The Bank News

TRUPHONE LAUNCHES

2010-03-04T00:00:00

This week saw the launch of Truphone in UK and US with a campaign from The Bank to support their ‘Local Anywhere’ service – a new global mobile package which offers local rates and local numbers on one SIM.

The campaign carries the line ‘turn global communications on its head’ taking its inspiration from Truphone’s revolutionary technology.

Creative captures this idea by showing what appears to be typical London and New York city street scenes, but upon closer inspection not all is as it seems - signs have quite literally been turned on their head. Looking into this even further some signs refer to Truphone’s key benefits such us a flipped street sign reading ‘No Roaming’ or a bar called ‘Stay Connected’ encouraging consumers to question their current telecoms service provider and look into the possibilities Truphone can offer.

The campaign is specifically targeted to businesses and consumers who communicate frequently on an international basis so activity is focused around transatlantic travel with work appearing in in-flight magazines and TV and posters at airports with fleet of Truphone liveried taxis. TV will be running on business relevant TV channels specifically targeted at the international community.

Truphone are a visionary client and ‘Local Anywhere’ a truly innovative product. Last year when The Bank won the business, Truphone were looking for a partner in every sense of the word and today The Bank are very much enjoying helping them realise the potential of such a great brand.

2010 ADVERTISING SHOWREEL

2010-03-01T00:00:00

The Bank has come a long way since opening its doors in 1992 in the heart of a recession. From a background in film and live events working alongside its founding Client Orange to develop their brand from the inside out, it launched The Bank Advertising Agency in 2005 with the help of another forward-thinking partner in the shape of SABMiller.

As you will see from viewing the showreel, The Bank is not a conventional agency – not only does it have an unconventional background and capabilities, but it embraces communication solutions beyond the traditional. It is not about being unconventional for the sake of it, The Bank is founded on a belief that it is important to question and challenge conventions as it has proven to deliver outstanding results. And as the esteemed Oscar Wilde once said "conventional wisdom is always conventional, but rarely wisdom”.

Today we are three companies in one:

Advertising Agency

Film, Commercials and Corporate TV Production Company

Live Events and Experiential Agency

Should you wish to find out more, The Bank would certainly like to welcome you, just make sure you schedule it over lunch for a taste of their home cooking. For more information, please contact Nicole Reid – Marketing Director, Advertising +44 (0)20 7612 8000.

SAMUEL L JACKSON FOUNDATION

2010-02-25T00:00:00

Many leading Irish personalities came out in force to attend the Night For Love Charity Ball in aid of The Samuel L Jackson Foundation and Irish Autism Action on February 13, 2010 in Dublin, Ireland. It was a fabulous night; Dionne Warwick entertained the audience which comprised of luminaries such as Keith Duffy, Ronan Keating and Bertie Ahern. The Bank was proud to assist in producing this magnificent event.

THE MARK ROLLS OUT AROUND THE WORLD

2010-02-12T00:00:00

The new global Grolsch campaign that The Bank are developing includes ambient tags to create intrigue about The Mark, Grolsch’s new mnemonic used in communications. These are projected onto walls and places with character all over the world including Poland, Russia & South Africa.

This image shows The Mark projected onto a statue in the centre of Warsaw, Poland. A URL is also included to drive traffic to the website.

URGENTLY WANTED

2010-02-09T00:00:00

We have some great opportunities here at The Bank for the following positions...

1. Graphics Specialist

Full time graphics specialist required, with a minimum 4 years commercial experience demonstrating creativity using Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, Photoshop and Illustrator to a high standard. Ability in Flash and Final Cut Pro is also a real advantage. Must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment and take direction from Art Directors and Creative Directors. Must have excellent design/typography skills and be able to generate a project from concept to completion and work with a small team of animators, designers and editors on ever changing briefs and to tight deadlines. The successful candidate should have experience developing layouts and storyboards and also providing Art Direction to junior/external Motion Graphics Artists.

2. Senior Film Producer

Experienced proactive film producer needed, preferably with an advertising agency/production company background. This person should have a thorough knowledge of agency procedures and broadcast post production including managing offline and online edits, graphics, music, artists, international adapts etc. In addition they should be fairly self-sufficient in terms of organising their own shoots with any corporate film experience a bonus. The ideal candidate will posses strong client handling skills and the ability to work on different projects simultaneously.

3. Editor

Competent FCP editor, with creative flair and attention to detail required to edit content for a high profile UK client. Should be comfortable working autonomously and have a good technical knowledge of digital delivery formats and specifications. Previous experience in a full Time editing role preferable.

Please send CVs marked for the attention of Hannah Bentley referencing the specific job title you are interested in e.g. Graphics Specialist, Senior ilm Producer or Editor to opportunities@thebank.co.uk

4. Producer – Events/Experiential

Experienced proactive producer needed to support a small but busy team for the next 3 months with a possible full time contract to follow. This person should have a varied knowledge of producing different kinds of events from corporate to experiential. Strong content skills & pitch leading would make you an ideal candidate. This role would suit a hard working, ambitious producer who wants to work on great projects in a top agency.

Salary - dependent on experience.

Please send CVs to Jaclyn Watson, opportunities@thebank.co.uk

5. Account Director

Many thanks for all the people who applied, this position has now been filled. We would genuinely like to thank you for your interest in The Bank and wish you all the future success wherever your career takes you.

Graduate Internships

For all those applicants who have not been contacted, The Bank would like to sincerely thank them for their interest and wish them a successful future.

We were overwhelmed by such a positive response and the quality of candidates applying. It has certainly been a tough selection process.

The Bank are currently interviewing final candidates and will be able to announce the positions soon.

THE BANK GOES TO THE BRITS

2010-02-08T00:00:00

The Bank Agency and clients totalling 110 went to the 30th BRITS Awards last night which was hosted by Pater Kay and included performances from Lady GaGa, Kasabian, Jay-Z & Alicia Keys, Cheryl Cole, JLS, Lily Allen and of course Robbie Williams, who received the 'Life Time Achievement Award.' A fabulous time was had by all!

scooterMAN

2010-02-07T00:00:00

The Bank have created a campaign for chauffeur service scooterMAN, who provide a sensible and safe driving alternative in various cities across the country. The way it works is that scooterMAN arrives on a scooter which is then folded-up and placed in the boot of the car, allowing the scooterMAN chauffer to drive customers home in their own car - “You Drink. We Drive”.

