16 December 2021
2021 wrapped up
Naomi Batchelor
‘Twas the week before Christmas, at the BWP workplace,
All were still stirring, even Finance working at a steady pace!
Richard’s Peloton stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In the hope that it would give them a much-needed-air.
The Groupies were nestled all snug at their desks,
While remembering the visions of the Christmas party grotesques.
And all the team in their festive gear,
Had just settled their brains for a long winter’s beer –
When out in the carpark there arose such a clatter,
We all sprang to see what was the matter.
Away to the window we flew like a flash,
Tore open the blinds (but also remembered to clear our cache).
The moon on the breast of the new fallen snow,
Gave the lustre of mid-day to the objects below.
When, what to our wondering eyes should appear,
But all the amazing things that took place at BWP this year…
C is for… Charity!
2021 was a tough year for everyone, but more so for the charities that rely on our donations. This year, to support our selected charity Alzheimer’s Society, we set ourselves the challenge to run, walk, cycle (and even inflatable obstacle courses) 7,000km to raise awareness and funds, in honour of the 7,000 people living locally with this awful illness. Not only that, but we also shut the office on 5th November to dedicate our time to support our local activity centre Longridge, to get prepared for their winter closure, as well as the momentous effort from Phil, who ran 131 miles and cycled 160 miles in aid of Papyrus, a prevention of young suicide charity.
H is for… Highlights!
Our main highlight for this year, was being able to continue working with our clients to produce and deliver some fantastic work! Not only this, but we were also proud as punch when BWP was appointed as the lead Marketing Agency for Trafford Centre, The Boulevard was announced winner of the coveted “Most Innovative Marketing Campaign” and the re-opening of IKEA’s event doors, to welcome Dame Zandra Rhodes to celebrate the launch of the new KARISMATISK product range.
R is for… Recruits!
In the year of 2021, we welcomed a total of nine new Groupies to the team! PR are slowly but surely (and we don’t mean just vocally) taking over headquarters as they DOUBLED in size, with Callum, Emily, and Mikaela joining the team. The gents in Studio were finally whipped into shape as the design-duo, Amy, and Loren started this year. Whilst the Client Services department and its ever-growing team, made space for the fabulous-foursome Angelina, Annie, Katie, and Loretta. Alongside this, we continue to improve our Agile Resourcing side of the business, to really enhance our offering – all headed up by the delightful Lynne. Not only do all these groupies bring a fresh breath of air and talent to the team, but they also bring a shedload of good looks too 😍
I is for… Insider gossip!
There was a lot going on inside of the BWP office walls, but there was a LOT more going on in the lives of our groupies. 2021 saw a total of 1 pregnancy announcement, 1 wedding, 2 engagements and 3 new BWPuppies! Mikaela is busy creating a mini-me and is due in May 2022. Unfortunately for us ladies, Joe is now officially off limits as he tied the knot with the beautiful Sarah. James pulled it out the bag and proposed to Joanne, with the big date being set for 24th March 2022. Izzy had 2 unforgettable days with Ieuan getting down on one knee, as well as welcoming their adorable fur-baby Hudson. Hannah also welcomed little Lola too (who isn’t so little anymore!) with Jo adopting the ridiculously cute Flecki, all the way from Bosnia.
S is for… Successes!
This year we had an abundance of new client wins with brands such as ASUS, Briggs&Stratton and Mattel, just to name a few. The PR Team also supported the launch of Laura Ashley into Next stores which was an amazing campaign to be part of – with the response from the press and public being overwhelmingly positive! We continued to work collaboratively with Kärcher Professional and supporting them as they take over the cleaning industry! Amongst all the goings on, the positive feedback we’ve received from our clients has kept us going – even in the most challenging of times.
T is for… Teachings!
Our biggest learning from 2021 was that there’s no substitute for us all being together! Whether it be internally with our peers or working collaboratively with our clients, this year has shown that transparency and good relationships are crucial in these challenging times. We want to take this opportunity to thank both our clients and our colleagues for continually demonstrating the ability to work flexibly, whilst not compromising on the standard of work. Here’s to more BWPartying in 2022!
M is for… Motivations!
Moving forward into 2022, we are more ready than ever – with our new agile approach to working as well as client relationships going from strength to strength, we are welcoming the New Year with open arms (socially distanced if needed!). Our motivation is to create sustainable growth for us as well as our clients, to continue to make a positive impact in everything we do.
A is for… Adverts!
This is the bit we know you’ve all been waiting for 😉 It’s that time of the year again, where we all wait patiently in front of our phones, laptops, and TVs to watch each of the Christmas adverts. Some had us reaching for the tissues, some had us giggling to ourselves, but all of them gave us that warm-fuzzy feeling. Here’s BWP’s top 3 of 2021…
1. Aldi’s Ebanana Scrooge
2. McDonald’s Imaginary Iggy
3. John Lewis’ Unexpected Guest
S is for… See you all next year!
It goes without saying that we couldn’t have done this year without the continued support from both our existing, and new clients. This year has taught us many valuable lessons, but none as how important a good team and work ethic is, to help a business not only thrive, but survive. We wish you all, the happiest of Christmases and hope you get to spend it with your nearest and dearest and look forward to working with you again in the New Year.
Lots of love,
BWP x