BBC doc

Paul Dacre steps down, Twitter reacts

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Paul Dacre has announced he is to step down from his role of editor of the Daily Mail, after 26 years in charge. The media giant will become chairman and editor in chief of Associated Newspapers (which changed its name to DMG Media), but this move still marks the end of an era in British news.

It’s difficult to know where to begin when talking about Dacre, his success as an editor is unquestionable but his role in society has often been contentious and many are celebrating the news of his departure.

Dacre used his announcement to staff to talk about the success of the Mail under his editorship, the paper’s victories – from the famous Stephen Lawrence front page to the recent anti-plastics campaign – and the whole team’s effort in the ‘battle for freedom of expression against those who seek to impose statutory regulation of the press’.

Lord Rothermere, who owns the publisher but has always given Dacre editorial freedom, said, ‘Paul is, quite simply, the greatest Fleet Street Editor of his generation’.

The BBC’s media editor, Amol Rajan, who seemingly broke the story last night, said, ‘Paul Dacre was the last of his kind’.

On Twitter the reaction was more mixed.

His support of the current Conservative Government and its leader Theresa May has also been highlighted by many, including Matt Chorley in his hugely influential Red Box email. Chorley wrote: ‘Theresa May reads The Times because she likes the Sudoku. She reads the Daily Mail because she likes to know what Britain thinks. Well, her idea of Britain. And really it’s about what Paul Dacre, her loudest cheerleader, thinks.’

Chorley also quotes an unnamed government source who text him saying ‘Bad news for Theresa. Dacre’s the last person in the country who thought she was any good’. Ouch.

As for Dacre’s replacement, there are many contenders being touted by the press, from The Sun’s Tony Gallagher and the Telegraph’s Chris Evans to the Mail on Sunday’s Georgie Greig:

What hasn’t been overlooked is one particular outside choice. Before Paul Dacre became editor of the Mail, he had a brief stint editing the Evening Standard. Someone else who is currently a short period into his editorship of the Evening Standard is George Osborne. Though suggestions he wanted the job were quickly denied by the man himself:

Dacre will step down in November, before his 70th birthday.

David Evans

Top Men’s Fashion Blog: Grey Fox

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Grey Fox is the ‘mature search for style’, written by David Evans. The blog recently ranked in the Top 10 UK Men’s Fashion Blogs and has been a stalwart of the male fashion blogging scene for years. With fashion and menswear content for all men, Grey Fox has built a loyal following and provides a unique perspective in the blogosphere.

We spoke to David about the origins of men’s style, how shoes can make or break an outfit and the amazing campaigns he’s collaborated on.

Grey-FoxWhat makes your blog unique?
I’m a men’s style blogger aged 63. The blog started as my search for style as an older man. There are few enough men’s style blogs and even fewer that cater for the man over forty (in fact I only know a very small handful). However, while my main readership is over 40 on the blog, on Instagram it’s aged between 25 and 35! I describe a fairly classic menswear style and, at the moment, that appeals to all ages.

Will Men’s Fashion ever catch up with Women’s Fashion?
I suspect that men’s fashion has already overtaken women’s in terms of amounts being spent. Some studies show that men spend monthly more than women and it’s certainly the case that the men’s clothing market is growing twice as fast as women’s. Interest in menswear is huge; I see this on my blog and social media.

Who is your favourite ever designer?
I don’t really have one as I like to find inspiration from many directions. Having said that, I love what New & Lingwood and Oliver Spencer are doing and there are many small menswear businesses here in the UK that deserve our attention, such as SEH Kelly, Marwood, Lamler and others.

What up-and-coming designers will be tomorrow’s stars?
Again, I can’t really say. The world of men’s style is different from the more volcanic fashion world where names come and (usually) go, and are quickly forgotten. My interest is in the durability of classic styles inspired by Savile Row and Jermyn Street but which includes many newer and younger brands.

What’s the best fashion show for men?
Oliver Spencer always do a great show at London Fashion Week Men’s, but looking more widely at the world of menswear, Pitti Uomo in Florence is, for me at the moment, the greatest display of men’s fashions and style. While it is largely Italian, there are some 100 plus British brands there this June and it’s a great place to see the best-dressed men in the world. I’d love to see something similar in London where there is so much creativity and, arguably, the whole concept of men’s style originated.

Grey FoxShoes or watch?
Shoes can make or break a look. Poor ones can ruin the best outfit, while good shoes can lift a mundane look. I do like a good watch though – a vintage example adds a real touch of style.

Beards: in or out?
Men should wear what they like – it’s a question of style, not fashion.

What one thing should PRs/brands know about you?
I represent a demographic that is growing fast. Over fifties are wanting to spend time and money on style, holidays and consumer goods. They are responsible for nearly half of consumer spending and brands ignore them at their peril.

What are the best campaigns/collaborations you’ve worked on?
Driving a Maserati in Northern Ireland recently for Maserati UK. Designing a summer collection with Alexandra Wood. Driving a Range Rover Velar in Norway. Having hats made by Taylor Red Millinery – there are so many which have been great fun.

What other blogs do you read?
It probably sounds terrible, but I don’t. Time is precious and I prefer to follow on Instagram where I follow all the main menswear Instagrammers. One blog I do like to follow is That’s Not My Age in which Alyson Walsh talks about style for older women.

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David Davis

Political Headlines – David Davis, NHS funding and University Diversity

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Today’s Political Headlines include David Davis in open rebellion against Theresa May, Hunt’s significant increase to the NHS budget, uni fees cut if diversity doesn’t increase and MPs call for more women to give evidence to select committees. 

David Davis in ‘open rebellion’ against Prime Minister
The Daily Telegraph claims that Brexit Secretary David Davis is in ‘open rebellion’ against the Prime Minister and is refusing to front her plans for a customs backstop in order to avoid a hard border in Northern Ireland. While Downing Street has insisted that this will be ‘time-limited’, no end date has been included in details of the plan sent to the EU. The Times claims that Eurosceptic cabinet ministers are accusing Theresa May of deception, with remain-supporting ministers being shown the plans days before they were given them.

Hunt confirms ‘significant increase’ to NHS budget
Speaking to The Guardian, Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Hunt has revealed that Theresa May will announce a ‘significant increase’ to the NHS’s budget when it celebrates its 70th birthday in July. He also admitted that he is unlikely to meet his target of 5,000 more GPs in England by 2020, that ‘patient safety in the NHS is still deeply flawed’ and that Brexit had contributed towards NHS staff shortages.

Regulator warns universities that he’ll cut tuition fees if diversity doesn’t improve
Writing for The Daily Telegraph, Sir Michael Barber, chair of the Office for Students, has warned that universities which don’t improve diversity will see their tuition fees cut by a third. However, Professor Graham Virgo, vice-chancellor of the University of Cambridge, has instead that his institution will not give black and minority ethnic applicants ‘special treatment’, despite criticism from Universities Minister Sam Gyimah.

MPs call for more women to give evidence to select committees
The BBC says that the House of Commons Liaison Committee has called for more women to give evidence to select committees, after it found that just 33% of witnesses in the last year were female. A target of reaching 40% female ‘discretionary witnesses’ (i.e. not ministers or senior officials) has been set for the end of this parliament.

Javid promises ‘fairer, more compassionate’ immigration regime
The Guardian reports that Home Secretary Sajid Javid told Parliament’s Joint Human Rights Committee that he wants a ‘fairer, more compassionate’ immigration system. He admitted that the treatment of those affected by the Windrush scandal was not ‘personal enough and not sympathetic enough’ and that things had gone ‘profoundly wrong’.

