The creative agency founded by partners Mark Frith and Craig Sanderson and based in the Manchester's bohemian Northern Quarter (with a satellite office in London) has successfully penetrated the public sector over recent years with its creative design and digital services; becoming a preferred partner of the NHS and local government as well as many academic institutions.
Despite the economic downturn Cube has grown its income over the last two years as well as recruiting to senior studio, client management and business development roles. "There's no doubt that the economic downturn has affected everyone in the industry and that budgets are having to work so much harder," says Mark Frith Managing Director, "We've opted to add value through a complete end-to-end solution rather than being a tactical resource and it's paying dividends."
Cube earned its reputation with creative design but has seen its digital division explode over the last three years, particularly in applications for social marketing where new technology is demanded to engage young people.
A key part of Cube's expansion is the addition of a strategic communications division headed by seasoned business communicator Pat McLaren who heads up the agency's research, planning and PR offering. With over 20 years international experience working with some of the world's biggest brands Pat brings a new dimension to Cube's core offering and says that PR is the one to watch in the marketing mix. "We're seeing the 'poor relation' come into its own as clients finally see the value of real stakeholder engagement - whether its their own staff or the toughest industry analyst - PR is driving the entire marketing agenda!" Just a few weeks into the role the company's health experience has paid dividends with a large health arms-length-body client win.
"These are fascinating times for the business," continues Frith, "With the whole public sector landscape shifting almost daily we envisage a massive need for outsourcing and our role will be to partner and support those providers who want to take on the challenge."
