PR company plans new growth in digital sector

Apr 2 2009 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

THE region’s biggest PR and marketing agency has revealed plans for exponential growth in the digital sector after winning a six-figure online support contract and taking on a number of tech-savvy staff.

Newcastle’s Robson Brown says its digital team has quadrupled its turnover in the last 12 months after securing a string of new contracts and, despite current market turbulence, predicts further growth this year.

Most recently the firm won a six-figure deal with Winn Solicitors to provide digital support, including the creation of a viral marketing campaign to attract new clients.

As it looks to add to its current list of online clients, which includes Newcastle Building Society, Benfield Motor Group and Newcastle Science City, the company has taken on two more staff.

Computing studies graduate Peter Wilson comes in as an experienced web developer, having provided online solutions to Greggs, North East clothing firm Barbour and law firm Ward Hadaway, amongst others.

Following a successful career in London working for a number of high-profile agencies, Greg Viercant also joins as a web designer.

He has been responsible for creating digital designs for rock band Coldplay, fashion brand Diesel, British Airways and technology group Sony Ericsson.

Mr Viercant said: “Robson Brown has a reputation that is second to none in regards to creativity, which is why I was keen to join the team here.”

Robson Brown’s digital director Paul Asensio said the company had handpicked the best of the UK’s digital talent to strengthen its reputation as a national hub for successful creative campaigns. He also said the company was increasingly targeting digital revenues as it preparers to steer a course through the choppy waters ahead.

“In just 12 months we’ve seen our team grow in size and have quadrupled our turnover.

“Digital is a cost-effective medium providing high engagement and accurate campaign measurement through a range of metrics.

“An attractive proposition for companies moving into turbulent times that still require a return on investment, this is where digital can rise to the challenge.”