The Queen of Crime certainly had a curious mind and as a female writer, was a trailblazer in her field. So, I suspect that she would have dabbled with AI to assist her work in areas such as research, testing plot ideas and producing first drafts. If she used Midjourney she could have also knocked out a couple of sample book covers while she was at it.
AI Work Trends
The current world of labour and work is changing fast as highlighted in a report conducted by Linkedin and Microsoft called the “2024 Work Trend Index Report” which surveyed 31,000 people across 31 countries identifying labour and hiring trends.
What the survey found is that 78% of employees want AI at work, with the majority of them unable to wait for companies to catch up. Meaning that, impatient staff are bringing their “home” AI tools to work.
Professionals aren’t waiting for policies, training or guidance. They are up-skilling themselves. Simply because AI skills can help them get promoted faster as well as broadening their job opportunities.
AI Power Users
The rise of the “AI power user” means that they can save 30 minutes a day over their non-AI colleagues. AI helps to manage an often-overwhelming workload sometimes referred to as “digital debt.” Additional benefits include the ability to focus, boost creativity, motivation and yes….wait for it…..enjoyment!
Interestingly it was also found that 66% of leaders would not hire someone without AI skills. So, the AI power user has become more attractive and marketable in a competitive workplace.
In fact, leading AI adopters achieve four times the ROI compared to newcomers, according to IDC. Plus, AI capabilities ae now doubling at four times the pace of traditional computing.
Between December 2024 and January 2025 ChatGPT’s average number of weekly users jumped from 300m to 400m accounts. If you consider that the UK has 69m people living in it, this is the whole of the UK got into AI in one month….and then some!
Another global study by Lenovo highlights that “only 11% of organisations are currently using GenAI-powered applications, this number is expected to increase almost fourfold to 42% in the coming year.”
Barriers to AI Adoption in Business
The Lenovo study cites “lack of skilled expertise is the most common reason for not investing in AI, while the research found that access to partners with strong AI capabilities remains one of the most important factors in successful AI implementation.”
So, for all those youngsters looking to ride the next tech wave a career in AI looks to be a good option for the next generation.
Our local heroine Agatha Christie, she was often asked about what “system” she used to write her books. Unfortunately, she had to respond by saying that there was no “system.” She had the ideas, wrote the plot and then spent a disproportionate amount of time worrying about the story, rewriting and editing until at last, one finished book was produced and sent to the publisher. Each book she wrote provided Agatha with an initial £60 payment from her publisher.
I think that Agatha Christie would have loved an AI “system” which might well have given her a good head start. But as in all things AI, it is the human touch which elevates her novels to reach the heady heights of being the world’s best-selling author of all time, following The Bible.
I feel that she would have been mildly amused by www.bookbyanyone.com which can write a book using AI for your loved one based on their interests and hobbies for £26 in 5 mins.
Other great business AI tools this week also include markmap for making sense of data in mindmaps/flowcharts and gamma.app Presentations and Slide Decks with AI | Gamma for fast PowerPoint presentations.
LeonardoPower assists agencies to tackle real world problems using AI. To find out more contact us by emailing [email protected]
Gold: Best Expression of a Brand on Social Media Channels
Bronze: Best Use of Copy Style or Tone of Voice
The Transform Awards celebrate excellence in brand strategy and execution across Europe. saintnicks’ work with Ascot Racecourse brought to life the brand’s creative platform, Elegance at Play – combining social-first storytelling, a distinct tone of voice, and thumb-stopping, jaw-dropping content that captured the attention of both loyal racegoers and new audiences alike.
Speaking on the win, Fraser Bradshaw, CEO at saintnicks, said:
“We set out to create a truly ownable brand voice and world-class social content that matched Ascot’s stature as an iconic British institution. To see that work recognised is a brilliant moment for the team and a testament to the power of brave, collaborative thinking.”
If you’re after a creative brand agency that will go the extra mile for your brand, drop saintnicks a line. You can find out more about their brand, campaigns, content and digital expertise here, or reach out to their Client Services Director, Francois d’Espagnac.
