are working closely on clients such as Shop Direct Group and National Nuclear Laboratory.
Carol Smith, former managing director of The Raft and now managing director, brand communications at Cirrus, said: “By bringing our expertise together, we’re are now in the best possible position to think about brands from both inside and out, through leaders, employees and customers. It’s these critical connections that set us apart and enable us to deliver more rounded brand thinking and more engaging brand communications.
“Since merging with Cirrus, we are increasingly working with clients who want to take a more holistic approach to building brands. For The Raft, the logical next step was to align our two brands under the same Cirrus banner.”
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MANCHESTER-based PR agency Bird Consultancy has secured an account win with BoxNation, Britain’s first dedicated boxing channel.
BoxNation, which has promoter Frank Warren as one of its shareholders, has appointed Bird to raise the profile of the new channel and its boxers, and boost subscriptions.
BoxNation, launched in September 2011, is the first ever channel dedicated to serving the UK’s fight and sports fans and is available to all Sky and Virgin Media customers for £10 per month. It is also available online and through an app for smart devices.
Bird’s director of PR Karen Monks said: “We are delighted to welcome BoxNation to our portfolio, it’s an account that offers many opportunities and we’re looking forward to embarking on some fun and exciting PR projects with them and the boxers.”
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SKV Communications has been hired by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) to promote the holiday destination in the UK.
Manchester-based SKV will be working with Goldmine Advertising in India to set up roadshows in England and Scotland to showcase what the state can offer.
Geraldine Vesey, director of SKV, said: “We are working with tour operators, travel agents and media in Scotland and England to put on roadshows in Indian venues in these countries.
“We will be offering authentic Goan food and entertainment in environments where guests can find out more about this stunning destination. We have extensive travel PR experience and are enjoying the challenge of working with the team in India to activate their campaign over here.”
