Smart Agency: Marketing & PR Leeds, Yorkshire, UK

Harrogate-based communications firm The Smart Agency has launched a new service for start-up businesses, small companies and entrepreneurs, of which there were over 7,300 established in Yorkshire and the Humber region during 2007*.

Called ‘Smart Start’, the agency offers small companies affordable results-focussed PR and marketing advice aimed at growing their business, together with a range of services set at prices to suit smaller budgets.  As part of the offering, the company is offering one hour’s initial discussion and consultancy free of charge.

Heading up Smart Start is Emma Kirkaldy, who started her own business from scratch eight years ago.  She said: “We have recognised that there is a huge interest now in people starting their own businesses. This is due in part to TV programmes like The Apprentice and Dragon’s Den, which have encouraged people to start their own businesses.  Entrepreneurs are becoming the new sex symbols, moving away from the more traditional iconic pop and movie stars and footballers.

"Successful TV entrepreneurs, such as Duncan Bannatyne and Peter Jones have become celebrities in their own right and their success has encouraged many people to start their own business.  However, being in business is tough, especially in the current economic climate, and it can be difficult for small companies to get their message across in what is often a crowded market. Smart believes that’s where positive public relations and targeted marketing communications can help."

Smart Start offers media relations services, new company/product launch support, design and copywriting for newsletters and websites.

The company has launched a new website that outlines the services provided and costs involved. More information is available at www.thesmartstart.co.uk.

* Source Yorkshire Forward