Client

Consumer Focus is the statutory body representing consumers in the UK. Working across England, Scotland, Wales, and (on postal issues only) Northern Ireland, the organisation champions the rights of consumers.

Objective

Consumer Focus was created in 2008 to replace Postwatch, energywatch and the National Consumer Council and form a single, more powerful body. Four was appointed to manage communications for the launch of the new body, developing strong relationships with media and stakeholders and demonstrating the power, energy and expertise of Consumer Focus.

Solution

A proactive and reactive media programme, managing a busy press office and developing a contact programme for the senior team with key consumer affairs editors; a stakeholder contact programme with a regular e-newsletter and tailored events like a Vulnerable Consumers’ Workshop, and a creative media programme to ensure regular messaging about the new organisation and its ambitious programme for consumers.

Results

A successful launch with positive coverage throughout national and regional print, broadcast, online and trade media, good visibility and share of voice for senior spokespeople and strong networks of stakeholder support emerging.