Well Done Boris

One of the first initiatives undertaken by Boris Johnson was to review and to cut the Greater London Authority and Transport For London advertising budget, saving £20 million. The marketing press were up in arms over this, claiming it to be short sighted and headline grabbing.

However, I think it was a great decision and sets a good example for the government who have spent £1.5 billion on advertising since it took office in 1997.

The intentions behind some of the ad campaigns have been positive, particularly those aimed at reducing gun crime and encouraging cycling. However why does the Major need to advertise? He can discuss these issues and launch campaigns on tv programmes and via newspaper features rather than resort to paid for advertising space. Word of mouth and pr are nowadays much more powerful communication media and he has the presence and charisma to get his message across. Also some of Ken’s initiatives were ego driven eg his free magazine and needed to go.

Hopefully, the money saved will be spent on more important stuff. Good for us, bad for advertising agencies.