Habitat launches affiliate marketing programme with Bigmouthmedia and Digital Window

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:07:34 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has been announced as having been chosen by Habitat, the international household furnishings retailer, to manage the launch of its exclusive new affiliate marketing programme in conjunction with Digital Window.

In January 2009, Habitat began creating a fully transactional website to penetrate the online shopping market which launched in November 2009. Managed by bigmouthmedia, the multi-award winning digital marketing agency, the Habitat affiliate campaign will reap the benefits of launching on both Affiliate Window and Buy.at platforms simultaneously which will offer access to the programme to a variety of preferred partners.

Andrew Girdwood, Head of Strategy at bigmouthmedia, commented: “This is a truly exciting campaign to be involved in. Not only are we working with one of the most iconic brands in UK retailing, but the involvement of both Digital Window and bigmouthmedia will see two of the digital world’s leading companies working in close partnership. We expect that dynamic to deliver some truly fantastic results.”

Denise Fender, Head of Ecommerce & Digital Marketing at Habitat, added: “Habitat is really excited to be launching their affiliate program with bigmouthmedia and Digital Window. Not only will the new program help showcase the quality and range of Habitat’s online collection, but it will also help raise brand awareness and encourage footfall to our local stores. We picked bigmouthmedia to help manage our affiliate marketing based on their experience and ability to integrate the campaign with our wider digital efforts.”

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search engine optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Bigmouthmedia launches new range of services following Google GAAC Analytics accreditation

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:35:52 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has become one of the few European digital marketing agencies to gain the coveted Google Analytics Authorised Consultants accreditation (GAAC).

The company-wide accreditation - held by only a handful of agencies worldwide - recognises bigmouthmedia's proven expertise in the analytics field. With a large pool of qualified staff working across its offices, the news means the company is now authorised to offer clients a raft of new Google Analytics services.

"This is a major breakthrough for bigmouthmedia. Gaining accreditation has been a lengthy and painstaking process, but it means that in addition to the wealth of digital marketing expertise the agency already has, we are now in the position to offer a string of Google Analytics services on a standalone basis," said Susana Inarejos, Head of Technical and Analytics Services.

As one of few European full digital marketing agencies to earn GAAC accreditation, the bigmouthmedia in-house team is now recognised by Google for its industry expertise, with the search giant recommending the agency as one of its few authorised partners. Qualification means that in addition to gaining elevated technical support from Google on any analytics issues the firm will also be able to trial and review the software's latest enhancements before they become available on the open market.

Bigmouthmedia's clients will have access to the wealth of potential information unleashed by web analytics, with the agency providing in depth analysis of their Google Analytics account, ensuring that business goals are tracked properly to improve ROI. The services offered include Google Analytics Audit, Advanced Cross-subdomain configuration, Advanced Filters and Goals setup, tracking of Flash or AJAX based websites, E-commerce tracking, In-house Google Analytics training and advanced troubleshooting.

“We are delighted to add yet another highly experienced Google Analytics expert to our consultancy network and look forward to strengthening our partnership with bigmouthmedia,” said Alan Wrafter, Google Program Manager.

Lyndsay Menzies, bigmouthmedia's Group Chief Operations Officer, added: "We're delighted to become one of the very few agencies promoted by Google as a recommended analytics partner. This qualification underlines our commitment to maintaining and expanding the company's in-house expertise while providing clients with an expanding range of industry leading digital marketing services."

Bigmouthmedia praises online retailing success stories

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:42:29 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has praised the winners of the 2010 Drapers Etail Awards for continuing to make a success of online retail despite challenging trading conditions.

Senior Retail Strategist Finlay Clark, who sat on the panel of online retailing experts judging the nominations, commended all 59 of the shortlisted candidates for making this year's selection process particularly challenging. Highlighting the high standard of entries for the 2010 awards, which celebrate success and innovation in online fashion retailing, he praised the winners of each category for proving that even in difficult economic circumstances, a well-run etailing operation can reap dividends.

"Even in the face of the worst recession to hit the industry for generations, the fashion retail sector has continued to develop, innovate and drive profits through its online retailing operations. The downturn has had the same impact upon the industry as it has every other sector, but the fashion business has demonstrated that focusing on the sales channels which provide the best and most measurable returns will still deliver competitive advantage," he said.

The winners of each of this year's 10 categories were unveiled at a stylish ceremony and party at the Bloomsbury Ballroom, one of London's most prestigious venues. While stressing the extremely high standard of entries for the 2010 Awards, Clark singled out Best Multichannel Retailer winners Schuh and M and M Direct - which came out on top of the Best Pure-play Etailer category.

"Schuh, who won the Best Multichannel Retailer category for the second year running, showed real commitment to the online space, and their ability to integrate in-store stock availability with the products offered on their site was impressive. M and M Direct also stood out because of a fantastic set of results and the phenomenal year-on-year growth they've enjoyed," added Clark.

