Gabby’s Word 6 September 2012

Photo credit: Ruth Ward

 

It’s September and so we’re gearing up for the autumn awards ceremonies. Thankfully, now having a larger editorial team means we can split the load and as such, the LBB team will be dusting off their passports and hitting the UK airports once again. 

 

First off, this Monday I shall be heading to Singapore to attend Asia’s advertising festival, Spikes. This is a first for me. I haven’t been able to attend before, which is why I am arriving a week earlier to take the opportunity to visit agencies and production houses throughout the city. The Far East is a huge topic of conversation here in the West, not least because of the financial advantages the area is displaying. Just as important though is the talent and vibrant content coming out of the area. This won’t be my first visit to Singapore - I made a similar voyage back in 2006, but I’ve been forewarned that a lot has changed in the last six years and I have to admit, I’m intrigued and excited. LBB will also be present at the Monday night parties – McCann Worldgroup are kindly supporting us at their party. If you see me and want to, please say ‘hello’. We all know I love to meet a new face and I’m keen to make sure that LBB is in communication with the area – we really want to hear about your work and your people. 

 

My trip to Asia doesn’t end there. During the Spikes party on the Tuesday night I shall be making a dignified exit, suitcase in tow, to the airport where I shall be heading to Hong Kong for three nights. This will be my first visit and I’m really enthusiastic to see as much of the industry as possible. If I haven’t already contacted you, apologies, time differences make it a wee logistical nightmare – drop me an email.

 

What else? Well, my trusted colleague and amazing staff writer, Laura Swinton shall be heading to the LIA awards in Las Vegas at the end of the month with our founder, Matt Cooper. As guests of the awards, she will be interviewing many of the jury and bringing you back news on the goings-on and work that she sees. I imagine she’ll be super busy, but if anyone see’s her at the roulette wheel or with a little plastic beaker near the fruities, please remind her that I have eyes and ears and am watching her. If you’d like to meet with Laura, again, she’s a sociable lady too and will be happy to hear from you.

 

Currently, as we go to print, I haven’t still managed to work out how I can attend the Loeries whilst also being in Singapore and Hong Kong… If you’re attending and would love to report back to the LBB community on your time at the awards and the work featured, I’m very open to suggestions and would love to hear from you. 

 

We hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter and our new feature ‘Client Perspective’ where we speak directly to brands about their view of working with adland. Many thanks to Absolut’s UK Marketing Manager, Adam Boita who bravely agreed to be our first interview subject. If you’re a client and you’d like us to interview you – send me an email.

 

Gabby