Gove attacks ‘crony capitalists’
The Daily Mail says that Michael Gove, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary, has called for a crackdown on ‘crony capitalists’ who have ‘rigged the system’. He called for the tax system to be changed to encourage investment and for bosses’ bonuses to be curbed. He also criticised quantitative easing, which he claimed had made the wealthy wealthier.

1.5m Britons living in destitution
The Daily Mirror carries details of a report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation that reveals that over 1.5m British people are living in destitution. The charity has warned that social security policies are leading to destitution ‘by design’ and has called for changes to the system, including to the use of Universal Credit sanctions.

Archbishop of Canterbury calls for higher taxes
According to The Daily Telegraph, Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has called on the Government to find the ‘courage’ to increase taxes to fund public services, including the NHS. He also called on the Government to increase borrowing, saying that interest rates showed that there was ‘little reason to be so afraid’ of doing so.

Vuelio Political Services are here to assist you. Find out how.

MENSWEARSTYLE

Craig Landale – the number one men’s fashion blogger

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Craig Landale continues to dominate the men’s fashion and lifestyle scene with his blog MenswearStyle. Topping the Men’s Lifestyle ranking and winning two awards at the Vuelio Blog Awards 2017 – Best Men’s Lifestyle Blog and Best UK Blog – now Craig has been named number one in the Top 10 Men’s Fashion Blogs.

We spoke to Craig about his favourite designers, working collaboratively on experiential PR campaigns and why he no longer reads the competition.

What makes your blog unique?
MenswearStyle is unique because it brings an informative but light-hearted voice to the menswear industry, covering not just the high street and high designers but start-ups and crowdfunded brands too. We bring an authentic and honest outlook to current trends as well as bringing focus to important movements such as sustainable fashion. The blog isn’t the only way of consuming our publication as we also have a Podcast and Street Style gallery, as well as a shop which lists thousands of products from online retailers.

Will Men’s Fashion ever catch up with Women’s Fashion?
I don’t think men will ever consume fashion in the same way women do. The average woman is more inclined to buy for the season and dispose of prior season’s garments, whereas the average man is looking to buy higher quality items with an interesting story that is expertly manufactured and will last years to come. The number of designers, collaborations and developments within the industry is certainly gaining traction though.

MenswearStyle

Who is your favourite ever designer?
Oliver Spencer is my favourite. The style of clothing he makes basically sums up my taste in clothing. It’s relaxed, understated and everyday comfortable wearable pieces that fit really well. I always look forward to his fashion shows each season in London too. I like how he uses non-model guys (usually his friends) mixed in with the usual runway models too.

What up-and-coming designers will be tomorrow’s stars?
That’s a tough one, If I knew this I’d be in a different job but I’ve recently interview Genevieve Sweeney for MenswearStyle and I really like her British-made knitwear. Her designs are so interesting, yet not too overbearing or trend-led. Definitely a brand to watch for the coming AW18 season.

What’s the best fashion show for men?
I always prefer catwalk shows where the garments are wearable. Some designers go for the theatrical element to a show and that’s ok, but I personally don’t like it. I love menswear for what it is and I like to see it being worn in the way it is intended to be in normal life. In fact, when I think back to my favourite ever runway show, it was back when LFWM was LCM and Hackett put on a show with a live orchestra and it gave me goose bumps. It made me proud to be working within the British menswear industry.

Menswear Style

Shoes or watch?
I really like to wear a good watch and I find them a bit trickier to buy compared to shoes. With shoes I’d always suggest a British made Brogue or Oxford as an essential, but watches are completely evolving. I really like what Shinola and Uniform Wares are doing at the moment.

Beards: in or out?
They’re still in and show no signs of going anywhere just yet. Even in high-summer you should expect to still see them. However, they will be trimmed down with reduced thickness to avoid being itchy and uncomfortable.

What one thing should PRs/brands know about you?
I run the UK’s best blog according to Vuelio and I’m also a CIM qualified marketeer. Not only do I love menswear but I like interiors and homeware too.

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What are the best campaigns/collaborations you’ve worked on?
Over the six years of running MenswearStyle there have been many, but a few recent standouts are Gore-Tex where I headed out to Berlin to see their most recent developments in garment technology, Volvo where I test-drove their new XC40 car in Barcelona and Slaters where I styled two partywear inspired outfits for a London photoshoot and was interviewed for their in-store magazine.

What other blogs do you read?
I’m actually trying a new thing at the moment where I don’t look at my competition. I had read that if you pay too much attention to the competition you start to replicate them and you lose your creativity and all-important unique angle that gives you your difference and sets you apart from the crowd. I seem much happier for doing it and an unnecessary pressure has been lifted as a result.

Craig and his award-winning blog are both listed on the Vuelio Influencer Database along with thousands of other bloggers, vloggers, journalists and opportunities.

Labour leader

Political Headlines – Labour on Brexit, Heathrow expansion, Islamophobia and NHS funding

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Today’s Political Headlines include Labour’s new single market proposal, Heathrow expansion plans, accusations of Islamophobia against the Conservatives and raising National Insurance to fund the NHS. 

Labour proposes new single market Brexit amendment
The Times says that Labour is proposing a new amendment to the EU (Withdrawal) Bill, calling for ‘full access’ to the single market and ‘shared institutions and regulations’. The paper says that while this would be ‘the softest possible Brexit’ outside membership of the single market, the proposal has left pro-EU MPs ‘unhappy’ and the EU ‘baffled’. Meanwhile, The Sun claims that Exiting the European Union Secretary David Davis has ‘threatened to humiliate Theresa May’ by asking the Cabinet to overrule a decision not to publish a white paper before a key summit later this month.

Heathrow expansion plans announced
As the Financial Times reports, the Government has put forward the final plan for a third runway at Heathrow, and it will be voted on within the next 21 days. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has announced £2.6bn in compensation for local residents and that planning permission would only be granted if air quality obligations were met. The paper expects the proposal to pass ‘fairly easily’ as it is supported by the Conservative and SNP leadership and many Labour MPs. Boris Johnson, who has opposed the proposal, is expected to be overseas.

Conservative Muslim Forum chair accuses party of not taking action on Islamophobia
According to the BBC, Mohammed Amin, chair of the Conservative Muslim Forum, has accused the party of failing to take action on Islamophobia and called for an independent inquiry. He said that the party is seen as ‘anti-Muslim’ and had not taken ‘decisive action’.

Most voters back National Insurance increase to fund NHS
The Mirror reports that a new poll has found that 82% of voters would be willing to pay 1p more in National Insurance if the money went directly to the NHS. The poll also finds that voters are more likely to back the party which pledges extra funds for health and social care at the next election.

Westminster should not ‘impose its will’ on Northern Ireland, Bradley says
The BBC says that Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley has said that while she would personally like the abortion law in Northern Ireland to be changed, Westminster should not ‘impose its will’ and the matter ‘should be decided by the people of Northern Ireland’.

Deradicalisation programme found to be ineffective
The Times reports that a study for the Home Office has found that over 95% of deradicalisation programmes are ineffective. The study by the Behavioural Insights Team examined 33 schemes, mostly part of Prevent, and found that just two were effective, while some were counterproductive. The projects had claimed success rates of over 90%.

Poorer people eat fatty food for ‘comfort, solace and pleasure’, Gove says
The Daily Telegraph says that Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Michael Gove told the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Environment that poorer people eat food which isn’t good for them because it gives them ‘comfort, solace and pleasure’. He said that the Government needed to be ‘more proactive’ and ‘more than a nudge’ was needed.