As Bigmouthmedia’s online shopping specialist, Clark provides retail clients with a clear grasp of the digital marketing issues facing their sector, identifying where the new and future opportunities lie in this highly competitive market. Appearing at the Drapers/Retail Week sponsored E-commerce Summit, he is scheduled to provide attendees an insight into the latest developments in the field with his presentation Catching your Customer: Natural versus Paid Search in online retailing.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search Engine Optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Bigmouthmedia looks towards a pivotal 2010 for digital marketing

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 11:06:04 GMT

Bigmouthmedia predicts that 2010 will be a pivotal year for the digital marketing industry, with mobile and social media playing a significant role in a series of developments set to sweep through the sector.

Bigmouthmedia analysts believe that an evolving search landscape, the continued rise of social media and advances in mobile technology will combine to make the next year one of the most eventful in the sector's history. With these and other factors blurring the boundaries between PR, marketing and customer care, the company also predicts that the shape of the search business itself will begin to change.

"Digital marketing has always been a dynamic industry, but the introduction of real time search, the continued convergence of devices and the apparently unstoppable rise of social media have all come together at the same time, and we expect this to have a major impact upon the search landscape in 2010," said Andrew Girdwood, bigmouthmedia's Head of Search.

"The industry has matured, and already we are seeing some of the more prehistoric SEO business models out there beginning to fail. Major clients increasingly require partners with international scale, and as the downwards pressure on costs continues, small-scale agencies are going to struggle to cope in what is likely to become an environment dominated by a handful of major players."

Bigmouthmedia's sector-by-sector predictions for the year ahead indicate that the digital marketing business could be facing one of the most challenging years in its history.

Retailers are expected to continue investing in social media strategies designed to monetise direct marketing channels like Twitter and Facebook while simultaneously expanding their mobile marketing activities.

In the travel business, operators seeking to offset a fall in revenues caused by the global recession will increasingly look online. Some 57% of travel marketing budgets will be spent online in 2010, while the majority of companies are also predicted to increase spend on Social Media & Online PR and Search engine optimisation as they attempt to come to terms with this evolving channel.

In the world of finance, the advent of the widely predicted new supermarket banking services look set to dominate the sector's year. A scramble has already begun, meanwhile, to win over the significant increase in consumers expected to return online and begin shopping for services again in 2010.

"The search marketing business has weathered the economic downturn better than most, but there is no room for complacency. For every one of the opportunities these new developments bring there are technical and logistical challenges to be overcome," said Girdwood.

2010: The Year Ahead in Digital Marketing is available for download from bigmouthmedia

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search engine optimisation (SEO), PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Bigmouthmedia Travel Report reveals leap in online spending

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:01:56 GMT

Bigmouthmedia's 2010 Travel Report has revealed that travel companies are set to move the majority of their marketing spend into online advertising in 2010.

Compiled from an extensive survey of bigmouthmedia's travel clients and users of tnooz.com, the in-depth bigmouthmedia 2010 Travel Report reveals that companies intend to increase the proportion of their marketing budgets being spent online, with the 50% share allocated to digital channels in 2009 set to rise to 57% in 2010. As the industry responds to unprecedented economic pressure, a clear majority also intend to significantly increase spending on social media over the next year.

"There can be little doubt that the travel industry now truly appreciates the power and reach of digital marketing, with the proportional spend rocketing upwards from only 38% in 2008. However, with a clear majority of firms indicating that they see engaging with social media as a major challenge, it seems that many in the industry are struggling to develop effective strategies for these emerging channels," said Anneli Ritari, Senior Travel Strategist at bigmouthmedia.

While only 7% of online marketing spend was devoted to social media in 2010, 60% of the travel companies responding said they would be increasing their social media and search engine optimisation budgets next year. Interestingly, however, almost half said that they saw engaging with social media as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry in 2010.

According to the survey, the biggest online marketing opportunity awaiting travel companies in the year ahead is the savings and benefits to be had from driving synergies between the full range of online channels. Perhaps as a result of this, players in key sub-verticals such as travel comparison sites, holiday rental specialists and online agencies now anticipate spending more than 80% of their total marketing budgets online.

While paid search retained the highest portion of online budgets with an average of 37% in 2009, followed by search engine optimisation at 18% and display at 17%, indications for the next year suggest that this pattern is set to change. While overall PPC spend is likely to grow, some 60% said they would either maintain or decrease pay-per-click spending over the next 12 months, instead focusing their efforts on a blend of SEO of Online PR.