The campaign objective was to drive interest and awareness of scooterMAN and to encourage its cynical target to think twice about the potential dangers of drink driving. Consumer research identified that the target, primarily young male drivers aged between 18-25, were likely to think twice about drink driving if they felt they could be left seriously injured as a result.

The interactive element of the campaign centres around beer mats which react with the coldness of a glass to reveal a circular stain which becomes the wheel of a wheelchair. This draws a simple message that drink driving can lead to serious injury and the beer mats have proved creative, innovative, relevant and above all a cost effective way of communication.

THE STUDENT MARK

2010-02-05T00:00:00

Rebecca MacPhee, a talented student from Birmingham City University was so inspired by The Mark that she developed some of her own work as part of her studies in Visual Communications.

Rebecca recently travelled to London to meet Alex McReynolds, Creative Director at The Bank who originally designed the unique and intriguing symbol for Grolsch. Alex was so impressed with Rebecca’s work, that he has subsequently offered her work experience when her studies finish this summer.

THE BANKS'S NOKIA BASH MAKES FRONT PAGE NEWS

2010-02-01T00:00:00

On the front page of Februarys 'Event Magazine', features the Nokia Christmas Party which took place on Thursday 10th December at Battersea Power Station and was the inaugural event at the new space, The Boiler Room, inside the world famous building.

The Bank Events Co. was responsible for all elements of the event organisation from the live show to theming and food and drink. The company also undertook party invitation management.

Artists included "Diversity", this years winner of "Britain's Got Talent" and the legendary "Human League."

THE BANK'S INTERN PROGRAMME

2010-02-01T00:00:00

The Bank's Intern Programme which started in October '09 following over 500 applications has been a great success. Two full time positions have been filled - Tom Aizenberg in the Creative Services Department (Print Production) and Evren Olgun also in the Creative Services (Film & Editing Production).

The company intends to continue this throughout 2010, so if you are interested feel free to email us at opportunities@thebank.co.uk

PERONI DOWN UNDER

2010-01-29T00:00:00

One of the most successful markets for Peroni Nastro Azzurro is Australia. Thursday 28th saw the brand’s Open Air Cinema take place with the iconic back drop of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.

Picture shows the Peroni Calendario campaign. For more please go to www.calendarioperoni.com

DOHALAND

2010-01-20T00:00:00

On Wednesday 13th January, The Bank Events Co. designed, produced & successfully executed the event for the inauguration of Qatar's single most significant urban renewal project, the Musheireb (Arabic: Place where one can draw water from).

The groundbreaking ceremony was lauched by HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. The 35 hectare, six-year-long project in five phases foresees a vibrant and thriving development with people and communities at its heart.

I'M WITH THE BANK

2010-01-18T00:00:00

Celebrities from all over the world have asked, pleaded and begged to have their photos taken with members of The Bank.

Here are a few favourites, including Rich with Sir Roge, Hannah and the Mayor of London, Jackie backstage with Ana Matronic from The Scissor Sisters, Tanya and Taylor, Ryan holding up Sir Alex, Louise and Buffy star David Boreanaz and not forgetting Rob with the legendary Hylda & Arthur.

THE CARPHONE WAREHOUSE

2010-01-11T00:00:00

The Bank is delighted to be working with one of the most successful retail brands in the UK, The Carphone Warehouse. The Bank is responsible for the maintenance of their new Eye Openers digital project including film production and digital support. The Eye Opener channel has seen great success to date and was voted within the top 100 most viewed channels as we began 2010. Stephanie Beattie joins The Bank as Producer on this project which enhances The Bank’s digital credentials.

GOING DUTCH!

2010-01-06T00:00:00

The Bank has opened an office in Amsterdam to help service the Royal Grolsch account. Situated on the Singelgracht in the centre of one of the world's great cities, the office has accommodation included and the company hopes it will prove the start of a successful new enterprise in Holland.

RING IN THE NEW!

2009-12-22T00:00:00

The Bank has every reason to enter the New Year, indeed the new decade, with enormous optimism. The company has continued to trade profitably throughout the world economic crisis whilst continuing to expand and consolidate the business.

2010 will see a major sales drive on the back of considerable success in the last quarter of 2009. The Business Development Department is now complete with the addition of Louise Henry, ex- Richmond Events, who joins as Business Development Director for The Bank Events Co.

Tristan Connell (MD of The Bank Advertising Co.) will oversee the team which comprises of Nicole Reid Business Development Director - The Bank Advertising Co. (ex- Lowe Worldwide), Sharon Baker - Business Development Director - The Bank Film Co. (ex- Worldwide Productions) and Hannah Kennedy Clark Business Development Manager (ex- Creative Review).

The lack of awareness of The Bank brand is also being addressed with the appointment of PR Company Limelight.

The Bank wishes everybody a happy & prosperous new year!

1,000 CARRY ON AT KOKO!

2009-12-16T00:00:00

Over 1,000 people arrived at KoKo in Camden to celebrate The Bank's "Carry On Christmas" Party.

And what a "Carry On" it turned out to be, as most people chose to dress as characters from the iconic British films. Costumes ranged from Cowboy to Cleo, from Police to Army and more nurses and matrons than you could shake a stick at (if you know the expression.)

"Marner Brown" performed a set including the soundtrack from the global Grolsch commercial produced by The Bank, whilst "ABC" performed their hits from the 1980's that had previously graced the venue known in those days as Camden Palace.

Whilst these artists provided the highlight of the evening the lowlight was undoubtedly The Bank's performance of "With a little help from my friends" and a mass Carry-On-Oke.

Hope you enjoyed our “Carry On Christmas” Party and in case anyone needed reminding just how much they enjoyed it, look at the photo evidence on flickr.

TRUPHONE PRODUCTION STARTS

2009-11-25T00:00:00

The Bank was appointed in September as Global Advertising Agency for cutting edge telecommunications brand TRUPHONE. It re-established contact with Truphone's CMO Ian Pond who was a client of The Bank during the company's long relationship with Orange.

Shooting in New York took place on 23rd November and continues in London at the beginning of December. Work on the brand identity is now complete and the launch is set for January initially in UK, USA & Holland.

