Consumer & Market Trends

A career in marketing has always been a popular choice, but in the current candidate-driven market employers are having to do more and more in order to recruit and retain high quality employees. This is the second annual survey that Michael Page Marketing has conducted in association with Marketing Week and it is great to be involved again. The 2006 survey has been completed by more than 1,000 marketing professionals from throughout the UK. The findings highlight the most desired companies to work for, and illustrates the most important factors that attract candidates to a job be it salary, career development or the brand. Read more of Richard Vickers’ introduction here For the full survey click here

Blogging may be the latest buzzword among consumers, and research unveils the considerable effect it has on their purchasing, but that’s no reason for marketers to jump on the bandwagon.

Sir Philip Green should follow the lead of high street chains like M&S and Tesco, and look for a ‘brand idea’ for his ailing Bhs outlets, says Rita Clifton

The resurgence in the 2006 DM Agency Reputation Survey of those agencies that are named after founders or established partners reflects a growing client preference for accountability and tried-and-tested value, but the emphasis is very much on ‘teamwork’. David Reed reports.

As feelings warm towards the media sector, investors are showing a more sympathetic side in their approach to media companies.

Supermarkets and online retailers may have made significant inroads into the gift markets over the past five years, but this Christmas the high street is looking for ways to win back shoppers.

After failing to sell his family’s stake, Matalan founder John Hargreaves wants to buy the remaining shares, delist the company and knock it into shape, writes Martin Croft.

Only three brand hold enough sway to persuade consumers to seek them out onlinem the rest need to find ways to be visible on search lists and offer the right data to be included in comparision sites.

Why should clients be won over by agencies’ proprietary tools and names, when they fail to offer anything unique? says David Wethey

Many non-core brands live in limbo, neglected by their owners, but with a little attention they can realise their potential.

Impressive sales at the ‘world’s biggest bookseller’ are masking falling profits and costly litigation, but the financial markets still love Amazon, says Dominic Dudley.

Consumers are aware of green energy issues, but cost and a lack of leadership from business and Government are stalling action. Will change only come with our children, who show real commitment?

WPP is striving to keep the Sky account, and no wonder – since its UK arrival in 1989 it has been a force to reckon with, and it looks like it will remain so, says Catherine Turner

While creative brilliance is sought after, clients also want advertising agencies to demonstrate robust management and financial processes. It is a requirement many are struggling to fulfil