"While many of the travel companies surveyed said that the economic climate was the greatest challenge facing the industry, today's difficult financial circumstances have played a major part in driving change. Digital marketing's transparency and measurable ROI makes it an extremely attractive option to companies that need to ensure every penny of their spend is both justifiable and worthwhile," said Ritari.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest and most experienced digital marketing agency and was rated the UK's #1 Search agency for SEO and PPC in the 2009 NMA Marketing Services Guide.

Bigmouthmedia's 200+ online marketing experts across 12 international offices maximise online brand exposure for our clients by means of integrated digital strategies incorporating SEO, PPC, Social Media Marketing, Affiliate Marketing, Display Advertising, Online PR and Copywriting.

Bigmouthmedia's multilingual digital solutions deliver outstanding ROI for over 300 world leading brands including British Airways, Tesco, ebay, Sky, Cisco, BT, Comic Relief, Barclaycard and Europcar.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news.

Bigmouthmedia and Econsultancy reveal companies plan increased social media spend in 2010

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:59:28 GMT

The Social Media and Online PR Report, published by Econsultancy in association with bigmouthmedia, has revealed that most companies are planning to invest more in social media next year but are struggling to find the time and resources to manage their activity.

The report is based on a survey of over 1,100 companies and agencies, and is the most comprehensive study of its kind around how companies are using online PR and social media for marketing and customer service.

The results showed that 86% of companies plan to spend more money on social media in 2010, and a further 13% are planning to keep the same level of budget. 54% cited their biggest barrier to better social media engagement was a lack of resources, with 90% of businesses stating that social media is taking up more time internally than a year ago.

"The growth of social media and online PR has been meteoric, but until now there have been very few hard facts available on precisely how UK business is using the new channel and what they're getting in return for their investment," said Phil Gripton, Managing Director of bigmouthmedia UK.

"These statistics - the most detailed yet available - show that while an increasing number of companies are embracing social media, many are struggling to effectively manage their engagement and are consequently failing to make the most of a potentially enormous opportunity."

The research found that many companies are experimenting with social media without yet reaping any measurable benefits. Only a quarter of companies said that they have gained "real, tangible value" from social media whereas 60% said they had gained "some benefit but nothing concrete". However, 52% of respondents who are heavily involved said they have gained real value, compared to only 13% of companies who "experimented but not done much".

Michelle Goodall, Econsultancy's social media and online PR consultant at Econsultancy, said: "Before they think about their strategy and the best tactics, companies need to go back to basics and think in detail about how online PR and social media can help them deliver against their business objectives.

"The reality is that most businesses understand how to listen, what to measure and where to engage but are struggling to define the value of engagement and reputation in social spaces."

There view of the benefits of Twitter is mixxed, with 31% of respondents saying there are "tremendous opportunities" available, but half reported their companies are "open-minded but not fully convinced about the value to the business".

The majority of organisations (62%) are using the micro-blogging site for publicising new content, with 54% using the channel for marketing or brand monitoring (47%). Only 27% of companies are using Twitter as a customer service tool for reacting to issues and inquiries, while 25% use Twitter as a customer feedback tool. 7% felt that Twitter is over-hyped and a fad.

About Econsultancy
Econsultancy is the leading source of independent advice and insight on digital marketing and e-commerce. Econsultancy reports, events, online resources and training programmes help a community of over 80,000 registered marketers make better decisions, build business cases, find the best suppliers, look smart in meetings and accelerate their careers.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest and most experienced independent digital marketing agency, rated the UK's #1 Search agency for SEO and PPC in the 2009 NMA Marketing Services Guide. Over the last 10 years bigmouthmedia has successfully built an innovative portfolio of integrated and standalone digital marketing products leveraged to offer clients maximum ROI.

Employing over 200 staff in 10 countries, bigmouthmedia has built an international reputation for delivering maximised online returns and exposure for big brand customers. bigmouthmedia specialises in online brand positioning and protection, dramatically improving clients' online profile by promoting their brands and products using a variety of mediums including search engine optimisation, paid search, display advertising, affiliate marketing, online PR, media buying and providing up-to-date digital marketing news.

Bigmouthmedia and Econsultancy unveil UKs first Social Media & Online PR survey

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:57:24 GMT

Edinburgh, UK, November 10, 2009, Bigmouthmedia and Econsultancy will reveal the results of the UK's first extensive survey into the use of Social Media and Online PR at a specially convened industry summit later this month.

The results of the research, which will provide the most detailed data yet available on the extent to which UK companies have embraced social media, the methods of engagement currently employed and the value being derived from such activities, will be unveiled to an audience of invited delegates in London on November 25th. Organised by bigmouthmedia, the event will also see presentations from Facebook, Microsoft and Futurenet on the phenomenon's far-reaching impact upon the business world.

"The social media revolution has evolved from emerging trend to mainstream communications channel in a remarkably short space of time. Yet despite the increasing prominence of platforms like Twitter, until now there has been no solid data available on how companies are using it and the benefits they are deriving from the practice," said Leanne Rinning, Online PR Manager at bigmouthmedia.

