Tomorrow's talent in PR

Choosing a career hasn't got any easier for today's youngsters, so Target was really pleased to be able to take part in a recent 'have a go' skills event at Gloucester Rugby Club.

The event saw hundreds of teenagers from schools across the county taking a couple of hours out of the classroom to sample skills from bricklaying and hairdressing, to 3-d computer design in engineering and, of course, PR.

Target's apprentice Courtney (pictured chatting with pupils) designed a couple of simple challenges based on real client scenarios - launching a new beauty product aimed at the teen market or opening a new Specsavers branch in the heart of a local high street. Pupils could choose to tell their story in the opening paragraphs of a press release, or create a photo that would appeal to the press. The incentive of a prize for the best in each category added a little extra motivation.

With some personal guidance from Courtney and Target chief exec Sarah, plus a photographer from Cirencester College on hand to lend a camera and his years of professional experience, the 14- and 15-year olds came up with some great entries. We'll be revealing the winners before the end of term!

Target's new home

Target Public Relations has moved into new offices in Cheltenham.

The company has set up its new base at 105/107 Bath Road, half a mile from its former home.

“It’s a great move for us,” said Chief Executive Sarah Bryars.

“We wanted to stay in Cheltenham, close to our local clients such as ADEY Professional Heating Solutions and Amano.

“After eight years in a beautiful but rambling Georgian building in Painswick Road, we really appreciate the practical benefits of a modern open-plan office.

“We carried out a major restructure this year and having a new home is a fitting way to consolidate our position in the market place and the new direction in which we’re heading.”

Target began as an advertising and design agency in 1977 based in Bayshill Road. It expanded into marketing and digital services, and began offering public relations in 1996. PR is now its speciality.

Chairman Colin Spencer, who joined Target in 1994, has seen the company through three moves in 17 years.

“We’re proud that Cheltenham remains our home and that we have continually been able to adapt to the ever-changing commercial climate,” he said.