LIVECOM AWARDS 2009

2009-11-14T00:00:00

The Bank is delighted to announce that ROTA’s ‘Release the Power’ Charity Auction Gala Dinner in Doha has been named by IVCA LiveCom Awards as the winner in its category... and what a catagory.

International Campaigns: for the use of live events created to generate awareness for a cause, project, or charity without the specific target of generating revenue, which should otherwise be entered into Commercial and Promotion

This is the third year in a row that The Bank has won at these awards.

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS

2009-11-08T00:00:00

The Bank makes an annual pilgrimage to the worlds most famous recording studio, the EMI studios in Abbey Road. Among the songs we have destroyed in the past are Hey Jude, Do they know it's Christmas & Happy Christmas (War is Over).

The recording of 'With a little help from my friends' takes place on Tuesday 8th December and the company not only sings badly but records the whole track (including strings) in a similar manner. The result will be on YouTube and performed at the Christmas Party on Tuesday 15th December.

SIR BOB AND CHER HELP RAISE $20M FOR ROTA

2009-11-02T00:00:00

Friday 30th October witnessed the 3rd Annual Dinner and Auction for Qatar based charity ROTA. It was attended by Sir Bob Geldof, Cher, Sir Ben Kingsley and Josh Hartnett (pictured with The Bank Events Co. MD Jaclyn Watson.) Cat Stevens performed live at the event which raised over $20 million on the night.

The Bank in Qatar and London were responsible for the event production, content origination and filming in Doha.

ROTA (Reach Out To Asia) is a fund devoted to providing educational opportunities throughout Asia.

For more information on ROTA visit www.reachouttoasia.org

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2009

2009-11-01T00:00:00

Once again The Bank in association with Shell and The Royal British Legion lit the London Eye red and projected moving images of current soldiers in Afghanistan and poppies to commemorate Armistice Day.

CARRY ON CHRISTMAS!

2009-10-28T00:00:00

The Bank’s infamous Christmas Party is confirmed for TUESDAY 15TH DECEMBER with the hilarious theme of “Carry On Christmas”. More comical details will follow as soon as we’ve thought of them.

If you work with us, or indeed we work for you, and you haven’t been invited but you’re desperate to come please e-mail hannahkc@thebank.co.uk

CLARION CALL FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK

2009-10-18T00:00:00

Real Stories is a series of direct response commercials for Cancer Research UK. The Bank was asked to create a powerful campaign that would stand out in this highly competitive market, one that was dynamic enough to appeal to a wide target audience and compelling enough to have real longevity.

The message of the campaign is that everyone can afford to donate just £2, and that small individual contributions together will make an enormous difference. Cancer survivors were asked to talk candidly about their cancer journeys and to ask for £2 a month on behalf of Cancer Research UK.

It was filmed as almost ‘fly on the wall’ to keep it real. The heart warming testimonies gathered obviously struck home because the client has reported an amazing 36% increase compared to the previous campaigns response rates.

To watch the commercial click here.

PORT ROYAL PATTIES

2009-10-15T00:00:00

The Bank is pleased to announce that they have been appointed by Jamaican Patty producer, Port Royal, to develop their brand strategy, refresh their brand visual identity and re-design key branded elements.

Port Royal was started in 2001 through a passion to bring the real taste of Jamaica to the UK, identifying a niche in the market for authentic tasting Jamaican patties. The business has grown year on year and now supplies large retailers such as Tesco and Asda along with other wholesale food outlets.

The Bank’s Creative Director, Alex McReynolds said, “This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our creativity and help this exciting FMCG business grow.”

BANK TRANSFERS

2009-10-15T00:00:00

The Bank have continued to build their team with the addition of Andrew Barrington as Business Director across the three SABMiller brands (Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell and Grolsch) managed globally by The Bank. Andrew was formally Group Head at Saatchi & Saatchi.

The summer transfer market saw the signing of Nicole Reid from Lowe Worldwide in the role of Head of New Business. She joins a number of recent signings including Robin Lauffer (ex UK Group Head of Strategy & Insight at Euro RSCG & Executive Planning Director at McCann Erickson) who has joined as Head of Planning.

Anne Hopkins has joined in the newly created role of Creative Content Planner, having previously been a Content Director at BBH. Lucy McCarthy has been added to the planning department, having previously worked at McCann Erickson and brand consultancy Sparkler.

Josie Brown (ex-Iris), Gordon Gray (Fallon) and Robert Armstrong (Fallon) have strengthened the Account Management Team along with Janice Chan and Katie Warner.

Hannah Kennedy Clark has joined the company from Creative Review and will report to Nicole in her role as Business Development Manager. Sharon Baker (formally at The Edge, Jacaranda & Jack Morton) is also joining the Company to boost sales for The Bank Film Company.

Alex McReynolds returned to The Bank as Creative Director last year, following a three year spell at Y & R, whilst Ryan Shaw (Live & Breathe) has also come back to the company to direct the creative output on Pilsner Urquell. Rich Ward (who created one of the most loved slogans of all time "Weebles wobble but they don't fall down") has also joined with junior creatives Jai Harji and Sean McCullough completing the line up.

Sarah Clark (ex AMV) has taken over the role of Creative Services Director.

The company's administration and finance functions have been boosted by the arrival of Zsofia Szecseny (Usage Negotiation & Tracking) and ex-Saatchi Purchasing Manager Alexandra Focaccia.

After 9 years at The Bank Head of CGI, James Lownes, has left to pursue his own no doubt nefarious interests but delightfully has been replaced by Chris Rolf who joins recent addition Sebastian Szarszewski.

The scheme to bring in interns has been started, with the arrival of Sol Wei and Tom Aizenberg.

CELEBRATING AUTHENTIC ITALIAN STYLE AND DESIGN

2009-10-14T00:00:00

To strengthen Peroni Nastro Azzurro’s relationship with Italian design giant Alessi, The Bank created and produced the Peroni Blue Ribbon Design Awards. This included designing the Award’s logo, look and feel, all communications and four large scale exhibitions across the United Kingdom.

The Peroni Blue Ribbon Design Awards encouraged designers from all over the world to submit entries in the form of sketches, renders and prototypes that centred around the authentic Italian occasion of Aperitivo. The Awards received almost 2,000 entries and three winners, one of which is the above olive tree with tapered steel toothpicks, were selected by a panel of high profile members of the Design community headed up by Aberto Alessi. Other judges included Stefano Giovannoni, world renowned designer; Alberto Gozzi, research consultant for Alessi; and Ekow Eshun, artistic director of the ICA in London.