"We are delighted to have partnered with Econsultancy on this research. The preliminary results are already in, and while some of the results may surprise the audience, I'm confident that our survey will cut through the hype and provide real insight into how to get the best out of this rapidly shifting channel."

Rinning, who will give a presentation on planning, executing and measuring online campaigns, will be joined on the day by Facebook's Josh Smith, who will speak on the impact of advertising on social networking platforms. Kate Box of Microsoft is scheduled to provide her take on how traditional digital and social media can work together, while Futurenet's Jessica Healy will also give an account of the publishing world's struggle to come to terms with the phenomenon.

"Social media is simply about listening and interacting with your customers, using channels that many staff will already be familiar with, such as Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Digg. It is in many ways about common sense, yet there is a lot of uncertainty in the business world about how to engage it," said Econsultancy Research Director Linus Gregoriadis.

"By engaging with customers you increase satisfaction, which is a proven way of generating repeat business and referrals. There are very few companies that wouldn't want to do that, and we believe that after attending this event, guests are going to leave with a much clearer view on how to go about it."

The event, which will take place at 76 Portland Place, London, will include lunch and networking drinks.

Notes to editors:
There are a few places available, but attendance will be strictly limited. Registration of interest can be done by contacting socialsummit@bigmouthmedia.com.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search Engine Optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Bigmouthmedia and Netsociety sign strategic partnership

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:26:12 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has announced that it has formed a partnership with the Dutch search marketing agency Netsociety.

In a move that extends Europe's biggest independent digital marketing agency's reach into the Benelux region, bigmouthmedia and Netsociety have reached an agreement that will see the companies collaborate on a range of projects for international clients. Already working together on several key campaigns, the arrangement effectively extends both firms' geographical footprint at a stroke.

"We're delighted to have formed such a close working relationship with Netsociety. The two companies are very closely matched in terms of ethos, approach to market and customer base, so after working together on a number of extremely successful ventures in the past, forming a partnership made sound business sense," said Lyndsay Menzies, Group Chief Operations Officer at bigmouthmedia.

"While Netsociety's regional expertise will afford bigmouthmedia's clients improved access to the Dutch and Belgian markets, our extensive global operations will allow our partners to provide their existing clients with an expanded international offering."

Netsociety's view of the cooperation is similar. Managing Director Maurice Pothof said: "We have found an appropriate partner in bigmouthmedia. During the initial discussions we quickly discovered how similar bigmouthmedia's DNA was to Netsociety's, and realized that a strategic partnership would create opportunities for our current and potential Dutch clients with international ambitions.”

"We deliberately do not aspire to the European expansion of our company but unlike our competitors, continuously deepen our focus on our home market in the Benelux region. Our cooperation with BMM makes Netsociety one of the few search engine marketing agencies in the Netherlands that has full European coverage," he continued.

The newly formed partnership, which will see Netsociety offer clients in Holland and Belgium the extended range of digital marketing services available from bigmouthmedia's operations in 10 countries, is already off to a flying start. Having previously co-operated on several client campaigns, the duo were recently selected to run the paid search strategy of leading Dutch travel agency transavia.com across seven markets, while other campaigns where both companies work together include Hotels.com, TW steel and Spil Games.

Ends

About Netsociety:
Founded in 2007, Netsociety is one of the leading Search Engine Marketing Agencies in the Benelux. Netsociety combines result driven online marketing expertise with the in-house development of new technologies. Netsociety has offices in Amsterdam and Brussels, the company's clients include Thomas Cook, ING, Dixons, Bookit / Weekendjeweg.nl, Brunel, Santander and UPC.

About bigmouthmedia:
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest and most experienced digital marketing agency and was rated the UK's #1 Search agency for Search Engine Optimisation and PPC in the 2009 NMA Marketing Services Guide.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news.

Bigmouthmedia appoints Mark Bole as Group CEO

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:14:33 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has announced the appointment of former Nokia Vice President Mark Bole as Group Chief Executive Officer.

Bole joins Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency with a wealth of high-level experience in the technology sector. An accomplished senior executive with a track record of running successful pan-global operations, he will take over the day-to-day management of bigmouthmedia's offices in Europe and the US as the company embarks upon the next stage of its development.

"I am delighted to be joining bigmouthmedia at such a pivotal moment in its development. It has a fantastic brand, a gilt-edged client list and is uniquely positioned to gain competitive advantage in an exploding sector, so I'm very much looking forward to being part of the next stage in the company's growth," said Bole.