We are a studio of tea-drinkers, in a big way. Chris averages 15-20 a day.
So, when we pitched for a new brand of tea from the founders of TeaPigs we knew we had to win it… luckily we did!
We knew Sofia and Lou from Spill were our kind of people: rebellious, focused, and unafraid to speak the truth about a staple UK beverage we all take for granted.
We’re a studio of tea drinkers, Chris even had it in his bottle as a toddler. True fact. So, we knew we had to win this pitch. Luckily, we did.
Lou and Sofia are experts. With a legacy in premium tea and even books under their belts, they know their lapsang souchong from their builders’ brew – and everything in between. But what they also knew was that the story behind how tea is sourced – and how farmers are treated – was broken. So they set out to change that, and spill the tea on the industry. Safe to say, it’s working: they landed their first supermarket listing in under two years.
We worked closely with Sofia and Lou to refine the brief and really get under the skin of the audience. Armed with research and moodboards, they came to us ready to disrupt again. This was a brand being built from the ground up, and when you’re working with people who’ve already challenged the category in their past lives, collaboration was essential. That set the tone for a process that was equal parts strategic and creative from day one.
Our visual starting point drew inspiration from premium beauty brands, those that balance honesty with clarity. We explored colour palettes, typography, and design cues that would stand out on shelf, not blend in. This wasn’t just about looking good. It was about earning trust, visually and emotionally.
Redesigning the look of something as ingrained in culture as tea is no small feat. It took multiple routes, critiques, and creative pivots before we landed on the one – a route that nearly didn’t make it, but ended up being just right.
The chosen route was a wild card: classic in structure, bold in attitude. Visually, it demanded attention just like the truths Lou and Sofia are sharing about the tea industry.
We developed an earthy, modular colour palette to grow with the brand as new SKUs launch. Paired with rich, artful photography, the brand identity delivers a modern yet nostalgic feel, rooted in honesty, but with a fresh energy that reflects Spill’s values.
For packaging, we tapped into the tactile world of 60s and 70s kitchenware, bringing a sense of modern nostalgia to the tins and bags. Design that not only tells a story, but earns its place on the kitchen shelf. A statement piece, not just a storage one.
Oh, and if you want to know how to make a proper cup of tea? They’ve got you covered here!
Looking to engage new audiences or work with an agency who does bold, not meh? Get in touch.
For the second consecutive year, McCann Bristol has joined forces with The Turing Trust, a charitable organisation that supports digital education in sub-Saharan Africa. Through a donation of 158 refurbished devices across the McCann Central network, which encompasses McCann Bristol, 3,510 students will now have access to vital IT skills, helping to bridge the digital divide.
Beyond supporting education, the donation also has a positive environmental impact. By extending the life of these devices, McCann is helping to offset 55 tonnes of CO2 emissions – the equivalent of planting 136 trees or offsetting the annual carbon footprint of six people.
This latest contribution builds on last year’s donation of 212 IT devices, which provided 3,816 students with access to technology and learning opportunities.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with The Turing Trust and see our contributions make a real difference,” said Anil Mangal, Head of IT at McCann Central. “Access to technology opens up incredible opportunities, and we’re delighted that our donation will help thousands of students develop the skills they need for the future.”
Noah van der Linde, Donations Manager at The Turing Trust, added: “McCann’s ongoing support is truly invaluable. This latest donation will allow even more students to learn and grow. We can’t thank the team enough for their generosity and commitment to bridging the digital divide.”
For details on The Turing Trust, visit: https://turingtrust.co.uk.
Chemistry, trust and authenticity are key ingredients in agencies winning new clients.
That’s the finding of jfdi and Opinium‘s annual New Business Barometer, a comprehensive survey of agency business development professionals, across disciplines including creative, digital, experiential, content and social.
The report, of which Bristol Creative Industries is a partner, found that generating strong chemistry with the client is the most important factor in converting prospects. It was cited by 74% of respondents, up 5% on last year’s report.
The study said:
“Chasing an increased number of opportunities coupled with hybrid working practice and pitch team stretch is making agency chemistry harder to sustain.”