Military secondments to the EU will not be renewed
The Financial Times reports that the EU has told UK military staff that their secondments to Brussels will not be renewed after Brexit, while talks on security and defence co-operation have ‘proved much harder than expected’. The paper also reports that a threat by the UK to obstruct the procurement of the Galileo satellite navigation system has been neutralised after the EU agreed to take on the European Space Agency’s liabilities.

Vuelio Political Services are dedicated to providing custom political intelligence for clients. Find out more.

Anthony McGrath

Spotlight on top men’s fashion blog Clothes Make The Man

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Anthony McGrath is the editor-in-chief of Clothes Make The Man, which was recently ranked in the Top 10 UK’s Men’s Fashion Blogs. Aimed at the ‘ordinary man’, Clothes Make The Man helps its devoted audience make well-informed sartorial choices.

We caught up with Anthony, who told us about the genius of Tom Ford, the return of the tasche and working with PRs.

What makes your blog unique?
We answer the needs and wants of our reader, catering to them and ALWAYS thinking what they would want to read and know about. We offer a unique, knowledgeable, realistic and true perspective on menswear.

Will Men’s Fashion ever catch up with Women’s Fashion?
Sorry to burst that bubble, but no, women’s fashion and trends move so much faster than menswear and we mustn’t forget well-made menswear tends to be more expensive, generally, than womenswear. We are fighting a losing battle here lads.

Who is your favourite ever designer?
Tom Ford. Undisputedly, undeniably, a true genius

What up-and-coming designers will be tomorrow’s stars?
Ohh good question! I think James Long is already on his way. Likewise, Christopher Raeburn isn’t faring too badly.

What’s the best fashion show for men?
Now the best fashion show I’ve ever been to was the last Tom Ford show for Gucci; the atmosphere was literally electric!

Shoes or watch?
Mmm tough one. I can’t resist either to be honest; two of my biggest weaknesses are shoes and watches.

Beards: in or out?
Out, sorry. I mean it is up to the individual’s choice but beard are a bit Zzzzzz. Although, I hear a re-make of Magnum PI is in the making so maybe the question will be tasches: in or out?

What one thing should PRs/brands know about you?
I’m organised so approach me in time.

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What are the best campaigns/collaborations you’ve worked on?
Ahh everyone I’ve worked has been great or I wouldn’t have worked on them. It has to be enjoyable.

What other blogs do you read?
When I have time I really enjoy catching up on blogs like The Chic Geek and The Style King.

Anthony McGrath and Clothes Make The Man are both listed on the Vuelio Influencer Database along with thousands of other bloggers, vloggers, journalists and opportunities.

brexit headline

Political Headlines – EU Withdrawal Bill, Northern Rail and Heathrow Airport

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Today’s Political Headlines include amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill, Northern Rail chaos, and plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport. 

MPs to vote on amendments to EU Withdrawal Bill as Brexit white paper is postponed
The Times reports that the Government has scheduled votes by MPs on the House of Lords’ amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill for next Tuesday, giving it a week to win over potential rebels. The paper adds that the twelve backbenchers who are threatening to rebel on customs arrangements doubt that the Government will be able to reach a satisfactory compromise. The Financial Times claims that the Government has abandoned plans to publish a white paper on the future UK-EU relationship ahead of this month’s European Council meeting and it will now be published at a later date.

May under pressure over Northern rail chaos
The Guardian says that Theresa May is coming under further pressure to act on the rail chaos in Northern England, as 25 newspapers across the region united to call for an emergency summit to find a solution and a review of rail franchising. Facing questions from MPs yesterday, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling announced an inquiry into the problems.

Heathrow plans to be approved by cabinet sub-committee
The BBC reports that the Cabinet’s economic sub-committee is expected to approve plans for a third runway at Heathrow today. The plans will then be sent to full cabinet, with MPs expected to vote on them in ‘the coming weeks’. Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has previously said that he would ‘lie down in front of bulldozers’ to stop the proposal.

Government announces action plan for carers
The Daily Mail says that the Government is to announce a series of measures to support informal carers today. The care action plan, published by six Government departments, includes flexible work hours, paid ‘carers’ leave’, and emotional support, and is being led by care minister Caroline Dinenage.

Government sells shares in RBS at £2.1bn loss
The Financial Times reports that the Government has sold a 7.7% stake in Royal Bank of Scotland, making a loss of £2.1bn, and that further shares could be sold later this year. Chancellor Philip Hammond has argued that public ownership is a drag on the firm, but as the paper adds, both Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable have criticised the Government for making a loss on the sale.

Government considers investment in Welsh nuclear plant
The Times reports that the Government is considering investing billions of pounds in a new nuclear plant in Wales, which could deliver cheaper electricity than Hinkley Point. Sources suggest that the Government could invest £1-2bn in the Wylfa plant, near Anglesey, with equal investments by Hitachi and the Japanese government, with the rest of the £15bn cost met by Government-guaranteed loans.

Committee criticises aid spending in China
The Daily Telegraph says that the Commons International Development Committee has released a critical report on aid spending in China. The committee warns that spending aid on projects to develop the Chinese film industry and reduce Chinese children’s salt intake risks ‘undermining faith in UK aid’.

Brown calls for NI increase to fund NHS
According to the Daily Mirror, Gordon Brown has made a ‘dramatic intervention’ in the debate about NHS funding, calling for a 1p increase in National Insurance to help meet funding pressures. He has warned that the service is currently in ‘mortal danger’.

Vuelio Political Services are available for custom political intelligence. Find out more.

vloggers

Why now is the right time for a blogging association

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This is a guest post from Tim Liew, blogger at Slouching Towards Thatcham, about the need for a blog association. Have your own opinions about this? Want to write a guest post? Email Jake O’Neill or tweet us @Vuelio.

At a time of massive growth and increasing complexity, now more than ever blogging needs its own trade association.

The world of blogging has changed immeasurably – and mostly for the better – since I published my first post 11 years ago. Improved technology. The rise of social media. The explosion in influencer marketing and paid opportunities.

All of this has driven a much more professional approach to blogging. It is no longer the domain of hobbyists sharing information and opinions. It is now a booming industry in its own right, with thousands of practitioners earning a full or part-time salary from content creation.

The most successful bloggers and vloggers are now brands in their own right. Louise Pentland’s beauty and lifestyle YouTube channel Sprinkleofglitter has 2.6 million subscribers. That’s about the same number of people who tune in to watch University Challenge on TV every week. Sarah Turner (The Unmumsy Mum), Katie Kirby (Hurrah for Gin) and Matt Coyne (Man vs. Baby) lead a vanguard of parent bloggers whose books have topped the Sunday Times bestseller charts. From sports to gaming and food to politics, there is a blog – make that hundreds of blogs – for every niche.

Blogging and bloggers have gone truly professional, influencing people far beyond their loyal readerships and being rewarded by brands desperate to reach these audiences as traditional broadcast media continues to decline. It’s no surprise that a growing number of aspiring influencers want a piece of the action.

As investment in bloggers and influencers explodes, so does scrutiny and regulation. Bloggers have long wrestled with how best to disclose their relationship with brands who want sponsored posts or to place pre-written content or web links. More recently, the arrival of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has caused considerable confusion about ensuring compliant collection and use of personal data. With further ePrivacy legislation still to come, the regulatory environment is only going to become more complex.