Bole has 20 years experience working with dynamic, fast growth companies. He spent 12 years at Nokia in a variety of roles across the mobile giant's European and Far Eastern operations before ultimately rising to the position of Vice President. After leaving the company in 2001 he served as President and COO of the telecommunications software company Incomit prior to its acquisition by BEA systems in 2005 and most recently was Chief Executive Officer of mobile social media services provider ShoZu.

"The search for a new Group CEO has been intensive, and I believe that in Mark Bole we have picked a winner. He has held roles at a very senior level with several technology heavyweights, and has coal-face experience of running complex multi-territory European organisations as well as mergers, acquisitions and the challenges these events can throw up. He is supremely well qualified for the position" said Steve Leach, Executive Chairman at bigmouthmedia.

The announcement will see Leach - who founded bigmouthmedia from an Edinburgh basement in 1997 and turned it into a multinational company operating in ten countries and 30 languages - transition to an executive chairman position directing group strategy.

"My initial vision was to make bigmouthmedia the biggest brand in search and I think we've done pretty well on that front, but now this agency is ready for a new, even greater future. While my time as CEO has been both enjoyable and demanding, I believe the company will benefit from a fresh perspective, and am taking on a new role to allow that to happen," said Leach.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest and most experienced digital marketing agency and was rated the UK's #1 Search agency for search engine optimisation and PPC in the 2009 NMA Marketing Services Guide.

Bigmouthmedia's 200+ online marketing experts across 12 international offices maximise online brand exposure for its clients by means of integrated digital strategies incorporating SEO, PPC, Social Media Marketing, Affiliate Marketing, Display Advertising, Online PR and Copywriting.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news

Bigmouthmedia named as one of UKs fastest growing businesses

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:31:00 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has been named one of the UK's ten fastest growing technology companies for the second year running.

Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency made the list of major winners in the Deloitte Fast 50 2009 following another successful year of exponential expansion. Recording a growth rate of 4111% over the past five years, the company's top ten listing was cited by the judging panel as evidence of the online sector's growing influence.

"Trading conditions this year have been challenging to say the least, but the digital marketing sector's increasing maturity and size has enabled us to pursue an ambitious growth strategy despite the economic situation. Cost-effectiveness and measurable ROI lie at the heart of what we do, and even in the most difficult of times these qualities make for a compelling business argument," said Lyndsay Menzies, Group Chief Operations Officer at bigmouthmedia.

"We're delighted to have been ranked so highly and are obviously happy that bigmouthmedia's continued success across the group has been recognised. It’s a great boost for the entire team and underlines what a talented group of people we have here."

The Deloitte Technology Fast 50, one of the UK's foremost technology award programmes, is a ranking of the country's fastest-growing technology companies based on percentage growth over five years. Now in its 12th year, the programme honours business growth, technological innovation and UK entrepreneurial spirit.

David Halstead, Partner TMT practice and Fast 50 Chairman, Deloitte said: "The large number of software and digital marketing companies in the 2008 Deloitte Fast 50 reflects the growing maturity of online enterprises. The web is approaching the next stage of its evolution, and successful business models are becoming entrenched."

The complete list of winners is available at: http://www.deloitte.co.uk/fast50/

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: search engine optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Brookson selects bigmouthmedia to lead SEO strategy

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:47:34 GMT

Online accountancy firm Brookson has appointed bigmouthmedia to handle its search marketing activity.

A leading provider of accountancy, tax advice and support services, Brookson selected bigmouthmedia following an extensive search to identify the ideal partner to lead its digital marketing strategy. An established innovator in the sector, the move comes as the award-winning consultancy moves to establish its Navigator Money Manager portal as the UK's preeminent suite of online financial tools.

"As a company we have been going through a revolution in recent times. We have fundamentally changed our business model and are going direct to market as we look to continue the company's expansion, so clearly search engine optimisation is a critical part of that strategy," said Martin Hesketh, Managing Director at Brookson.

"Together with its status as an industry leader, bigmouthmedia's unrivalled experience in helping brands make the most of their online activity made the agency the only logical choice for the job."

Founded in 1995, Brookson was recently shortlisted as a finalist in this year's Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) awards for 'Innovation of the Year'. The company's 150-strong accountancy service now manages the financial affairs of over 9,000 customers, freelance contractors and individuals who work in business for themselves.

Brookson's Navigator Money Manager portal underpins Brookson's claim to offer one of the most innovative contractor accountant services available on the UK market. Allowing clients to access their business financial information 24/7, the system has been designed to helps customers run their businesses more effectively by providing up to date financial information at their finger tips.

Currently, ninety nine per cent of Brookson's customers used the online tool to complete their last year-end accounts and each week the online portal records an average of 4500 unique visits.

"We're delighted to be welcoming Brookson as a client. The company's focus on innovation and invention is one that we share at bigmouthmedia, and this promises to be both an exciting and challenging campaign," said Phil Acton, Head of Business Development at bigmouthmedia.

