With apologies for thieving Russell’s ‘Urban Spam’ phrasology, here’s some thoughts I banged out on creating effective instore marketing, that may or may not get published in Marketing Week soonish. They wanted to know what to do when shoppers even ignore instore gorillas. By the most conservative estimate, today’s consumer is bombarded with 500 advertising…

There hasn’t been much posting recently, in case you didn’t notice. It’s been rather busy, but good. I’m at that point though, where I start to feel like it’s time for a break. Thankfully the Spring pilgrimage to Mum and Dad’s in Cornwall is only two weeks away….

…as this shows. Scott found it and thought of me.

The wise and generous Rob Campbell has given a new tea mug, replete with its own biscuit holder. No doubt this will prove an invaluable comfort during the beverage wars. Rob, I hereby announce my thanks, I will treasure it despite the note………..

Regular visitors will not be surprised to learn that I’m representing tea in The Kaiser’s Ultimate Beverage Bracket. And in the first round, tea is up against mulled wine..represented by the German monarch himself. There’s so much to say about tea (and much has been said on this blog) I hardly know where to start.…

Have a look..

It was going to happen. I’m ashamed to announce my first spill. Knocked my mug clean off my desk, coffee everywhere. No one was hurt. I managed two months gaffe free (in terms of beverage incidents anyway) – not bad for me.

Last night I couldn’t walk past this bar without taking a picture. I bet it’s good since it’s named after me. But we didn’t go there, we went to Common. Lots of people, good banter and good beer. I got to tell that hotel story and proudly display my new mug. It’s taken awhile, these…

Daydream. Scientists think it’s one of our most complicated activities, the way we shape ourselves and become aware of those things we’ve felt without thinking. We need time to allow those thoughts to unfold. Lots of empty spaces that precede stumbling on the unexpected. Being bored is important sometimes. The brain sometimes needs a chance…

The Northern Planning catch up thingy is confirmed for this Thursday (21st) at Common. People will start arriving at 7.30ish. Simon chose the venue, if it’s no good blame hime.