The Bank liaised with the 97 finalists from all over the world to receive and produce prototypes. The best of these prototypes and films, projections and banners produced by The Bank went on display at the ICA, kicking off with a blue carpet celebrity event also produced by The Bank.

The exhibition then went on tour to Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester, each with its own launch event and Aperitivo evenings open to the public where Aperitivo and Peroni Nastro Azzurro could be sampled.

GROLSCH LAUNCHES

2009-10-07T00:00:00

SABMiller plc, one of the world’s leading brewers, today unveiled a new positioning and campaign for its international beer brand, Grolsch. The brand’s heritage and non-conformist ideals are harnessed in its new positioning as a ‘charismatic maverick’.
The new campaign revolves around ‘The Mark’, an intriguing symbol derived from the Grolsch logo, and will be executed through events, outdoor advertising, television and cinema adverts.

Since SABMiller acquired the Grolsch business and brand in February 2008, work has been going on to create a strong, differentiated positioning and assets for deployment in the brand’s key markets. This launch marks a critical stage in Grolsch’s global development.

Ronald van Amerongen, Global Brand Director for Grolsch said: “We wanted to find a way to move Grolsch from a brand with the iconic Swingtop, to a brand which is a global icon in itself. The new campaign will help to deliver this by bringing Grolsch’s unique character to life in a charismatic and intriguing way.”

This also includes a television and cinema commercial created by The Bank. The ad follows one man’s journey through life with The Mark featuring as a recurring symbol, highlighting meaningful moments along the way. Consumers will also be directed to a new website, the-mark.org, a place of inspiration and discovery which will host original content such as music, art and insider information as well as pulling in content recommended by users. It will also detail the coolest places to drink Grolsch.

Ian Cassie, creative director of The Bank said: “This campaign is about harnessing the power of symbols to intrigue consumers and convey Grolsch’s maverick character. The Mark is shorthand for Grolsch’s charisma, craftsmanship and artistry.”

The new assets have been developed in alliance with those markets which have been identified by SABMiller as key for Grolsch’s development and will initially be launching in Poland and Russia.

To watch the commercial click here.

FILM FESTIVAL

2009-09-20T00:00:00

The Bank Film Company has recorded its best quarter’s trading since it started in 1992. Over 30 Films have been completed or commissioned during the period including a Global TVC for iconic Dutch brand Grolsch and work for Luup, Candy & Candy, ROTA, Heesen, Coutts, TUI, Logica, Shell and Zurich.

NEW CORPORATE FILM SHOWREEL

2009-09-16T00:00:00

We’ve finally finished our new corporate film showreel! We were galvanised into action when Sharon Baker joined us as Marketing Director of Corporate Film for The Bank Film Company. She felt that the old one with excerpts from ‘Gone with the Wind’ and ‘The Jazz Singer’ was looking a bit dated.

Sharon joins us with a wealth of production experience having worked with some of our competitors but is very excited about promotion to the Champions League. We hope that prospective clients will make her feel very welcome by putting nice film projects her way. To view it click here.

BE SPECIAL

2009-08-27T00:00:00

TUI has commissioned The Bank to produce a 3 part series to celebrate events that illustrate customer service that is "beyond the call of duty". The in-house Bank film crew with Producer Nicola Roberts and Director Toa Stappard set off for sunny Mallorca, where real life situations were recreated to capture the original drama and emotion which will be inter-cut with interviews.

This will be watched online by 17,000 people at Tui over the next month.

IT'S STILL LA DOLCE VITA FOR PERONI NASTRO AZZURRO

2009-08-14T00:00:00

Peroni Nastro Azzurro was held up by The Times today (Friday 14th August) as an example of a brand bucking the recession. The article outlines how the brand has grown from strength to strength with UK sales leaping 93% in the past three years, due to highly creative and carefully targeted advertising. The article puts particular emphasis on the stunning campaigns created by The Bank since the Global Launch in 2004, which have helped to “create an aura of style, luxury and cachet in keeping with its Italian heritage.”

WORK ON GROLSCH STARTS

2009-08-03T00:00:00

Following The Bank's appointment as Global Integrated Agency for SABMiller Brand Grolsch (see "Three beers for The Bank"), the company has begun production on print, press and film. The commercial was shot in South Africa at the beginning of August using The Bank's Cape Town operation and will be used in a number of markets.

New details on the Grolsch campaign coming soon.

MARNER BROWN RECORD FOR GROLSCH

2009-07-28T00:00:00

Marner Brown's "The Open Road" was recorded at Metropolis Studios in Chiswick for the latest Grolsch Global TVC. The finished track took two days to record, remix and perfect and epitomises the very essence of being a maverick.

Formed in 2004, Marner Brown are the next phase of Twickenham’s Rock and Roll Legacy. Fiachra Kerrigan (Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar), Aaron A Grimes (Lead Guitar), Jacob Hollebon (Bass Guitar), John Wildgoose (Keyboards, Backing Vocals) and Coz Kerrigan (Drums) are making music exciting, energetic and raw again. Over the past three years they have played with and supported some great acts, including touring with The Feeling, supporting Babyshambles and Whitesnake, The Towers of London as well as headlining the T4 Popworld Promotes Tour. They also are won the VIRGIN XTREME Best Indie Band at the 2007 INDY awards out of 40,000 live acts.

When asked in January 2008 by Graeme Thompson of 'The Word Magazine' what bands would he be listening to? Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood said "Another band I saw the other day are Marner Brown - They are really good. They had a bit of a Led Zep / Guns n Roses type thing"

GROSSO SIGNS FOR PERONI

2009-07-23T00:00:00

The man who scored the winning penalty for Italy in the 2006 World Cup, Fabio Grosso, has signed a sponsorship deal with Peroni Nastro Azzurro.

This follows an agreement last year with the FIGC (Italian Football Federation) and Birra Peroni, for Peroni Nastro Azzurro to be the official beer sponsor of the Italian National Football Team (''The Azzurri!'')

