Marketing agency sets out his stall

9:50am Friday 6th February 2004

A NEW direct marketing agency has opened in Mortlake High Street. SP Direct has been set up by Hilary Sims and Clare Podmore, who have worked together at existing agencies AWA and FFwd.

They already boast two household name clients Fortnum & Mason and Accor Hotels (which includes Novotel, Sofitel and Ibis).

The agency provides a full direct marking service from creative through to production and analysis, together with an in-house media and data buying service.

Hilary Sims said: "Clare and I have worked together for several years and setting up our own agency was the natural next step. This opportunity enables us to concentrate on what we relish most providing first-class account handling and servicing."

Clare Podmore adds: "Our approach with clients is simple we do not treat them with kid gloves, nor do we treat them as amateurs. We believe that an up-front, open and sometimes even candid relationship with clients is the most successful approach."

and this is best achieved in a smaller environment. With marketing budgets having to work even harder, many clients are not interested in paying for large teams in big name agencies. They want an agency who will run their accounts efficiently, effectively and, most important of all, honestly."