Member Article

PR firm floats in the city

A public relations consultant with a passion for all things nautical has cast off his city centre office and set up business on the Tyne.

Highlights PR director Keith Newman from Ulgham, Morpeth has finally brought his long-held ambition into harbour by combining his passion for the river with a great visual marketing tool – a specially commissioned boat-based office docked at St Peter’s Marina on the edge of Newcastle’s Ouseburn creative hub.

The move is a natural progression for Newman who has looked after PR for a number of river based clients including the Royal Naval Reserve at HMS Calliope, The Maritime Volunteer Service and The Clean Tyne Project.

Highlights PR was formed in 2007 after Newman was made redundant after 23 years working in the gas industry. Now, with steady growth the business has a number of clients including national and regional charities, a major gas utility, many small businesses and Newcastle’s largest taxi firm. Last year, Highlights PR coordinated the entire media project for the Auf Wiedersehen Pet reunion weekend in aid of the Sunday for Sammy Trust.

But it was Newman’s passion with the river Tyne that was the catalyst for using the boat as an office for his business.

“I’ve always had a keen interest in the river, it’s history, the famous ships that have come and gone and its geography so it just seemed to make perfect sense to work from a boat.

“It’s decorated with my logos and contact details and has become a floating marketing tool for my business. My clients love coming on-board as it has a very peaceful feeling and it’s also a great atmosphere in which to get the creative juices flowing.”

Built in Essex by Viking Cruisers, the 24 foot long cabin cruiser is powered by a 30hp outboard motor and comes with the latest navigation aids and equipment. During the construction period Keith made regular trips to the factory to ensure that the specification was just right for his business.

“I wanted the boat to be welcoming to my clients so little details like extra LED lights and a large open cockpit area were essential. The vessel picks up Wi-Fi from the marina and has a shore based electrical supply to power the office equipment on-board.

During the summer months, Highlights PR clients will be offered hospitality trips along the Tyne and it is hoped that the boat will also be used as an unusual business-meeting venue for management teams out on the river.

“I’m delighted with the boat, it’s a dream come true and I’m looking forward to the vessel being a regular sight on the river. I appreciate how lucky I am being able to couple my love of the river and boats with my job. I’m very excited about the prospect of taking more clients on board for my PR services too.

“ I’m an ordinary bloke who has fulfilled my dream, and with Highlights PR, we can help others to do the same.“

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Highlights PR .