PILSNER URQUELL CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED

2009-07-20T00:00:00

The Bank has produced a global campaign for SABMiller premium brand Pilsner Urquell. The Czech beer is sold throughout the world and this campaign is already running in Hungary with Italy soon to launch. The "Pure Pilsner" brand work will roll out across the world during the coming year.

The "Kissed by an Angel" creative is born of a key brand truth. In the western plains of Bohemia lies the city of Pilsen, guarded by an angel who proudly appears on the city’s coat of arms. Curiously, the angel has disappeared from the coat of arms on the Pilsner Urquell bottle. Legend has it she is in the beer. Kissed By An Angel – The Pure Pilsner from Pilsen.

This film set out to capture the mystique and purity of Pilsner Urquell through the use of the Pilsen Angel; an enchanting symbol of the city and a metaphor for purity and authenticity. It seamlessly marries product intrinsics and brand intrinsics, seductively describing the beer as well as the experience of drinking it, justifying its distinctive taste. The campaign is emotionally rich, engaging the audience with an enticing tone, rather than a serious and aloof one. It captures the essence of the brand, and the imagination of consumers.

‘Kissed By An Angel’ is campaignable through the line to meet various communication and media needs: TVC (60” & 30”), Cinema (60”), Print (DPS, Single Page, Teasers), Outdoor, Direct mail, Online, Activation, Merchandising. It is currently being piloted in Italy, with many new territories to follow.

To watch the "Kissed by an Angel" commercial click here.

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO NOKIA

2009-07-07T00:00:00

Monks and Nuns welcomed the Nokia Faithful at the party for their annual Away Day. A 19th Century Chappell in old Windsor was the ideal setting for the evening monastic feast where guest dined on long wooden tables and drank from silver goblets. The sermon was given by The Reverend James Brown (Get on up!) who although he was preaching to the converted really drummed up a storm before the amazing London Community Gospel Singers got the audience on their feet and dancing. The dancing continued when James Brown returned to give us a medley of hits. Special side stalls were set up including a confessional box and a ‘Change of Habit’ dressing up room. A DJ played well into the early hours and we’re not sure how many of the guest showed up for Matins the next day.

The evening was a climax of a two day conference on what had to be the hottest days of the year. Before the dinner the delegates indulged in Water Sports and other team activities organised by Threshold Sports.

THREE BEERS FOR THE BANK!

2009-06-29T00:00:00

SABMiller issued the following statement on Monday 20th April 2009.

SABMiller, one of the world’s leading brewers, announced today that The Bank has been awarded global integrated accounts for two of its premium international beer brands, Grolsch and Pilsner Urquell.

These new accounts mean that The Bank will now be the lead creative agency across three of SABMiller’s brands, having held the global account for Peroni Nastro Azzurro since 2004.

Chris Taylor, Group International Brands Director for SABMiller, said: “The Bank’s ability to create simple and powerful big ideas that work across our markets was a key factor in their selection. Already underway is the development of distinctly different, yet equally appealing brand campaigns for Pilsner Urquell and Grolsch that will engage target consumers in our markets. Our partnership with the Bank is a vibrant one which continues to offer compelling ideas and a quality of execution that reflects our strategy and aspirations for our International Brands.”

Tristan Connell, managing director of The Bank, said: “Grolsch and Pilsner Urquell both have rich heritages on which to draw and we’re delighted that SABMiller has given us creative responsibility for two such exciting brands. Our experience on Peroni Nastro Azzurro has given invaluable insights into SABMiller’s operations and consumers, meaning that we can produce effective and exciting global campaigns which we will start delivering from next month. ”

The Bank‘s strategy of linking Peroni Nastro Azzurro to Italian style has been a credible and effective differentiator in the beer category. A series of award-winning integrated campaigns have helped Peroni Nastro Azzurro international volumes grow by over 17% in the year to March 31 2009, making it one of the fastest growing premium beers in the world.

To read more, please click here

RAISING FUNDS FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK

2009-06-18T00:00:00

The new Cancer Research UK fundraising film was shot over a period of two days by The Bank at various locations in Kent.

Based on the premise that it is the small things we miss about people when they are no longer with us, we see a number of everyday objects - a dad’s pair of Wellingtons, a partner’s towel, an elderly gentleman’s hat and coat- disappear off the screen, and replaced by their owner’s name and what cancer they were diagnosed with.

We assume the worst.

However, a series of captions then inform us that due to the donations given by the public and private sector, cancer research UK have made extraordinary progress in the treatment, research and diagnosis of cancer over the last 20 years.

We then return to see our people for the first time. They are all wearing the articles we saw disappear and we realise they have not only survived their cancer, but are positively thriving.

To watch the film click here.

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF SIERRA LEONE

2009-06-16T00:00:00

Working with Save the Children, Article 25 and Buro Happold, this school prototype for Sierra Leone was devised with the local community.

The design is a modular system of floor, walls and roof on a completely flexible plan. It uses local bush-sticks, standard-sized timber planks and sheet tin for the roof, and can be reconfigured for Sierra Leone’s variable student demographic.

The aesthetic response to climatic and economic restraints has produced a new vernacular: ‘architecture without architects’.

There is widespread acceptance of the design, enabling teachers to circulate in classrooms that are light and naturally ventilated, offering better security and supervision. It has been an exciting and ambitious humanitarian undertaking to help improve education in one of the world’s poorest countries.

The design is being funded by Foster + Partners and construction is being financed by the Foster family.

The following documentary film was provided and funded by The Bank, to view it please click here.

The architectural model and the film are currently being displayed as part of the Summer Exhibition at The Royal Academy.

THE TIMES OF PERONI NASTRO AZZURRO

2009-06-06T00:00:00

On Thursday 21st May 2009, The Times ran the following article on SABMiller's annual report-

"Given the black clouds hanging over the British pub market, it seems perverse for SABMiller to be crowing about the record performance of its UK business over the past year. Its lager volumes here jumped by 20 per cent at a time when the market fell by at least 6 per cent, with Peroni Nastro Azzurro volumes up 39 per cent - equivalent to an extra 35 million bottles."

The article went on to position the brand work undertaken by The Bank over the last four years "the success of its fashion-based promotional campaign is turning Peroni into a material brand here".

IS THIS THE WORST RECORD EVER MADE?