Trust also plays a key role with connections and referrals the most popular prospecting strategies, highlighted by 86% and 74% of respondents.
jfdi said:
“Trust and authenticity has become a superpower in an anxious world fuelled by misinformation and uncertainty.”
When asked about the key internal challenges, time was the most popular highlighted factor, The report said time saving AI tools are one solution, with “speed of adoption over the next 12 months” potentially leading to “a significant competitive advantage for your agency”.
Five and a half months is the average lifecycle of a new business project from initial contact from pitch to client billing, the study said, and the “ghost pitch” continues to rise with 45% stating budget withdrawal as the reason for pitch loss, a 2% increase on last year.
“Agencies can safeguard their interests by activating tighter qualification of budget ‘status’ within client organisations: is it real, speculative or ‘tbc’?,” the report advised.
Additional findings from the report:
Jon Goulding, CEO at Atomic, said:
“The industry has never been more dynamic than it is today. With so many brands reviewing agency relationships and looking for such a diverse mix of specialisms, your new business strategy and approach is arguably the most important ingredient for modern agency success.
“Over nearly eight years, the New Business Barometer has become the go-to insight resource for the new business community. It always offers a fascinating snapshot into the new business community and this year is no different. While automation and AI may be improving the efficiency of new business processes, the continued importance of trust, personal connections, and chemistry really stands out.”
For a full summary of the report, email [email protected]
Event in Bristol on 13 March: How to retain your clients
Don’t lose sight of your new business pipeline
10 top tips for getting the pitch over the line
How Bristol Creative Industries members are using AI
What we’ve learned about AI in agencies: Insights from 30 creative leaders
How to prospect for new business without losing your soul
How creative businesses can write the perfect positioning statement
The ‘Find Your Fizz’ campaign takes a fresh approach to marketing Pink Lady® apples’ unique flavour and taps into McCann’s research that reveals many Brits, particularly younger women, are often hesitant to express their true selves due to fear of social judgement. To help celebrate the uniquely fizzy Pink Lady® apples, the multi-channel ‘Find Your Fizz’ campaign champions individuality by celebrating those unapologetically moments of joy and mischief we often suppress.
Designed to drive sales and boost brand awareness, McCann’s campaign taps into Pink Lady® apples’ unique flavour profile, inspiring people to embrace their own unique personalities. Set at a competitive dog show, the TV ad focuses on a woman biting into her Pink Lady apple with the resultant ‘fizz’ awakening her inner desire to perform. We see her tackle the obstacle course, turning in a committed and comedic performance that wins applause and inspires jealousy from her canine competition.
McCann Bristol’s ECD, Zane Radcliffe said: “This is a fresh approach from a client who recognises the power of humour and doing things a little differently. There’s no apple quite like Pink Lady®, in terms of colour and taste and we wanted to create an ad that was equally distinctive and disruptive. The directing and performances are a joy and the scenario wonderfully mischievous.”
The Pink Lady® brand team at Twenty Degrees commented: “This is a bold new vision for the brand, one which builds on a global brand positioning developed by Twenty Degrees. We’re excited by the creative execution McCann has succeeded in bringing to life for the UK market. Our goal was to entertain consumers, giving them permission to celebrate their individuality and find joy in it. Much like a Pink Lady® apple. We’re proudly leaning into our distinctive profile.”
McCann’s campaign will run as a TVC, as well as across DOOH, digital and social media.
Creating a brand film is an incredible opportunity for businesses to connect with their audience on a deeper level. In today’s fast-paced digital world, a well-crafted brand film can tell your story in a way that resonates emotionally, showcasing not just what you do, but why you do it. This powerful visual medium allows you to highlight your values, mission, and unique offerings while engaging potential customers in an impactful way. Think of it as a compelling narrative that not only builds brand awareness but also fosters trust and loyalty among consumers who are looking for authenticity.