Now most bloggers are sole traders who don’t have access to expert legal resources in the way that big companies do. So, when it comes to GDPR compliance or chasing a brand for late payment, bloggers are generally reliant on the knowledge and expertise of other bloggers to point them in the right direction. Google ‘GDPR for bloggers’ and you will discover hundreds of posts and articles from bloggers and marketing experts. Some are very good; some are ill-informed; many contradict one another. And there is frequently no correlation between a blogger being well-known and their factual accuracy.

So, who do you trust?

In a world that is changing rapidly and becoming ever more complex, the need for a single, impartial and trusted source of advice and best practice is greater than ever. For bloggers to be respected as professionals, it is vital that we know how to operate professionally. There are too many negative consequences in terms of bad publicity and financial penalties for us not to do so.

I work on both sides of the blogging fence. I’m an experienced blogger but by day I’m also a social media manager working with brand marketers and PR agencies on influencer programmes. I see lots of good practice but also some that is distinctly unprofessional, if not illegal. The individual interests of bloggers, brands and agencies alike would benefit from a body whose role it is to look after our collective interests, raise professional standards and support new entrants.

For our industry to survive and thrive, we cannot continue to rely on our informal, inexpert half-truths. Proper help and support is critical. And that’s why we need a blogging association, now more than ever.

Webinar

How to improve your influencer relations

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Influencer relations is a vital skill for the modern PR professional. Influencers are often thought of as ‘new media’ – bloggers, vloggers and Instagrammers, but they can also be journalists, editors and broadcasters – anyone we work with who influences their audience is an ‘influencer’.

What traditional influencers have, though, is an industry and organisation behind them and their work. With established practices, and rules and codes to follow, collaborations with traditional influencers are generally straightforward. The rise of bloggers has brought new methods of collaboration to the industry and with it, uncertainty over what rules should be followed.

How to Improve Your Influencer Relations was our recent webinar that aimed to make these rules simple. With guest presenters Anne-Marie Lacey, managing director of Filament PR and Debbie Sharratt, independent PR practitioner and blogger at My Boys Club, we looked at the different rules that exist for new ‘influencers’ (from the CAP Code to Google SEO), and how to easily follow them for both bloggers AND PRs.

The webinar recording is now online, check it out here, to find out:

  • How to use the ASA guidelines, CAP code, Google rules and social media secrets
  • What paid-for content really means and when you need to disclose
  • How ethical relationships can boost your brand’s reputation and ROI
  • What to do if your influencers break the rules
Train

How integration improved Greater Anglia’s PR

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Public relations has never been an industry that relies on one skill set or a single speciality. As the PRCA’s recent census showed, PR and communications covers a vast array of disciplines from reputation management and strategy planning to writing articles, SEO and sales promotion.

Your role is increasingly diverse, so the last thing you need is lots of different platforms when you want to manage everything in one place. That’s why Vuelio is fully integrated software to cater for all your needs, whether it’s finding new influencers to build relationships with, monitoring your coverage (and automatically linking it to your distribution), creating reports and proving how awesome you are or managing relationships with the press, clients and public.

True integration takes the hard work out of PR. But don’t take our word for it – Juliette Maxam, media manager at Greater Anglia, told us how Vuelio’s integrated platform has made their PR ‘seamless’.

Find out more about integrated software

Greater Anglia

The problem
Before Vuelio, we were collating press coverage manually, reading everything individually and producing our own analysis – it was a hugely time-consuming process. Now, Vuelio has freed up our time so we can focus on the PR we want to do.

The solution
Vuelio has given us to ability to do a number of things on one platform.

We distribute press releases, which makes things much easier to send out, and the monitoring allows us to track our coverage back to the releases – it’s seamless. The distribution is also great for sending out pictures and video, and allows us to see who is opening and not opening releases, so we can better manage our follow up.

One of the best features is the media analysis and reporting – it is so flexible and allows us to drill down into so many different topic areas and analyse enquiries. Also, the charts are presented clearly in the graphic dashboard and we can customise different parts. So, with things like sentiment, we can tweak individual articles, which is much quicker than having to do each one manually (like we did before).

The reporting function is useful for a number of reasons, from when we’re internally asked how well a particular release or campaign has done, for example the new range of trains, to creating regular reports for different teams. And, because we can tag all our coverage, it allows us to easily report on different areas, like competitors.

We also use Vuelio to log press enquiries, giving us a record of what we did in the past. The media team finds it particularly useful as they can easily see what (and when) previous enquiries were made.

And we use Canvas, which we really like – it allows us to quickly and easily send a single link out with all our coverage in one place.

Joining Vuelio
With Vuelio, everything is all in one place, and everything is connected. We can see how much coverage we’re getting and for what releases, which will ultimately make planning future campaigns more successful.

The whole process of joining Vuelio, from our first point of contact, was really good. The Vuelio team worked really hard, especially as I feel like we were really demanding with what we wanted, including good value for money. The set up was also great; one of our requirements has been face-to-face customer support and that’s what’s happened – which is really important for us.

Vuelio is a really useful, efficient and smart way of distributing press releases, tracking enquiries and analysing our coverage.

Ready for integrated software? Fill in this form and we’ll be in touch.

Politics on Sunday – Sajid Javid, security, immigration and Northern Ireland

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With Peston on Sunday off air until September, The Andrew Marr Show dominated the Sunday political coverage. The highest profile guest was home secretary, Sajid Javid.

Javid started with the issue that saw off his predecessor, the Windrush scandal. He revealed that 32 of those who have been deported are offenders and he does not want them to come back into the country. Of the 31 that remain, who the Home Office is trying to get into contact with and bring back to the UK, Javid said only seven have been contacted.

When asked about detentions, the Home Secretary said he did not know how many people had been detained but he accepted that people have been detained and made it clear that those who need the help are getting it most urgently. Javid said the first priority was to the people who need documentation right now, second was to those who have been deported and third to those who have been detained.

Javid also spoke about the immigration policy of the Government. He said he is committed to the Conservative manifesto and is committed to getting it to lower sustainable levels. When pushed on whether he is committed to the tens of thousands ambition, Javid said he is committed to the manifesto. Javid made clear he does not like the term ‘hostile environment’ he said it is ‘un-British’ and he prefers the term ‘compliant environment’. Javid said lessons need to be learned from this policy and the hostile environment policy is being reviewed by the Home Secretary.

He also signalled a possible shift in policy by saying he will look at students being counted in the net migration numbers. Marr asked about tier two visas (the visa a foreign doctor would need), he said there are thousands of vacancies for doctors up and down the country and thousands of doctors are being denied visas. Javid again said this is something he will look at.

The Home Secretary said he will be asking for more money for the police, outlining the areas in which demand is rising. Javid said he does not have any commitments from the Chancellor on whether he will get more money or not. He also spoke about the Government’s actions to tackle the terror threat; he said his ‘number one priority will always be to keep our country safe’. He was, of course, asked about Brexit albeit briefly, saying he does not think any of the doom and gloom scenarios presented would come to pass.

Last week the Muslim Council of Britain and Baroness Sayeeda Warsi called for an investigation into Islamophobia in the Conservative party. Javid said the Muslim Council of Britain do not represent Muslims in this country, and that Marr would be hard pressed to find a group of Muslims who feel they are represented by the Council. On their point about Islamophobia in the Conservative party, he replied by saying look at who the Home Secretary is.