2009-06-02T00:00:00

In 1979 Ian and Rob had a top 30 hit with a cover version of the Grease hit 'You're The One That I Want. It was recorded by 50's and 60's Sitcom stars Arthur Mullard and Hylda Baker and every time Channel 4 does 'The Worst Records of All Time' it features in the top 3 and sometimes wins!

The Music Video which was made at a Fairground in Burnham Beeches in the pouring rain is also consistently featured in the 'Worst Ever Music Video Chart'.

Rob commented "The record was storming up the chart and sold over 270,000 in one morning, but we then made the mistake of doing Top Of The Pops. Unfortunately neither Arthur nor Hylda could remember the words, so Ian, myself and co-producer Kenny Lynch had to hold up large idiot boards with them on. The trouble was that neither of them were wearing their glasses, so they couldn't read them anyway. After TOTP the record died an instant death."

To watch the master piece of a video click here!

LIVE AT HARRODS

2009-06-01T00:00:00

The Bank has created and produced a virtual shop window display to celebrate Peroni Nastro Azzurro’s collaboration with world renowned fashion designer Antonio Berardi. An innovative expression of Italian style, the activity needed to launch in an area synonymous with fashion and craftsmanship and Peroni Nastro Azzurro was delighted to secure a main window in London’s favourite store, Harrods.

For two weeks thousands of passers by will see a virtual film with 3D generated items and blue ribbon playing to the passionate sounds of an Italian operatic composition also produced by The Bank. Next to the main window is another piece of groundbreaking technology, a shop window touch screen where viewers can find out more about the collaboration and enter a competition to win one of the exclusive items.

The virtual shop display is a first for a beer brand in the UK and Harrods is a perfect fit to communicate Peroni Nastro Azzurro’s premium style positioning.

The display will tour around the UK in 4 other cities before the end of August.

http://www.somagonline.co.uk/viewblog.aspx?blogid=1139&viewuserid=1d17547e-17b6-4271-8b20-f3eb845a65d0

The equipment required to operate this revolutionary activity is owned by The Bank who can provide all production requirements to implement it from green screen film production to CGI post production and screen installation.

For more information on the technology please contact dearhannahk@thebank.co.uk

MANCHESTER UNITED 3

2009-06-01T00:00:00

The Bank Film Company were engaged by Mobile Network 3 to shoot and produce TVCs and Print to promote their sponsorship of the upcoming Far East tour by Manchester United this summer. The advertising features a number of leading players including Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs from the recently crowned Premier League Champions.

Indonesian Advertising Agency Panterei created the advertising and have been assisted in the UK by Brand Agency Wham. The spot was filmed at The Pie Factory in Manchester on 21st May and significant post production was undertaken at The Bank’s facilities in London. Paul Jones (Editor) James Lownes (CGI) and Ian Cassie (Director) made the TVC which is being produced by Maria Antonia. Maria is a keen Manchester United supporter having been born close to Old Trafford in the nearby city of Rio De Janeiro whilst Londoner Paul follows Spurs, Tractor boy James, Ipswich Town and Leicester born Ian, Leicester City (Division One Champions 2008/09.)

To watch some of the Manchester Utd players in the classroom learning Indonesian click here.

To watch the tour launch film click here.

BORIS JOHNSON TOPS OUT

2009-05-26T00:00:00

It was not without some initial hesitancy that we agreed to work on a Topping Out event on Wharf Road, Paddington Basin with guest of honour Mayor Boris Johnson.

Having spent the last five years producing brand, marketing and tender submission films for clients such as The Crown Estate and Foster and Partners, plus organising historic launch events at the British Museum for the likes of (the) Zaha Hadid and Omniyat Properties, we thought we knew pretty much everything about property development- but what on earth, do people do at a Topping Out Party?

Luckily wikipedia put our over-active imaginations to rest...

'a non-religious but formal ceremony is often held to commemorate this milestone in the construction of a building. The ceremony is often parlayed into a media event for public relations purposes.'

Over the past few months The Bank have been involved filming or producing numerous Topping Out Ceremonies across London and the South-East. Ranging from the uber-luxury world of Candy & Candy's landmark development, 'One Hyde Park' to high-tech office buildings in Paddington Basin.

Please note 'Topping Out' should not be confused with a dish served for the Bullingdon Club involving home made mash potatoes and a lap dancer.

For further information, please contact richardg@thebank.co.uk

15TH CONSECUTIVE AGM FOR HSBC

2009-05-25T00:00:00

Friday the 22nd of May witnessed The Banks involvement in the 15th consecutive AGM for HSBC, a testament to a long lasting partnership. Since it relocated from Hong Kong to London, HSBC has become one of the largest banks in the world.

A SPORTING WEEK

2009-05-20T00:00:00

Everyone at The Bank took part in a Go-Kart endurance race on Friday 17th July as part of a Company day out. The standard of driving varied from Lewis Hamilton to Christine Hamilton as the two and a half hour race wore on and almost everybody is now suffering from one injury or another caused by the intense physical exertions of the drive or the ridiculous consumption of alcohol on the journey back.

Several people then went onto The Open in Turnberry where client Pilsner Urquell were the official beer sponsor of the event. The Ashes Test has also proved an attraction with a number attending the second Test at Lords.

OXFORD VS CAMBRIDGE GOAT RACE

2009-05-19T00:00:00

On the same day as the stuffy old boat race, The Banks new Creative Content Planner, Anne Hopkins previously at BBH, hosted the inaugural Oxford vs. Cambridge Goat Race at Spitlafields City Farm.

The goats raced a tough and meandering course lined with cheering spectators and was ultimately won by the under-goat Cambridge! We can't wait to see what happens next year!

THE BANK TAKES FLIGHT

2009-05-18T00:00:00

TUI is the parent company of Thomson and First Choice - the two having merged last year making them the UK's largest holiday tour operator.

The Bank first worked for them in August 2008 to help the launch of their ‘Be Special’ internal campaign and since then have developed a great working relationship and produced a total of 13 films.

Such has been the success of the 'Be Special' campaign that TUI have decided to produce regular internal programming based on the 'Be Special' theme, to celebrate, advocate and inspire staff to go that extra mile. The Bank are delighted to have been entrusted with this exciting project which genuinely makes a difference both internally with all of TUI's people and also externally with their customers.