Also, with the rising popularity of video content across social media platforms, having a brand film can significantly increase your reach and visibility. By sharing your story through this dynamic format, you’re not just promoting products or services; you’re creating an experience that invites viewers to be part of your journey. Ultimately, investing in a brand film is about crafting memorable moments that leave lasting impressions – helping you stand out in a crowded marketplace and truly connect with your audience.
The creation of a brand film unfolds in three essential stages: pre-production, production, and post-production. The pre-production phase presents the opportunity to dive deep into understanding a brand’s vision and goals. This is a time to brainstorm ideas, develop scripts, and plan every detail – from casting talent to location scouting- ensuring everything aligns perfectly with the brand message. Moving into the production stage, it becomes all about bringing those ideas to life, capturing stunning visuals and audio that resonate with the brand’s audience. Finally, comes the post-production stage; this involves editing the footage, adding sound design and visual effects that elevate the brand’s story. By following this structured approach to brand film production, you can create captivating content whilst ensuring it effectively conveys your unique narrative to your target audience.
When it comes to managing a project, several key factors come into play that can significantly influence the outcome. First and foremost, establishing a clear project scope is crucial; it sets the foundation for what needs to be achieved and helps keep everyone aligned. Client feedback loops are equally important, as they ensure that things are on the right track and allow for adjustments based on insights. Changes in creative direction can sometimes arise, but with open communication and flexibility, an experienced production company will be able to adapt while still meeting deadlines. Additionally, resource availability plays a vital role in planning – knowing what tools and talent are out there enables an effective execution of the creative vision. Lastly, logistics around filming locations shouldn’t be overlooked; coordinating these details early on helps avoid potential hiccups later in the process. Keeping all these elements in check, enables a smooth workflow that leads to great results for clients while fostering a collaborative environment that inspires creativity.
There are several key steps to bringing a brand film to life. It all starts with scripting and storyboarding, working closely with a brand to craft a compelling and memorable narrative. Once the script is locked down, the next phase is finding the perfect faces and voices that embody your brand’s essence. Seeking out settings that enhance your story and create an authentic backdrop for your brand film shouldn’t be underestimated. Filming days can be scheduled, dedicated to capturing every important moment and making sure everything aligns with the creative vision. After shooting, the editing process usually begins – this is where the footage is carefully pieced together to create a polished final cut that genuinely reflects your brand’s message. Each step of this process is designed to tell a brand’s unique story in a way that connects, captivates and engages viewers.
In terms of brand film creation, the average turnaround time can vary significantly based on the project’s scope and complexity. Typically, a quick turnaround project might take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, allowing brands to get their message out swiftly without sacrificing quality. However, for those looking for something more comprehensive – complete with detailed storytelling and high production values – the process could extend to several months. This is where understanding your goals becomes crucial; knowing whether you need a rapid response or an in-depth exploration can help streamline the approach. We’ve had clients who opted for both styles: one brand needed a lively promotional video in just two weeks for an upcoming event, while another invested several months into crafting an intricate narrative that highlighted their mission and values through animated storytelling. Ultimately, whether you’re seeking speed or depth in your brand film creation, we can help guide you through each stage.
Creating a brand film is an exciting journey which can add genuine value to your business. If you’re ready to elevate your brand’s story through captivating visuals and compelling narratives, an engaging brand film could be the answer. Whether you’re looking to attract your audience on social media, enhance your website, or create memorable content for a live event, a well-crafted brand film can make a great difference. At Vivid, we believe that every brand has a unique story waiting to be told. With our expertise in film, motion design and animation, we’d be happy to help you articulate your story in a way that resonates with your audience. Let’s collaborate and bring your vision to life. Reach out today, and let’s start crafting something extraordinary together!
saintnicks have been appointed by Mitsubishi Pencil Company UK (MPCUK), a leader in innovative writing instruments, to handle its POSCA and uni-ball brands.
Together, both MPCUK and saintnicks will harness the power of storytelling and dynamic creative content to bring MPCUK’s uni-ball and POSCA brands closer to its customers.
Through a series of innovative campaigns and brand activations, we will be reinforcing the brands’ trusted reputations for high-quality pens and creative markers, while fostering a connection with audiences through relatable, inspiring narratives.