Stella Creasy and Andrew Lloyd Webber also appeared on Marr and both spoke about Brexit. Creasy said it does not look as though Brexit is going well and that the public should have a say on the final deal the Government achieve with the EU. Andrew Lloyd Webber said he does not feel as though he could sit in an unelected chamber and vote against the vote of the people. Lloyd Webber, who is a remainer, said the House of Lords has changed a lot over the 20 years he has been a peer.

Creasy also spoke about abortion laws focusing on Northern Ireland, she gave the example that a woman who has been raped and fell pregnant and then got an abortion could face a longer prison sentence than the person who raped her. What Creasy wants is legislation to be repealed as it is outdated and it is stopping people ‘having medical rather than criminal laws about abortion’. Creasy also spoke about abortion on Ridge on Sunday and she was questioned on the claim that she was respecting devolution. Ridge said women in Ireland voted for the decriminalisation of abortion in Ireland so why should politicians in Westminster decide what is right for Northern Ireland. Creasy said the only women in Northern Ireland with a say over abortion in Northern Ireland is Arlene Foster and by repealing the law it does not write a new law for Northern Ireland, it just leaves a gap for legislation to be put into place.

An interview with Arlene Foster was published on Ridge, where she made clear that marriage equality and abortion are devolved issues. Foster also said she has received emails from nationalists and republicans who will now be voting for the DUP as they believe they are the only party that supports the unborn.

Check out our Canvas of all the best coverage from the Sunday Political shows here and find out how to make your own Canvas here.

 

Sajid Javid

Home secretary

Political Headlines – Sajid Javid dominates the news

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Today’s Political Headlines include Sajid Javid’s counter-terror plans, Sajid Javid’s challenge of Government policy and Sajid Javid’s part in the visa cap being lifted on doctors. 

Javid to announce new counter-terror plans
The BBC reports that Home Secretary Sajid Javid is to announce an update to the Government’s counter-terror strategy in a speech today. He will set out plans for MI5 to declassify and share information on citizens suspected of having terrorist sympathies across the Government, local authorities and the police. The Guardian adds that figures from the Sentencing Council show that the police and security services are facing a surge in convicted terrorists released from prison.

Two ministers challenge Government policy
The Times claims that Theresa May’s authority has been ‘dealt a blow’ after two ministers publicly challenged Government policy. Home Secretary Sajid Javid promised to review immigration policy, while Tobias Ellwood, the Minister for Veterans, called for a statute of limitations on offences committed by British troops in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

May planning to lift visa cap on doctors
The Daily Telegraph reports that Theresa May will lift the visa cap on doctors from outside the EU ‘within weeks’, in order to meet the demands of the NHS. According to the paper, discussions have reached a ‘fairly developed stage’ following interventions from Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Home Secretary Sajid Javid.

‘No strong business case’ for diverging from EU regulations, thinktank says
The Guardian says that the thinktank Open Europe, which it claims is one of the ‘closest to Downing Street’ has claimed in a report that there is ‘no strong business case’ for immediately diverging from EU regulations and that an ‘enhanced mutual recognition agreement’ should be agreed between the UK and the EU. The paper also reports that the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has called on MPs of all parties to support amendments to the EU (Withdrawal) Bill put forward by the House of Lords.

May facing rebellion over Heathrow vote
The Daily Telegraph claims that the Prime Minister is facing a rebellion from Boris Johnson and other senior Conservative MPs over Heathrow expansion. Theresa May is reportedly considering imposing a three-line whip on the issue as she is worried that the Government may lose the vote and that allowing a free vote would set a dangerous precedent.

MPs call for companies to disclose climate risks
The Financial Times reports that the Commons Environmental Audit Committee has called on the Government to introduce new rules requiring pension funds and UK-listed companies to disclose climate-related risks. Mary Creagh, the committee’s chair, said that she also wanted pension trustees to ‘have a duty to consider long-term sustainability, not just short-term returns’.

Cross-party group seeks to up pressure over Northern Ireland abortion law
The Guardian reports that a cross-party group of MPs is to increase pressure on the Prime Minister to decriminalise abortion in Northern Ireland by demanding an emergency debate. MPs include Labour’s Stella Creasy and Lib Dem Jo Swinson hope to force the Government to come to the Commons and defend its position.

EU gives UK just weeks to agree dozens of trade deals
According to The Times, the UK will have just a matter of weeks to negotiate trade deals with over 40 countries including Japan and South Korea, as the EU has refused to assist with extending existing trade agreements until the Brexit treaty has legally been signed-off.

Vuelio Political Services are available for custom political intelligence. Find out more.

Five Things you shouldn't have missed

Five Things: Arkady Babcenko, WWW, Madeley vs Williamson, Evening Standard and Roseanne

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This week’s Five Things includes the journalist who did(n’t) die, the world wide web, Madeley vs Williamson, accusations against the Evening Standard and the end of Roseanne.

1. Arkady Babchenko

Ukraine Russia

Arkady Babchenko is the Russian dissident journalist based in Kiev, who was in the news on Tuesday following his ‘assassination’. Less than 24 hours later, Babchenko made a shock appearance on a live TV press conference, to reveal the whole ‘murder’ had been a ruse to ‘foil a Russian assassination plot’. He was particularly apologetic to his wife, who was not in on the ploy and had believed he was dead after finding his bloodied body.

The cold war antics have jarred with modern day practices and Ukraine has been widely condemned for its part in spreading ‘fake news’. Harlem Desir, a representative from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, said: ‘I deplore the decision to spread false information on the life of a journalist. It is the duty of the state to provide correct information to the public.’

Christophe Deloire, head of Reporters Without Borders, said: ‘Reporters Without Borders expresses its sharp indignation on learning of the Ukrainian secret service’s manipulation carried out as part of an information war’.

The good news is that Babchenko is still alive, Ukraine are claiming a victory having made an arrest and the journalist will now live under the country’s protection. The bad news is the continuing spread of misinformation has never been perceived as so damaging to society and this has only made that situation worse.

 

2. Half the world’s online

internet use trends

Mary Meeker, partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers has released her annual report of internet trends. The presentation, made at the Recode conference, covers a vast array of internet-related stats from smartphone prices (down on average), to the importance of immigration to US tech companies. There are 294 slides to the presentation, but one of the biggest stats is that there are now more than 3.6bn internet users; for the first time ever, over half the world’s population is now online. Meeker noted that this may be a problem for internet service companies – ‘growth is harder to find after hitting 50% market penetration’ – but the graph is still showing a steady rise, with no signs of the ominous plateau.

Pew Research Center

And what are all these people doing online? Well, if it’s in the US and they’re a teenager, they’re probably on YouTube. A new survey from the Pew Research Center suggests 85% of teens use YouTube, whereas only 51% use Facebook. This huge decline in Facebook use (down from 71% in 2015), will be painful for the company although it is offset by the rise in popularity of Facebook-owned Instagram, which is used by 72% of teens, up from 52% in 2015.

The biggest problem for Facebook is probably the rise of Snapchat: it is now used by 69% of teens (up from 41% in 2015), and, perhaps more significantly, 35% of teens say they use Snapchat most often (compared with just 10% who use Facebook most often).

 

3. Gavin Williamson is shut up and sent away

Richard Madeley was applauded this week for getting fed up with Gavin Williamson, defence secretary, for not answering his question. Madeley, who was pressing Williamson on his ‘Russia should go away, it should shut up’ remarks, eventually cut Williamson off as the latter made no attempt to acknowledge the question. The next day, Madeley wrote a piece for The Guardian, ‘Cutting short Gavin Williamson was the most popular thing I’ve ever done’, which is hard to argue with.

Check out the full exchange below, and watch to the end for the elephant’s comic timing.