FIGURES RISE ON DR CAMPAIGN FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK

2009-05-08T00:00:00

The Bank won a 4 way pitch to create and produce a new direct response advertising campaign for Cancer Research UK. For the first time the charity wanted to use real people in their direct response work instead of actors. 3 x 90” spots on were filmed in high definition, directed by Gaby Jeffs.

Since the airing of the advert, The Bank are delighted to report that the response rate has increased by 29% in comparison with previous campaigns- Bravo!

THE BANK ACCOUNTS

2009-04-19T00:00:00

The Communication Channel PLC (trading as The Bank) posted a slightly reduced EBITDA of £822K for the year ending September 2008. The company has continued to trade profitably at much the same rate for the first six months of the new financial year and are entering the current world economic crisis with some optimism.

CEO Matt Cowley commented, ''It's a good feeling to think that in the present climate we are the only Bank still making money!''

Full accounts are filed at Companies House.

MEDIA MOGULS MEET IN MIAMI!

2009-04-18T00:00:00

This week guests from the high echelons of Entertainment and fashion including such luminaries as Tommy Hilfiger, Jewellery designer Mimi So and Baskin & Robin founder Richard Baskin join the board members of Abu Dhabi Investment House at the stunning Setae hotel on Miami’s South beach.

The reason for the get together is to plan the strategy that will shape ADIH’s major real estate projects Entertainment City which are being built in Qatar, Morocco and Mumbai. These premium residential and business developments will boast entertainment and culture as their central theme with state of the art music venues, theatres and Cinema complexes and include a whole area devoted to Design and Fashion called PortaModa. The Bank who produced the inaugural meeting in Washington last year are again engaged for this high profile meeting.

More information to follow the event…

IVCA AWARDS

2009-04-15T00:00:00

The Bank was delighted to receive 3 Awards from comedienne Jo Brand at the annual International Visual Communications Association awards at London’s Grosvenor House (is there anywhere else that does Award Ceremonies?) where a delicious Venison Main (with Claret Reduction) or the customary Vegetarian Option preceded the awards on Friday March 27th 2009.

Live Events were honoured for work with Vodafone (Gold), Peroni Nastro Azzurro (Silver) whilst The Bank Film Company won Gold for its recent work for Skandia.
Dancing to the sound of the Son of Rick Parfitt's Big Band went on well into the night by which time the excess of Claret Reduction was starting to take its toll.

VODAFONE TAKE THE FAST TRACK TO GOLD AT THE IVCA AWARDS

The Vodafone Consumer Sales Event, staged at Millbrook car proving ground in Bedfordshire last September and produced by The Bank has breezed past all contenders to grab the Gold Medal for Best Internal Event at this years IVCA's. The fast paced event included a hologram launch of the new BlackBerry Storm before they all split into teams to build and race their own F1 car. The evening bash had A 1960s Monaco Scene that included the famous Casino and an amazing Scalextric circuit.

Head of Vodafone Consumer Sales Tom Devine said; ‘The Bank played a first class role in delivering this event. They were able to bring their experience and focus and really work collaboratively with our people. The biggest compliment I can pay the team at the Bank is that the event always felt like ours not theirs, yet I know we could not have delivered it without them."

EMPORIO PERONI – SILVER, ‘EXTERNAL LIVE AND EXPERIENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS

More recognition for this really effective experiential campaign. The minimalist single bottle of Peroni in a shop window which was originally seen in Sloane Street Knightsbridge kick started The ‘Peroni Italy’ brand re-launch for SABMiller. The Bank created the entire campaign, everything from the beer glasses to the cinema commercials which has seen a sales increase of 29% in the UK alone. Emporio Peroni has now gone live in over 10 cities around the world and is a vital part of the Peroni Nastro Azzurro success story.

The judges at the IVCA said ‘Bang on target. A bold and risky campaign that inspired conversions. It epitomises the brand and exceeds objectives and continues to engage new audiences.’

SKANDIA‘s VISION OF THE FUTURE IS GOLDEN

This film won gold in the ‘Sale of Products and Services’ category

Shot in South Africa and produced with The Bank Cape Town, the film portrays the way Skandia works with its clients in a personal way to help manage their financial planning over a lifetime. The every day short story of a Father having to plan for his daughter’s wedding is given emotion and poignancy through the beautiful cinematography of the South African Landscapes and the music used.

Chief Marketing Officer for Skandia, Giles Elliott said: ‘Skandia set out to commission a brand film that is engaging, emotive and focussed on the aspirations of customer for control and confidence, not on 'product'. The IVCA judges tell us the film achieved exactly that. My thanks to the Bank for their faultless interpretation of our brief, and their aplomb in delivering the end result.’

THE BANK IS FINISHED

2009-04-11T00:00:00

The Bank has invested in a broadcast grading suite to compliment its moving picture post-production facilities. There are now five Final Cut Pro edit suites working in tandem with CGI graphics.

The Company has been joined by Paul Jones as Senior Editor. Paul has worked with The Bank for over ten years at various London edit houses and been responsible for some of the best work coming from The Bank in recent years.

PERONI'S IN GOOD COMPANY...

2009-03-22T00:00:00

The Telegraph's Iain Martin, whilst recently commenting on the behaviour of Silvio Berlusconi at the G20 Summit, reinforced Peroni's legendary status when including it amongst other iconic Italian brands.

“Italy is such a great country. But why does it keep finding itself governed by this man? The land which gave us the Romans, Peroni, Pasta, Parmesan, the Renaissance, the Uffizi gallery in Florence, Gina Lollobrigida, Gucci and Ferrari, has struggled to get a proper hang of this democracy business."

Full article here

FLYING COWS IN CAPE TOWN...

2009-03-19T00:00:00

The Bank Cape Town has just facilitated a production of a new commercial for the milk drink Yazoo.

The barmy concept of shooting a cow out of a cannon was created by the agency WFCA and directed by Jon Dennis from Serious films in the UK.

The commercial has been running in Ireland since early March, and Yazoo have subsequently recorded their best sales figures ever!

No cows were injured during the making of this commercial.

WORLD BANK

2009-03-16T00:00:00

Almost half of the people now working at The Bank were born outside England. Countries include Singapore, Ireland, United States, Hong Kong, Hungary, Poland, South Africa, France, Australia (lots), New Zealand (too many), Brazil, Argentina and Lebanon. As if things aren't bad enough we even have a Scotswoman!

