NATIONAL MAGAZINE CONTRACT FOR MIDLANDS-BASED AVA PR

If the economic downturn has been a boon to anything, it has certainly highlighted the need to broaden business networks, communicate professionally and to expertly manage an organisation’s reputation.

It is no surprise then, that one of the UK’s leading networking organisations, the forum for the built environment (fbe) has appointed Midlands-based corporate communications agency, AVA PR to handle the revamp and relaunch of its new magazine.

Aside from the website, the magazine is a major communications tool for the fbe and its members, which span some 18 branches from Scotland to Devon & Cornwall. The forum’s members are made up of professionals from the construction, development and property sectors – one of the business sectors hardest hit by the downturn.

Following an intensive three-way pitch, AVA’s brief is to bring the magazine up-to-date by creating dynamic, vibrant and interactive content which is informative and newsworthy.

Commenting on the contract win, AVA director Adrienne Vaughan said: “The very essence of good networking is communication and as the fbe was established as the Faculty of Building in 1946, and is continuing to flourish, its longevity clearly demonstrates the organisation is doing something right. We are hoping to promote and support its members positively throughout these troubled times and beyond.”

Phil Laycock, national chairman, fbe commented: “AVA’s ability to combine creativity with pragmatic income stream ideas was very impressive. However we utilise websites and the internet, there is nothing like receiving a ‘real’ magazine, the ultimate portable information centre - especially if it’s a good read too!”

fbe’s new magazine is scheduled to be launched at the Derby Property and Business Investment Show at Pride Park in May.