 

4. London Evening Standard accused of selling editorial

London evening standard

The Evening Standard has been accused by Open Democracy of selling positive editorial to a range of companies including Google and Uber. It is allegedly part of the Evening Standard’s London 2020 project, a means to bring in more money via sponsored content and events. Open Democracy says the project has gone one step further and is offering, ‘“favourable” news coverage of the firms involved, with readers unable to differentiate between “news” that is paid-for and other commercially-branded content.’

It also quotes an unnamed senior Starbucks executive who said: ‘Buying positive news coverage is PR death…something you might do in Saudi Arabia, but not here. This wasn’t right for us. We do engage in advertorial but that’s just marketing. We don’t need to buy our reputation.’

If true, this would seriously undermine the Evening Standard’s journalists’ authority and respectability.

The Evening Standard has denied the story. In a statement to The Drum, Jon O’Donnell, managing director at ESI commercial, said the idea ES was ‘selling news’ was ‘grossly inaccurate and a wildly misunderstood interpretation of the London 2020 project.’

He continued: ‘This will, as with all commercial content, be clearly identifiable as such. Under no circumstances have these clients been guaranteed news coverage for their own ends, nor would they ever be. Properly signposted commercial content within an editorial product is an accepted part of the news industry and is nothing new for publishers.’

Few publishers have run with the story and it seems like there’s little real evidence it’s true. Though eagle eyed readers will, of course, now be checking every Uber and Google story in the Evening Standard over the next few weeks to see if they’re fairly, or unfairly, praised.

 

5. Goodbye Roseanne

Roseanne barr

Roseanne Barr hit the news this week after a racist tweet, which she then seemed to defend, led to her hit sitcom ‘Roseanne’ to be cancelled. The star had made a racist comment about Valerie Jarrett, former advisor to Obama. In a victory for decisive crisis comms, ABC, the channel on which Roseanne is broadcast, announced it would not renew a second series as the tweet was ‘repugnant and inconsistent with our values’.

Roseanne, who blamed the racism on sleeping pills (no, really), begged for her job back, both on and off Twitter, but the decision stands. In her defence, the White House accused the entertainment industry of ‘hypocrisy’, suggesting ‘liberal TV stars’ suffered no consequences for saying ‘the most horrible things’ about President Trump. Roseanne is a high-profile Trump supporter and her character on the show also supported Trump.

Unfortunately, suggestions that the show could continue with a replacement for Roseanne are unfounded.

 

 

Something we’ve missed? Let us know on Twitter. 

Mighty gadget

Interview with top tech blog Mighty Gadget

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James Smythe is the man behind the independent tech blog, Mighty Gadget. Recently named in the Top 10 UK Tech Blogs, Mighty Gadget covers everything from TVs to phones and holds exclusive competitions for top tech prizes. We spoke to James about the latest trends in tech, his favourite gadgets and working with excellent PR agencies.

What makes your blog unique?
Mighty Gadget is an independent blog, probably 80%+ of the content is mine. I cover all aspects of tech, but due to being limited to just one writer I tend to cover things that interest me personally. I love the normal stuff like mobile and audio visual, but I also cover as much fitness related technology as possible. I love gadgets that can track all my fitness and health stats!

What’s the best gadget/tech you own?
There are too many to choose from! My current favourite is my Ring doorbell; I get so many review samples delivered and picked up it is very frustrating when I miss the door, so this has helped loads. Apart from that, from a pure use perspective it’s my main PC, I spend all day doing my work on it and I am also a keen PC gamer.

What trends should we expect to see in tech in the near future?
Home Automation appears to be going mainstream now thanks to Alexa and Hue. So, I think we will see these devices becoming commonplace within the home.

From a fitness perspective, I think there is a good chance that Android Wear devices will start to eat into the traditional sports watch market. You already have Garmin, Fitbit, and Suunto integrating smartwatch type features into their watches. Current Android watches have okay fitness tracking, but it is nowhere near the level of Garmin, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we see an Android OS watch in the next year or so that is much more focused on sports with options to pair with all the sensors many athletes use.

Which tech companies are the giants of the future?
I can’t think of any specific company but EVs and automated vehicles appear to be the next big tech revolution that is well underway and we all know the names involved in that industry. Beyond that, I may be biased due to my interest in health, but I think the longevity industry will take off in the next few years. We have already seen a growing trend of people being more conscious about their health; the supplements industry is worth $37 billion-a-year in the US, so I think the next logical step is the trend towards prolonging your life as much as possible. There are already quite a few companies that claim to be able to lengthen telomeres, which are a key component in ageing.

What phone do you have?
Huawei Mate 10 – it is not the latest and greatest, but the camera is superb, and the battery lasts all day, so it is perfect for working on the go.

What’s the best tech invention EVER?
So much to choose from! I would say the Internet; it’s an obvious choice but it’s a technological revolution that has affected everyone in such a large way.

How do you like to work with PRs?
They can be frustrating at times, but I appreciate it is difficult dealing with hundreds of bloggers all pestering you for review samples or event details. I wouldn’t be able to cover as much content as I do without their help.

What’s the best campaign/collaboration you’ve worked on?
I have worked with Acer multiple times over the years at first with Otto Comms & PR, and now with Agent 42. They have always been great to deal with, responsive to all emails, easy deliveries and pickup and well-organised events. This year I had a great time with Qualcomm at MWC which was organised by Hotwire Global; it was a great event, all the PR team that looked after us made things run smoothly with a laid-back schedule that allowed us to explore MWC in our own time.

Reach-the-right-influencers-with-the-Vuelio-media-database

What one thing should PRs know about you?
I live in Blackpool! So, unless you are paying for the train journey, it is unlikely I will be able to attend a press event. It isn’t the best place to live when you are a tech blogger!

What other blogs do you read?
I sometimes stalk rival blogs such as Gadgety News to see if they are reviewing anything I might be able to blag. I am a fan of DC Rainmaker, the same as everyone in the fitness industry; he offers an unrivalled level of detail in his fitness tech reviews. Automated Home is great for home automation stuff. Then OC3D and bit-tech for PC-related news.

James Smythe and Mighty Gadget are both listed on the Vuelio Influencer Database along with thousands of other bloggers, vloggers, journalists and opportunities.

Trade wars

Political Headlines – trade wars, Brexit in Northern Ireland and Conservative ‘hypocrisy’

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Today’s Political Headlines include the trade war over steel, the new Northern Ireland plan, the anti-Brexit tour and Conservatives accused of hypocrisy over Russian donation. 

Fox calls on EU to step back from trade war as Trump imposes steel tariffs
The Times reports that International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has called on the EU to step back from embarking on a trade war with the USA, after President Trump imposed tariffs on imports of steel and aluminium from the EU. Fox said that he wanted ‘to avoid escalation’, but did ‘not rule out’ retaliatory measures or a legal challenge to the US tariffs.

David Davis devises new Brexit plan for Northern Ireland
According to an exclusive in The Sun, David Davis is drawing up a new plan to break deadlock in the Brexit negotiations. He is proposing that Northern Ireland would operate simultaneously under both UK and EU regulations, and that there will be a 10-mile-wide ‘special economic zone’ along the border. A source told the paper that ‘it will be very hard work’ to persuade the DUP and the EU to agree to the proposals.