This International expansion has been overseen by CEO Matthew Cowley who, despite his apparent Cockney “Gawd Bless You Guvnor’” demeanor is of course German from the long line of Prussian Von Cowleys. Visit the COMPANY/PEOPLE section of this site for more riveting information on the people who make this company tick.

PERONI PUTS ON THE STYLE

2009-02-24T00:00:00

Beer brand Peroni, owned by the brewing giant SABMiller, is to sign a partnership with fashion designer Antonio Berardi to produce a range of accessories.

The new collection will be launched initially in the UK, and subsequently put on sale around the world. The five-year deal follows an earlier collaboration in Russia between Peroni and the designer, whose work is favoured by stars including Victoria Beckham.

Credit goes to the 'Sunday Times' for this article.

'Press relations by GSC'

CANCER RESEARCH, SOUND & VISION

2009-02-23T00:00:00

For the second year the Bank Film Company will be supporting Cancer Research UK’s Sound & Vision.

Now in its fourth year, Sound & Vision celebrates music, the people who make it and the imagery it inspires and raises money for Cancer Research UK.

This year’s line up is looking impressive with Patron Bob Harris co-hosting with Dermot O’Leary.

Paul Weller (who was spotted recently in The Bank’s local watering hole drinking Peroni), Lemar, Paolo Nutini and Diana Jones will be performing live at the event which takes place at Abbey Road Studios on February 26th.

The Bank Film Co will be filming on the night.

The last few tickets for this Sound & Vision are available through an online auction at www.soundandvisionofficial.com , where you can also find out more about the night, see some of this year’s stunning imagery and enter a competition music quiz!

Thanks to Lawrence Watson for use of Paul Weller photography.

LICENSED TO SPILL

2009-02-22T00:00:00

Since its launch in October, the new Peroni Nastro Azzurro cinema commercial has been running in cinemas across the UK during the latest Bond film ‘The Quantum of Solace’.

The new ad features the Nastro Azzurro or blue ribbon flowing through and interacting with classic Italian style Icons and at the climax the ribbon becomes a rain of blue liquid spilling over the featured artists. All special effects were done live rather than with CGI to achieve the desired effect.

The film was conceived and produced entirely in house and using our Cape Town office and our post production facilities, The Bureau. The campaign which also features an outdoor and press campaign has been very well received and is being rolled out across the world.

ROB'S EX SONGWRITING PARTNER IS SARAH'S DAD

2009-02-20T00:00:00

This article appeared in The Mail on Sunday. John Hardman and Rob were in '70's band Sunfighter together and co-wrote the single 'Drag Race Queen' and two subsequent singles. The band, managed and styled by one Ian Cassie featured on Top Of Top The Pops with Drag Race Queen in July 1976.

Subsequently John went and fathered Sarah who became a star in 'Girls Aloud' after changing her name to Harding and breaking off all relations with her Dad. A bit extreme, we didn't think Sunfighter were that bad!

Decide for yourself and see if you can spot Rob...

THE BANK AT THE BRIT'S

2009-02-19T00:00:00

The Bank’s annual trip to the BRITs was a great success again with over 40 of our clients enjoying great performances by Duffy, The Kings of Leon, U2 et al. 2008 was a good year for new music which was reflected in the great live acts on show.

After the show it was off to The Wellington in Knightsbridge for our own After Bash which went on to the early hours. Most people got home alright.

THE BANK'S CHRISTMAS MASH UP- INNIT!

2009-01-07T00:00:00

The Bank’s mash up this crimbo was like well sick man. We ‘ad all the crew pitch up...700 party hearty martys underneath the arches of Southwark Bridge. It was a bit parky so I fired up some oil drums...you could sit in the caravan if you wanted...as long as you were a VIP (very important pikey)...and try not to be nicked by the old bill...of which there were plenty...

Vicky Pollard chipped up...and that slag Lauren...whatever!

The Cheeky Girls were well fit and Chav and Dave couldn’t stop singing...more rabbit than Sainsbury’s those two...talk about give it a rest that geezer from Blue got on the stage an all...Lee or somefink...but totally no doubt the boys and girls of the night were as per...The Bank choir who belted out their traditional crimbo number ‘Fairytale in New York’. Backing track recorded at Abbey Road...Oasis complained about the noise of course!

Anyway we only banged up a poster outside which looked a bit Banksy like...the next day we’ve got his agent on the blower....that interweb whassit was buzzin’ with all sorts of geek comments...I mean leave it out sunbeam!

The party was well pimped up by the press

"... ONE OF THE MOST ENTERTAINING CHRISTMAS PARTIES OF THE YEAR..."
EVENT MAGAZINE

THREE IN A ROW FOR THE BANK AT 'LIVECOM'

2009-01-06T00:00:00

The third ‘LiveCom’ Awards were hosted by the IVCA in December at The Stock Exchange (not much going on there!) and for the third time The Bank snapped up an award for External Experience. Also for the third time, it went to one of The Bank’s projects in The Middle East.

The Lagoon launch was a three day carnival put together for Abu Dhabi Investment House, one of the region’s newest and most progressive Investment Houses. ADIH are moving onto the global stage with Offices in Geneva and London and large scale investment projects in The Far East, The Indian Subcontinent, North Africa and of course The Middle East. ADIH created the event, which was free for the people of Bahrain to announce the completion and imminent opening of The Lagoon Retail Park. Noora Al Nusuf, Head of Corporate Communications for ADIH made the trip from Bahrain to pick up the award.

THE BANK'S NEW WEBSITE GOES LIVE!

2009-01-03T00:00:00

Yes it’s finally here! The minimalist blue look of our previous site has now been replaced by a brand spanking new one which is bright, highly coloured and yes...optimistic!

Since we launched the last site, The Bank has had a busy time which has seen The Advertising Company grow and with the continuing success of The Bank Film and The Bank Live Events, we can now genuinely call ourselves an integrated agency. So we thought it was high time for a new website.

We think it’s really easy to find your way around. Have a browse and you’ll be amazed at the things we have done and got away with...we certainly are.

This news page is going to bring you all the latest stories about what we’re up to and what our clients are doing. We will also regale you with articles and opinions about issues that affect our industry in ‘Our View’ a little further down this page.