Our News

Smoking Gun hits two hole in ones – winning both corporate and consumer briefs for American Golf

The UK’s largest golf retailer, American Golf, has appointed Smoking Gun to handle both its corporate and consumer comms. We are delivering two separate media relations briefs for the retail giant whose vision is to become the ultimate one-stop destination for everything a golfer requires. Leveraging our media relations expertise, we will drive mass brand … Continued

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Comms

Our News

PR

Social Media & Digital

Philips small domestic appliance account win for Smoking Gun

Smoking Gun has been appointed on a retained basis by Versuni, owners of the Philips domestic appliance business, following a competitive pitch process. The six figure account covers an integrated communications brief comprising campaigns, press office, influencer and social media marketing. Philips previously worked with three separate agencies for PR, social and influencer work and … Continued

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Blog

Measurement And Evaluation

It’s measurement month- Five techniques for killer insights to inform your PR strategy

At Smoking Gun, we don’t do PR. We do intelligent, disruptive, ingenious communications campaigns – that solve real business problems.  Supporting brand marketers not to ‘make noise’ but to achieve their organisational goals takes more than great ideas. To really mfove the dial on improving reputation, growing awareness, changing perceptions or increasing sales, ‘Inspired Insights’ … Continued

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How To Guides

The Rise Of The Shrewd Shopper

Introducing Smoking Gun’s brand playbook to make it onto the nation’s shopping list.

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Case files

Influencer marketing

Major influence: Celebrity partnerships that work

SEE HOW WE HELPED DARE 2B SMASH ITS COMMUNICATIONS GOALS Done right, influencer marketing has proved its clout when it comes to building brand love and loyalty, growing audiences and catapulting awareness. Successful influencer campaigns spark some of the most authentic and powerful connections with your audience. When sportswear brand Dare 2b came to us … Continued

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Case Studies

Experiential Marketing

PR & Comms

Brand building experiential – that delivers in the round

The nation’s biggest brands trust Smoking Gun to deliver on their biggest moments – and nothing transports consumers to the heart of your brand quite like immersive experiences and memorable stunts. But we don’t just deliver flash in the pan moments. Our experiential campaigns engage audiences across platforms to build a coherent narrative to stunning … Continued

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Events

Social Media

Brand building on TikTok webinar: 5 essential insights

TikTok is no longer the new kid on the block. However, many brands are still unsure where to start with one of the fastest growing and most influential social media platforms.  So, as part of our Summer Series, Smoking Gun held a webinar to provide actionable insights to help marketing teams build their brand and … Continued

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Blog

Media News

PR & Comms

PR stories for today’s newsroom – tips for success

The nation’s newsrooms are transforming at an unprecedented pace.  In response, Smoking Gun recently held a webinar to help brands and marketing professionals to navigate this new earned media landscape. Led by our Head Of Media Carl Stroud, The Future Of The Newsroom was crammed with invaluable insights and practical tips. Missed it? Watch the … Continued

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Blog

Shaping AI: A New Era of Influence

Shaping AI: A New Era of Influence AI has rapidly evolved from a behind-the-scenes analytics tool into a commanding force that guides what we read, watch and hear. Marketing experts like Rand Fishkin emphasise that although mainstream media may have lost some of its previous dominance, the proliferation of digital platforms—ranging from Reddit and YouTube … Continued

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Uncategorized

Top Influencer Marketing Strategies for B2C Brands from 2024

Top Influencer Marketing Strategies for B2C Brands from 2024 With the digital landscape evolving rapidly, brands are looking for authentic ways to connect with their target audiences. Influencers bridge the gap by fostering genuine relationships that resonate more with consumers than traditional advertising methods. This article provides essential B2C influencer marketing tips to help B2C … Continued

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Uncategorized

Smoking Gun appoints senior account director to bolster growing B2B division

Smoking Gun has appointed Lee Simpson as B2B senior account director. Lee is the latest strategic hire for the globally-renowned, multi-award winning marcomms agency as it looks set to close the year seeing record growth.  Formerly of Skout PR, where he headed up the agency’s tech practice, Lee is joining the agency to work with … Continued