About Brookson:
Brookson is a leading provider of accountancy, tax advice and support services to freelance contractors and self employed professionals who work in business for themselves. Brookson supports people in their chosen way of working through its limited company, sole trader and umbrella company services. As a 150 strong accountancy service, managing the affairs of over 9000 customers, Brookson is committed to offer the very best service, support and advice.

About bigmouthmedia:
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search engine optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, affiliate marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

Bigmouthmedia wins Travolution Award for best use of SEO

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:59:21 GMT

Bigmouthmedia's innovative collaboration with luxury travel operator Kuoni has seen the agency win the prestigious Travolution Award for the best search marketing campaign of the year.

Walking away with the coveted prize for Best Use of search engine optimisation, Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency was recognised for an international campaign that saw Kuoni enjoy a 100% increase in number one search rankings while achieving outstanding ROI. Praising the strategy for delivering a 104% increase in total unique search visitors within a year, a panel of experts singled out the project as an example of industry best practice.

"This was a fantastic demonstration of when SEO and user experience work hand-in-hand to create a powerful new proposition, especially with Kuoni's new i-Travel proposition. The agency met all the client's objectives and produced premium results with a clear return-of-investment," said a panel spokesman.

Beating stiff competition from ambergreen, iCrossing, Latitude and Greenlight, bigmouthmedia's campaign was selected for its implementation of constantly evolving SEO strategies including the use of social media releases and the exploitation of synergies between Kuoni's PPC strategy and its search marketing activities.

"Our campaign was aimed at increasing search engine visibility, traffic and revenues, and I'm delighted that its success on all fronts has been rewarded with such a prestigious honour. Our internal staff have worked closely with bigmouthmedia throughout to deliver a particularly complex strategy, and this award is a richly deserved accolade for all involved," said Joanna Edmunds, Kuoni's Commercial Director.

Matt Rooke, eBusiness Director at Kuoni, added: "The statistics speak for themselves. Results like the 69% increase in organic search engine traffic we delivered over a single year have helped us achieve outstanding ROI on this campaign, while our use of innovative link building activities to increase rankings for targeted keyphrases and video listings has seen us earn first page rankings in Google for over 90% of our targeted keywords"

The Travolution prize rounds off a successful week for bigmouthmedia on the awards circuit. On Tuesday September 29th, the agency learned that it has also been nominated for Agency of the Year at the 2009 Marketing Industry Network Awards.

"I'm delighted to see our campaign recognised in this way. It's a tribute to the very talented team that worked side-by-side with Kuoni on a constantly evolving campaign that used the very latest search technologies to great effect," said Anneli Ritari, Senior Travel Strategist at bigmouthmedia.

Bigmouthmedia chosen to run Fujitsu PPC campaign

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:24:10 GMT

Electronics giant Fujitsu has chosen bigmouthmedia, Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency, to lead its international PPC campaign.

Fujitsu Technology Solutions GmbH selected the Edinburgh based search engine optimisation company following a multi-agency pitch. Bigmouthmedia will now lead the company's paid search advertising campaign in more than 25 countries worldwide, including Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

David Hardy, bigmouthmedia group's international sales and marketing director, commented on the deal saying: "We're delighted to be working for such an internationally renowned brand like Fujitsu. One of bigmouthmedia's key strengths is our international scope, and our demonstrable expertise in running complex multi-language campaigns has been a key factor in winning this account."

He added: "Over the past 12 years we have established a proven track record in managing big brands across multiple territories, and I am confident we will enjoy similar success with our strategy for what promises to be a challenging and exciting campaign."

Employing more than 10,000 members of staff, Fujitsu Technology Solutions GmbH is part of the global Fujitsu group, which offers IT-based business solutions in 70 countries worldwide. The innovative technology company was searching for an agency that could manage all of its campaigns across multiple target markets from a central location, which led them to bigmouthmedia.

Fujitsu's digital marketing requirements also included an increase in the profile, turnover and traffic on their international sites as well as the capacity to oversee new product and service launches. Beginning work immediately, bigmouthmedia now develops and manages Fujitsu's PPC campaigns in more than 25 countries, including Italy, Spain, Turkey, Scandinavia and the Eastern European countries.

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest and most experienced digital marketing agency and was rated the UK's #1 Search agency for Search Engine Optimisation and PPC in the 2009 NMA Marketing Services Guide.

Bigmouthmedia's 200+ online marketing experts across 12 international offices maximise online brand exposure for our clients by means of integrated digital strategies incorporating SEO, PPC, social media marketing, affiliate marketing, display advertising, online PR and copywriting.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news.

For further media information please contact
Iain Bruce
Media Strategist
bigmouthmedia
51 Timberbush
Edinburgh
EH6 6QH
+44 (0)845 130 8992
twitter.com/bigmouthmedia

Bigmouthmedia welcomes Google's 'game-changing' Adsense announcement

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:15:13 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has responded to Google's decision to open up its Adsense system to third party networks by stating that if successful, the move will change the shape of the online display advertising industry forever.