Left-wing group to launch anti-Brexit tour
The Guardian says that a left-wing pro-EU campaign is to launch a summer tour of British cities. The Left Against Brexit tour will feature Manuel Cortes of the TSSA, Michael Chessum of Momentum, Labour MEP Julie Ward, Labour MP Catherine West, and Green Co-Leader Caroline Lucas. The group is not advocating a second referendum, instead arguing that Corbyn should make the case that a vote for Labour is a vote to stay in the EU.

Conservatives accused of hypocrisy over Russian donation
The Daily Mirror reports that the Conservative Party received a donation from the wife of a former Kremlin aide on the same day that Theresa May blamed Russia for the Salisbury poisoning. Lubov Chernukhin, wife of a former Russian finance minister gave the party a total of £100,000 in two donations in March. Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable and Labour Party chairman Ian Lavery accused the Conservatives of ‘hypocrisy’ over the donation.

Scottish Government faces £1.7bn shortfall
The Guardian reports that the Scottish government faces a £1.7bn shortfall in its finances. The forecast, which covers the next five years, was issued by the independent Scottish Fiscal Commission, which blames reduced wage growth for the projected fall in revenue from income tax. Derek Mackay, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Constitution, said that problem was a consequence of austerity, immigration policy and Brexit.

Lord Lawson denies accusations of hypocrisy
The Daily Telegraph says that Lord Lawson has denied accusations of being a hypocrite after he applied for a French residency card. He said that he was applying for a ‘carte de sejour’ because the French authorities had requested that he do so and that he was not applying for French nationality. Paul Butters of Best for Britain said that Lawson ‘looks like a hypocrite’.

Legatum criticised by Charity Commission over free trade report
The Financial Times reports that the Charity Commission has criticised the Legatum Institute thinktank for breaching its charitable objectives. According to the commission, a report by Legatum on the benefits of free trade after Brexit ‘failed to meet the required standards of balance and neutrality’.

Corbyn reminds Labour MPs not to employ unpaid interns after Umunna advert
The BBC says that Jeremy Corbyn has reminded his MPs not to employ unpaid interns. This follows the news that Chuka Umunna advertised for a student from Leeds University to work for him without being paid. Umunna said that as he was advertising for someone on a year in industry placement, they would be supported by their student loan.

Vuelio Political Services are available for custom political intelligence. Learn more.

GDPR

GDPR vs USA

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The GDPR is finally here (hooray!). The new data privacy regulation that covers EU citizens (and, yes, those in the UK even after it leaves), is now in force across Europe. Designed to give more control to individuals over how their data is collected and processed, the GDPR has been a hot topic for months in the UK, but seems to have caught some in the US by surprise.

Here at Vuelio, we’ve embraced the General Data Protection Regulation and have done everything we can to prepare our users and the communications industry for the biggest data protection upheaval in 20 years. Not only did we publish white papers, guides and Q&As, spoke at events and hosted a webinar, we also upgraded our software to cater to the industry’s needs.

Unfortunately, it seems not everyone was so prepared. Even though the GDPR has been on the horizon for years, many businesses have clearly been caught without a plan, including large corporations on the other side of the pond.

LA Times

Publisher Tronc’s papers, including the LA Times and Chicago Tribune, now all carry the same message on their websites to European visitors, denying access. This appears to have irritated Andrea Jelinek, head of the EU’s Data Protection Board, who said in an email to Bloomberg: ‘GDPR didn’t just fall from heaven. Everyone had plenty of time to prepare.’

As reported by the Columbia Journalism Review (CJR), other US news sites have approached the GDPR issue in a different way. USA Today, for example, has stripped away most of its ad-related software; while the US version is over 5MB and has over 800 ad-related requests in the website’s code, the EU version is less than half a megabyte and contains no third-party content at all. CJR believes this will impact publishers who are already struggling with digital revenues, which rely on ad tracking software.

It’s not just publishers. Wilbur Ross, US Commerce Secretary, has spoken out against the GDPR, suggesting it would make EU trade with any other nation much harder. Writing in the Financial Times, Ross said: ‘As currently envisioned, GDPR’s implementation could significantly interrupt transatlantic co-operation and create unnecessary barriers to trade, not only for the US, but for everyone outside the EU.’

Ross also expresses concern about governmental cooperation, claiming the GDPR has created ‘unclear legal obligations’ and that the US Government does not have ‘a clear understanding of what is required to comply’. He obviously hasn’t read our white paper, The GDPR Made Simple.

Silicon Valley, responsible for a large slice of Europe’s digital services, is no doubt lobbying the US Government to do what it can to relax laws, but it’s hard to see what ground can be made (especially as the EU has been preparing for the regulation since 2016).

That Google and Facebook were both reported for breaching the GDPR on 25 May was inevitable, but it’s made the US situation much more desperate. Both companies claim they have spent months preparing and believe they are compliant (Mark Zuckerberg also recently said the company believes in the rules and are rolling them out globally), but with potential fines reaching up to 4% of turnover, which in Google’s case would equate to nearly $4.5bn, if they’re wrong then the consequences will be devastating (for Google).

The GDPR is here to stay, and for those that have prepared, it’s a manageable addition to data privacy laws. But for whole nations, including the US, it’s now become a blockage that has the potential to change the face of global digital services forever.

Need help with GDPR compliance? Vuelio is here to help – find out more.

Radio 1

Nick Grimshaw and Greg James to swap shows

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Nick Grimshaw has announced that he is stepping down from his role of host of the Radio 1 Breakfast Show. He is swapping with Greg James, and will host a ‘brand new’ drivetime show.

This week, Grimshaw became the second-longest running breakfast show host in Radio 1 history, overtaking Tony Blackburn. Grimshaw took over from Chris Moyles, who still holds the record for the longest time as breakfast show host, in 2012, which marked a shift in the station’s strategy to appeal to a purposefully younger audience.

From 2012 onwards, the show’s audience numbers dropped dramatically, but station controller Ben Cooper has always defended the station as ‘the most relevant youth brand in the UK today’. Radio 1 also boasts a huge reach across social media, making traditional listening figures less significant. Cooper said: ‘Grimmy’s done a brilliant job reinventing the feel and tone of the breakfast show by connecting with new audiences in new ways in the digital age.’

James joined Radio 1 straight from student radio, a career path Cooper has previously expressed an interest in to find fresh talent, even calling James the ‘poster boy’ of that route into radio.

Cooper said: ‘I’m so proud that Radio 1 produces and nurtures the best talent in the industry – I gave Greg his first show when he joined us from student radio and now he’s getting the most famous radio gig in the world – it’s going to be fantastic.’

James said: ‘I am completely beside myself that I’ve been given the chance to present the most famous radio show in the world. It really doesn’t get any bigger than this and I really want to build on the great work Grimmy has done.’

Grimmy’s route into radio was more traditional for Radio 1, working on a series of music related TV shows and smaller Radio shows before landing the big job. When he was appointed to the role, many questioned how a man known for partying late with the rich and famous would cope with such early mornings, but his five-year run has surely put questions of his commitment to the role to bed. And now, at least, he’ll get to sleep.

Grimshaw said: ‘It was always my dream to do the breakfast show and I’m very grateful that I got to live my dream every day for what will be nearly six years. But six years is a long time and this isn’t a forever job.

‘I had the time of my life. I’ve decided it’s time for a change and a new show. I love Radio 1 and can’t wait to get on with the new time slot and the removal of all alarms from my house.’

This news follows a previous announcement that Radio 1 is moving to a four-day week/three-day weekend, which starts next month. Grimshaw and James will swap shows in the Autumn.

All changes on broadcast radio are kept up to date in the Vuelio Media Database. 