“We’re incredibly excited to team up with saintnicks,” said Hannah Hurling, Head of Marketing at MPCUK. “Both uni-ball and POSCA have always been about enabling creativity and self-expression, and saintnicks’ expertise in storytelling and bold creative ideas makes them the perfect partner to bring our vision to life.”
The uni-ball brand was established in 1979 and is owned by the Japanese Mitsubishi Pencil Company, which has a rich legacy dating back to 1887. Today, uni-ball is a leading name in the UK stationery market, renowned for high-quality writing instruments that combine innovation with reliability. The brand’s commitment to quality, performance and design has made it a favoured choice among students, professionals, and creators, solidifying its reputation as one of the most well-known brands in the UK market.
For over 30 years, POSCA has accompanied creativity in all its forms, quickly becoming a favourite tool for artists worldwide. Initially embraced by graffiti artists, the brand’s popularity quickly spread beyond urban spaces. Today, POSCA markers are recognised globally for their vibrant colours and versatility, making them ideal for a wide array of applications—from street art and fine art to illustration, portraits, and home crafts.
The collaboration comes at a time when consumers are seeking more authentic connections with the brands they choose. MPCUK has long been a trusted name in writing and artist tools, offering consumers writing pens and creative markers that combine quality, style, and reliability. The new partnership is set to enhance the brand’s visibility, reinforce its connection with customers, and celebrate the art of writing and the power of creativity.
This article has previously appeared on the ADLIB Blog.
Understanding Agency salaries in the South West is pivotal for job seekers and employers alike in 2025. This guide provides essential insights into the factors influencing pay scales and highlights the importance of considering additional benefits beyond salary to attract top talent.
For a detailed breakdown of digital marketing salaries in the South West, view our comprehensive salary guide or get in touch for a chat.
At ADLIB, we’re always keeping close to market trends and how things can fluctuate between organisations. Here, we aim to provide an overall range of salaries based on the spectrum of roles within the South West agency world. Factors that can influence one’s salary: the size of business and team, their location, the size and number of accounts you may be working on, management responsibilities, the industry sector, and specific marketing skills, will all have an impact.
If you choose to make a comparison, consideration should be paid beyond job title. It is worth noting that salary isn’t everything, and there are lots of other important factors to consider.
To attract the best talent, employers should also focus on:
This guide provides salary bandings for various sector roles and their respective job titles, including:
To attract and retain top-tier talent in the South West, consider the complete package: competitive salaries, hybrid working patterns, and a supportive, inclusive work environment.
Written by Tony Allen, Head of Marketing, Digital & eCommerce recruitment at ADLIB.
– Senior Appointments & Strategic Growth | Agency & In-house Marketing.
Finding a better way
Like all businesses, we are evolving to become more sustainable. Over the past 30 years, we’ve transformed significantly. Each change brought challenges and opportunities, pushing us to rethink our strategies and refine how we operate. Now, we face our most critical transformation: embracing environmental and social responsibility.
Taking the first step
A key milestone in our sustainability journey is becoming B-Corp certified. B-Corp is not just a badge but a rigorous standard requiring deep introspection and a commitment to improvement.
Through this process, we realised many of our informal sustainable practices needed to be formalised. And, has helped us structure and measure our efforts effectively. This has not only reinforced our commitment but has also provided a framework to ensure our actions are impactful.
Becoming part of the B-Hive
What excites us about B-Corp is joining a movement redefining business success to include people and the planet, not just profit. We believe businesses and agencies must work together with customers and communities to create a sustainable future for all.
Our vision goes further
We see B-Corp certification as just the beginning. It sets a baseline, but our vision extends beyond compliance. We aim to push the boundaries of what businesses can achieve in terms of positive impact. What’s even more amazing is how our team Our strategy is rooted in our core values and aims to create a world where business is a force for good, without sacrificing the environment or social equity.
This has taken a lot of hard work from our team, and most importantly has been completely driven by our employees. Their passion, energy, resilience, and commitment has made this milestone possible. Thank you Sixers!
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