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Our News

Our News

Head of B2B and Commercial Director Caroline Aspinall shares thoughts and predictions for 2025

Media, marketing and tech website Prolific North asked the leading lights of northern agencies for their thoughts and predictions for 2025. They sought out Caroline Aspinall, Smoking Gun’s commercial director and head of B2B, to get her expert take on the exciting times ahead in the PR industry in 2025. See the full article below: … Continued

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B2C

Blog

Social Media

How to Build a Winning B2C Social Media Strategy for 2025

Social media platforms remain at the forefront of communicating and reaching out to customers in 2025. They provide B2C brands unparalleled opportunities to engage with their audience, foster customer loyalty, and drive meaningful conversations. In 2025, a coherent, well-planned social strategy should not be seen as a competitive advantage—they’re now a necessity. But what sets … Continued

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B2B

Blog

AI in Finance PR – Embracing the Future of Data-Driven Communication

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping how financial institutions and fintech companies manage their public relations. By harnessing data analytics, AI empowers organisations to produce more personalised messaging, streamline media outreach, and respond to evolving market conditions. Rather than relying on traditional tactics, brands that leverage AI can create precise, high-impact campaigns tailored to audience preferences. As … Continued

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Our News

Smoking Gun secures groundbreaking PR brief for University Academy 92

Smoking Gun has been appointed as the retained agency for University Academy 92 (UA92), a pioneering Manchester-based higher education institution. The strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for both the innovative educational brand and the award-winning PR agency. Co-founded by the legendary Class of ’92 and Lancaster University, UA92 has engaged Smoking Gun’s specialised B2B … Continued

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Our News

Smoking Gun wins prestigious BWH Hotels PR Brief

Smoking Gun has been selected as the retained B2B PR partner for BWH Hotels, Great Britain’s largest group of independent hotels. The strategic partnership follows a highly competitive pitch process that showcased the agency’s exceptional media expertise in the travel and hospitality sectors. After a rigorous selection process, Smoking Gun distinguished itself through its unparalleled … Continued

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B2C

Influencer marketing

Social Media

TikTok Influencer Strategies for B2C Brands

In the fast-paced world of social media, TikTok has established itself as a formidable platform, immensely popular among Gen Z and millennials. This revolution has prompted B2C brands to shift focus towards influencer-driven strategies. Traditional advertising methods are waning, giving rise to an era where creativity and authentic engagement are paramount. TikTok’s short, engaging videos … Continued

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B2C

Social Media

Maximising B2C Success with TikTok: A Step-by-Step Guide

TikTok has rapidly become a powerhouse platform for small businesses, particularly in the B2C space. Its unique algorithm and emphasis on video marketing make it a cornerstone for any successful B2C social media campaign. With over 1 billion active users globally as of 2024, it offers unparalleled opportunities for small businesses to connect with highly … Continued

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B2B

Influencer marketing

Influencer Marketing in B2B: Beyond the Consumer Market

Influencer marketing isn’t just for B2C brands. It’s a powerful way for B2B companies to build trust, increase brand awareness, and connect with niche audiences. B2B campaigns are different from B2C ones. B2C often uses celebrities, while B2B focuses on industry experts. These experts provide credibility and valuable insights. In this article, we’ll explore how … Continued

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B2B

Uncategorized

Financial PR Strategies: Communicating Trust in a Complex Market

In today’s financial landscape, trust is both a fundamental requirement and a significant challenge. Financial institutions face growing scrutiny from the public, regulators, and stakeholders, making strategic public relations (PR) an essential tool to rebuild and maintain credibility. Financial PR strategies, rooted in transparency, consistency, and thought leadership, play a critical role in fostering trust … Continued

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B2B

Blog

Mastering the Art of Media Training in the Legal Sector

Media training has become indispensable for legal professionals in a world where perception can shape reality. Beyond legal expertise, lawyers must confidently and precisely navigate the scrutiny of press inquiries, courtroom coverage, and public statements. A well-prepared legal team can effectively manage media interactions, safeguarding reputations while reinforcing public trust. From solicitors to administrative staff, … Continued

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