Under the terms of the policy change, advertising networks that have traditionally focused activity on big brand sites will now have access to Google's extensive network of blogs, forums and websites. Opening up a potential new revenue stream for thousands of site operators worldwide, the move underlines the search giant's determination to extend its reach beyond text advertising and into the world of display.

"This is an event that should make all intelligent publishers and advertisers think hard about their activities. Google is clearly determined to make a serious impact upon the display sector and if this move works, their dominance over online advertising will be extended," said Lyndsay Menzies, Chief Operations Officer at bigmouthmedia.

"Traditional ad buyers will face a new world if Google manage to make this work. They’ll be looking at an environment where site owners can block entire networks if they don’t perform or can block specific advertisers. Display will be less about big deals and negotiating with decision makers and will become much more like search marketing in terms of its scientific and performance led nature."

Welcoming Google’s insistence that only networks that meet their privacy, speed and quality guidelines will be included in the expanded AdSense, bigmouthmedia believes that the move will require significant changes to the thought process behind a display campaign. Micro-management will become more important as individual publishers are given the opportunity to opt out of entire ad networks or ban ads from certain sites.

Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency also notes that the move will be seen as bad news not only for the third-party networks which Google will not qualify, but also for any third-party bid management platform that fails to integrate with the extended system.

"This is a very interesting move which will work if the thousands of AdSense publishers out there support the move. If there’s enough demand from the AdSense publisher community then ad networks will certainly not want to pass on the opportunity,” said Andrew Girdwood, Bigmouthmedia's Head of Search.

"If Google get enough extra volume of image ads through this then, as a publisher, why wouldn’t you simply install the AdSense code and let everyone engage in a bidding war to display on your site? There'll be no need to pay third parties to strike deals with you, and that will mean a significant increase in revenues for existing advertising platforms."

Bigmouthmedia's 200+ online marketing experts across 12 international offices maximise online brand exposure for our clients by means of integrated digital strategies incorporating SEO, PPC, Social Media Marketing, Affiliate marketing, Display Advertising, Online PR and Copywriting.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily Digital marketing news.

Bigmouthmedia welcomes Microsoft Yahoo deal as a serious challenge to Google

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:54:35 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has welcomed reports of a new search partnership between Yahoo and Microsoft's Bing search engine, stating that the new arrangement could rejuvenate competition in a market currently dominated by Google.

Although details of the deal are as yet unclear, reports from numerous credible news outlets worldwide suggest that after many months of negotiation, the global giants are set to unveil an agreement that will see Yahoo sell search ads under Microsoft's nascent Bing brand. While estimates of the global market share the partnership will hold vary from 12% to 30%, Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency believes that the news will have a positive impact upon the industry.

"It's been 18 months since the rumour mill first started touting the possibility of a deal involving Yahoo and Microsoft, and the industry as a whole will be delighted to see what's become the search business' longest-running soap opera finally approaching a conclusion. The devil will be in the detail, but given the alarming dominance that Google has held over the market for so long, the prospect of a serious challenge to their position is good news for everyone," said Lyndsay Menzies, Chief Operations Officer at bigmouthmedia.

"Although the impact in the UK will be minimal, with the combined entity still only accounting for a market share of around 5%, competition in any market is good for consumers. If the partnership succeeds in growing their market share still further, the renewed challenge could force Google to become more competitive."

With the precise details of the agreement still a closely guarded secret, the news that Yahoo has finally succumbed to Microsoft's advances has spawned widespread speculation over the deal's possible ramifications. While the prospect of a serious competitor to Google's Adwords system is being touted as a move that could help push PPC advertising prices downwards, other commentators have suggested that the deal could force the search giant to reconsider its policy against paying commission to partner agencies.

"There are still more questions than there are answers about this deal, but If Yahoo's paid search ads are powered by Bing then we will have another credible search engine to consider for paid search budgets. That may result in some instability as bid management platforms adapt to cope with the new landscape, but it will help keep cost-per-click prices down," said Andrew Girdwood, bigmouthmedia's Head of Search.

"But if Bing is only going to supply Yahoo with organic results then it still means Yahoo is out of the search game. They'll not be developing their search engine, are unlikely to return to it and will in essence become an ad management platform - the long term effects of which remain to be seen."

Bigmouthmedia's 200+ online marketing experts across 12 international offices maximise online brand exposure for our clients by means of integrated digital strategies incorporating SEO, PPC, Social Media Marketing, Affiliate marketing, Display Advertising, Online PR and Copywriting.

Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily Digital marketing news.

