The challenge
The new centre wasn’t just a classroom, it was a live workshop where students could learn traditional crafts on real-world projects. The task was clear: cut through the noise and get the story to the right audiences — students, industry partners and clients alike.
Working within a limited budget and a one-month timeframe, our goal was to position DBR as the sector’s go-to authority on preserving heritage skills while showcasing their innovative dual-purpose facility.
The solution
We created a short, sharp PR campaign designed to punch above its weight. The strategy centred on DBR’s motto, ‘Making sure the past has a future’, and three core messages: educational excellence, solving the skills gap, and a hands-on, real-world training model.
Tactics were tightly focused. A press release announced the opening of the centre. We capitalised on industry conversations around skills shortages and apprenticeships, making DBR spokespeople the go-to voices on heritage craft preservation. Adrian Attwood, DBR’s Executive Director, was profiled in interviews, panel discussions and bylined commentary, establishing authority and extending reach.
The results
The campaign exceeded expectations on every front. Within one month, 12 high-quality media placements were secured, double the original KPI.
Highlights included:
- National coverage in BBC Online, reaching 2.5 million readers
- BBC Radio Sussex interview, engaging 250,000 listeners
- Eight trade publications reaching 150,000 industry professionals
Every story carried our key messages, positioning DBR as the definitive voice on heritage craft skills. The campaign demonstrated that with a clear strategy, compelling story and well-targeted execution, a modest budget can deliver maximum impact.
Get in touch