France

Political Headlines – Brexit security, NHS deficit, antisemitism in Labour and Islamaphobia in Conservative party

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Today’s Political Headlines include France blocking a Brexit security deal, NHS hospital deficit, Jewish leader accusing Corbyn of antisemitism and Muslin Council of Britain calling for investigation into Conservative party Islamaphobia. 

French blocking Brexit security deal
According to The Times, France is blocking the UK’s attempts to reach a post-Brexit security deal. The country is objecting to the UK continuing to participate in the Prüm Convention, which allows for the sharing of DNA, fingerprint and vehicle information to identify criminals. Continued UK participation is reportedly backed by Germany.

NHS hospitals record deficit of almost £1bn
The Financial Times reports that NHS hospitals ended the year with a deficit of £1bn, almost twice the amount expected. Data released today by NHS Improvement shows that the service has been affected by a ‘surge in demand’ but the body claims that the figure is £1.5bn better than that for 2015-16. The Nuffield Trust, however, described the figure as ‘window dressing’ and claimed that ‘the true, underlying figure is much, much worse’.

Jewish leader accuses Corbyn of holding antisemitic views
Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Jonathan Arkush, the outgoing president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said that Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn held ‘antisemitic views’ which had left Jews asking ‘do we have a future here?’ He also criticised the Archbishop of Canterbury for not speaking out with a ‘stronger, clearer voice’.

Muslim Council of Britain calls for investigation into Islamophobia in the Conservatives
As the BBC reports, the Muslim Council of Britain has called on the Conservatives to launch an inquiry into Islamophobia in their party. In an open letter to Brandon Lewis, the party’s chair, the council complains of ‘more than weekly incidents’ of Islamophobia and specifically cites the MP Bob Blackman.

Cleverly accuses Labour of playing party politics over Northern Irish abortion
The Guardian reports that James Cleverly, one of the Conservative Party’s Deputy Chairs, has accused Labour of exploiting the campaign to change abortion law in Northern Ireland for political gain. However, at least 13 female Conservative MPs back a change in the law, with a number backing a free vote on an amendment tabled by Labour’s Stella Creasy.

Former cabinet ministers trying to unite Tories behind ‘sensible Brexit’
The Times reports that former cabinet ministers Amber Rudd, Damian Green and Justine Greening are trying to unite Conservative MPs behind a ‘sensible Brexit’. The trio held a meeting with Theresa May yesterday, having consulted with backbench MPs, that a large majority of the parliamentary party was in favour of a compromise with the EU.

UK to be offered ‘less privileged and more expensive’ deal on research after Brexit
In an exclusive, The Guardian claims that the EU is preparing to give the UK a ‘less privileged and more expensive’ deal on science and research collaboration than that offered to some non-EU countries, such as Israel. Instead, the UK will be offered the same deal extended to countries such as Canada and South Korea, but plans to try and change this through its participation in EU budget negotiations.

Businesses warn May that they won’t invest due to Brexit uncertainty
According to the Financial Times, when a delegation of European business leaders met the Prime Minister and David Davis, the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, yesterday they warned them that they would not invest in the UK until the uncertainty of the negotiations were over. The group was led by Carl-Henric Svanberg, outgoing chairman of BP, and included representatives of Vodaphone, Nestlé, BMW, E.ON and others.

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S4 Capital

Can Sorrell do it again?

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Sir Martin Sorrell has started his comeback, just six weeks after his departure from WPP. The marketing mogul has announced he is taking over Derriston Capital, a stock exchange listed cash shell, which he will use to build a new kind of marketing services group.

In 1985, Sorrell took over Wire and Plastic Products plc (WPP), turning it, through a series of high profile takeovers, into the world’s largest advertising company. In April, Sorrell stepped down after WPP began an investigation into supposed misconduct.

Now Sorrell is starting again. As reported by The Guardian, the 73-year-old has acquired Derriston Capital with £40m of his own money and £11m from other investors. Some of those investors have also signed ‘non-binding letters of support’ to provide more than £150m of additional funding for Sorrell’s acquisition plans.

Derriston Capital reportedly started talks with Sorrell just weeks after his WPP departure. It has been announced the company will change its name to S4 Capital, which references four generations of the Sorrell family.

S4 Capital has announced there are already a number of potential acquisition targets: ‘The directors of the company understand that S4 Capital is at present in preliminary discussions regarding a select number of potential acquisitions that would fit with the strategy of building a multinational communication services business.’

When Sorrell left WPP, he said the world needed a new kind of agency, one that was ‘more agile, more responsive, less layered, less bureaucratic, less heavy’. S4 Capital has backed this departure from a traditional marketing services company, saying the company is looking to acquire ‘businesses focused on technology, data and content’.

Sorrell, who is executive chairman of S4 Capital, said: ‘There are significant opportunities for development in technology, data and content. I look forward to making this happen.’

It has also been announced a number of Sorrell’s former colleagues and friends are to join him in his new venture, including Rupert Faure Walker, who assisted with the takeover of J Walter Thompson and Ogilvy & Mather in the late 1980s, and Paul Roy, founder of investment management company NewSmith Capital Partners.

WPP has not commented on the news, but probably regrets such a loose weave contract they had in place with Sorrell, which not only lacked a non-compete clause and allowed Sorrell to leave at any time, but also meant the company will now be paying him up to £20m over the next five years.

The advertising industry has been struggling for some time in the age of Google and Facebook, and the market is already oversaturated by the big five. But, if anyone can engineer another meteoric rise and create a new marketing super giant, Sorrell can.

Freelancer emma harrison

‘I love working with PRs’, Journalist Spotlight with Emma Harrison

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Emma Harrison is a freelance journalist who has written for a number of leading outlets. In this journalist spotlight, Emma discusses how she juggles her busy workload, manages multiple deadlines and works with passionate PRs.

Can you describe a typical working day for you as a freelance writer?
Generally, I am always busy! I am lucky to undertake contract editorial work alongside my freelancing writing at the moment. There is always an email to send, calls to return, research to undertake and copy to write. It’s not just a day job for me and you can often find me working evenings and weekends too. I try to keep a sense of balance though as sometimes you do need to take a step back in order to move forwards.

You contribute to a variety of publications. How do you juggle your various workloads?
By keeping a list of deadlines – it can be challenging when they all seem to be due at the same time, but you just need to buckle down and stay focused. I use a physical diary, to do lists and the calendar on my phone, so I always know where I am with everything.

How did you first get into journalism?
It’s only been in the last few years to be honest, I previously worked in marketing and my favourite element was writing copy. I have gradually moved over to more of an editorially-focused role, however, I am still able to utilise those digital marketing skills from time to time!

What are the most enjoyable parts of your job? What are some of the challenges you face?
I think there are always challenges in every job, but it is all about how you tackle those challenges. From a freelancing perspective, I suppose that sometimes your workload is full on busy but there are occasions where you are less busy. I am the sort of person that loves to be busy all of the time, so when I am not it can be a little frustrating.

How do you use social media to write, research and distribute content?
Social media is amazing for distributing content and for finding new and exciting brands to write about. Who doesn’t love the #journorequest hashtag?

What is your relationship with PRs like? What would you say to any PR professionals who want to work with you?
I absolutely love working with PRs; they are always so enthusiastic and passionate about their clients, which is great. I would say to PR companies that I read every single email and press release that comes through. I do my best to reply to everybody and always keep people’s details on file, so even if I don’t have any opportunities right now to include your brand, who knows what might happen in the future.

What type of press material are you interested in receiving?
Anything goes, as long as it has a strong hook, of course!

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