For further media information please contact
Iain Bruce
Media Strategist
bigmouthmedia
51 Timberbush
Edinburgh
EH6 6QH
+44 (0)845 130 8992
twitter.com/bigmouth_aff

Bigmouthmedia releases 2009 Digital PR survey

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:49:19 GMT

Bigmouthmedia's 2009 online PR survey has revealed that despite a marked rise in interest, the majority of the UK's leading public relations firms are still failing to get to grips with the world of online media.

According to the latest updated survey of Britain's 100 leading press and public relations agencies, the number of PR firms offering online PR and social media services has undergone a sharp rise over the last year, with 40% now claiming to provide a range of internet services.

Representing an increase of 90.5% compared with the 2008 survey results, the boost is evidence of the growth of a interest in online PR from traditional agencies.

"The PR industry is certainly beginning to come to terms with online PR and social media, no doubt motivated by the proven benefits of digital campaigns, but it is less clear whether the sector fully understands the discipline. It is not simply a case of replicating your offline press releases on the web, but requires specialist expertise and an informed understanding of how people engage with news, brands and products on the web," said Leanne Rinning, Online PR Manager at bigmouthmedia.

"Online PR has to be viewed as part of your overall online marketing mix. It is most effective and more measurable when dovetailed with your SEO, PPC and display activity."

The survey also reveals that the number of agencies publishing blogs has doubled in the last year. Despite widespread recognition of the value and importance of blogging as a media tool, however, a surprising 78% are still failing to produce their own.

Some 60% of the agencies surveyed admitted that they have yet to include online PR as part of their service offering. However, only 45% of the operations that claimed to have new media covered actually published their own blogs.

Taken as a whole, only 22% of UK PR consultancies currently use blogs to communicate with clients, colleagues and the wider marketplace.

London outfits appear to have maintained their lead in embracing the expanding field. A clear 48% of the firms surveyed who were from the capital offer online PR, with 30% publishing their own blogs.

Companies from elsewhere in the UK fared much worse in the research, with only 32% offering online PR and just 14% publishing their own blogs.

For further media information please contact
Iain Bruce
Media Strategist
bigmouthmedia
51 Timberbush
Edinburgh
EH6 6QH
(44) 131 555 4848
http://twitter.com/bigmouth_aff

Bigmouthmedia on Bing

Thu, 28 May 2009 16:46:14 GMT

Bigmouthmedia has welcomed the launch of Microsoft's Bing search engine for introducing renewed competitive impetus and consumer choice to a marketplace currently dominated by Google.

Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency praised the new service, due to be unveiled on the back of a reported $100million promotional campaign, as a potentially crucial landmark in the online search sector's development. Citing Microsoft's pan-European approach and collaboration with key agencies in advance of the launch, bigmouthmedia believes that Bing could add a refreshing new dynamic to the industry.

"Competition is always welcome. It has been some time since the search industry had a realistic alternative to Google, and if Microsoft's new engine can provide that then it will be of obvious benefit to both digital marketers and consumers alike," said bigmouthmedia CEO Steve Leach.

"Only time will tell how successful Bing will be, but if Microsoft can show the average household searcher that there really is an alternative, then this could be a pivotal moment in our industry's evolution."

Praising Microsoft for its willingness to work closely with key SEO agencies in advance of the launch, bigmouthmedia expects the Redmond giant to get a number of things right. While services such as Yahoo do not treat large parts of Europe as distinct territories, Bing is expected to see its European launch followed by the introduction of a range of country-specific services. Similarly, it is expected that we will also see Bing evangelists active in Europe and not just the US.

Bigmouthmedia's initial assessment of the new service is that in its initial incarnation Bing will do enough to generate coverage and interest but be familiar enough not to scare users away. Microsoft also clearly understands the importance of searcher confidence in relation to the perception of good search results.

"While the search sector is excited by the prospect of a new service, only time will tell if Bing is to have a permanent impact. The industry has seen numerous new engines launched over the years - including several by Microsoft - and it's fair to say they haven't been hugely successful," said Andrew Girdwood, Head of Search at bigmouthmedia.

"There are some tough questions that Microsoft has to answer. Just how are they going to get average household searchers to try Bing for the first time, and how long will the company be willing to support their current Bing strategy if progress is slow? Until we know the answers, the jury will still be out on this one."

About bigmouthmedia
Founded in 1997, bigmouthmedia is Europe's largest independent digital marketing agency. With a team of over 200 staff located across 13 offices in 10 countries on 3 continents, the company maximises exposure for major brands online through a variety of fully integrated digital marketing channels: Search Engine Optimisation, PPC, Online Media Planning, Affiliate Marketing, Social Networking, Brand Monitoring, Online PR and Web Analytics. Bigmouthmedia also provides up to date daily digital marketing news to ensure clients are fully informed and aware of all industry developments.

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