Presented during the virtual BPMA Conference, CEO Carey Trevill revealed a summary of consumer reactions to merchandise. The research, paused at the start of lockdown, examined topical questions about consumer expectations for merchandise and goods such as face coverings and hand sanitiser together with recall for merchandise.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced yesterday a new Jobs Support Scheme operating from 1st November, leading from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme closing on 31st October, available for another 6 months.
Long awaited research is being released this week at the BPMA Conference. At a special session hosted by BPMA CEO Carey Trevill, she will be examining the first of a two part research project undertaken by the BPMA for member use.
New guidance explains how to use the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking which replaces the CE mark in Great Britain.
It’s the middle of August and usually time for a well-earned break before the next phase of the year. With holidays taking on a special significance for many this year as we pause and look ahead at the signs of change, we look to indications of growth and optimism from the end user market to influence thinking and planning. Look out for industry research report and views in this newsletter.
End user research carried out by the DMA has indicated a mixed bag when questioned about the impact Coronavirus has had on the ability to carry out marketing programs. With 52% still feeling pessimistic, evidence shows that customer trust is building back in brands to as much as 40%. When considering impact of the ability to carry out marketing programs during this period, 40% of marketers reported it was the same with 27% saying it had improved.
If you tried to apply early on in lockdown for a discretionary grant or didn’t think you would be successful, local councils have reopened this to businesses. BPMA Chair Angela Wagstaff advised Supplier and Distributor forums to not delay seeking this extra available funding.
On Thursday 6th August, the BPMA hosted the first of a new regular series of Supplier and Distributor forums for members. To be held monthly, these forums will provide an invaluable platform to share best practice, ideas and address challenges.
As furlough schemes enter their next phase, many employers have had to make tough decisions to reduce headcount as the severe downturn has lasting impact on orders. Across the UK, many talented and hardworking staff are finding themselves facing redundancy.
The government released details of training grants, calling on traders and intermediaries needing to make customs declarations from next year to apply for training grants from a £50m dedicated fund.
Schools out and as we face an unusual summer, many businesses are in the waiting game for slow and steady drip of budgets to be released. With end users looking for innovative ideas to surprise and delight customers, distributors are working hard to bring ideas to the table, working with suppliers to stimulate new orders and opportunities where promotional merchandise continues to provide the perfect solution. With many suppliers and distributors still in the process of bringing teams back into offices and off furlough, every ounce of energy is tuned to changes in pace and need, ready to capture every order on the horizon.
That’s right, we are back in print this September! We’re already working on a bumper issue, packed with news, views and opinions plus interviews and profiles on speakers at the BPMA Conference in September.
It’s been over 100 days since the start of lockdown and as we approach the end of July, change is on the horizon.
If you’re suffering from lockdown hair or just the thought of being served your favourite meal in a local restaurant is occupying every waking moment, you’re not alone! Most of us seem set to head for the nearest hairdresser but be prepared to wait even longer as waiting lists are reportedly 4 months for some salons.
The BPMA have been made aware of a recent scam that we would like to bring to your attention.
Tune in every Thursday for BPMA member webinars, hosted by interim CEO Carey Trevill, sharing insights, facts and figures plus welcoming guest speakers on select topics. We have also enjoyed guest slots for members who have shared their lock down business journeys, the highs and lows plus their learnings along the way.
Life is changing and with the announcement from Government that some sectors can start to return to work, with more guidelines to follow and rules to interpret, we are faced with decisions to make as businesses to map a path to the future.
Due to Covid-19 our May/June issue is brought to you digitally to ensure all home workers can keep up to date with the latest news and developments
British promotional merchandise manufacturers have joined forces with NHS charity HEROES to raise urgent funds for our incredible NHS frontline staff AND we need your help.
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