The Force is strong with this one

Target celebrates 35 years in business this month.

Formed in 1977 – when the Queen celebrated her Silver Jubilee and Star Wars was the cinema blockbuster – the company has experienced a multitude of changes, most recently in 2011 when the firm consolidated its focus on public relations as its core specialism, appointed Sarah Bryars as chief executive, and moved to its current premises at 105-107 Bath Road, Cheltenham.

“Target is living proof that quality beats the test of time, whatever the economy throws its way,” says Sarah Bryars.

“Our industry, like many others, has had its ups and downs. But by concentrating on quality and high standards, we’re very proud to be celebrating 35 years in a very competitive business where only the best will do.

“We’re a very different business to the one that opened its doors as an advertising and design agency in 1977. The creative industries, and the businesses we serve, have changed immeasurably – even in just the last five years.

“Quality is Target’s enduring characteristic, and today our team of 11 directs all its energy and creativity towards PR-led solutions that enhance the reputations of our clients so that they can grow their businesses, meet potential customers or sell more product.”

Target PR’s diverse portfolio encompasses B2B and consumer clients, in sectors from heating and plumbing (ADEY Professional Heating Solutions) to beauty (SLG), aluminium curtain walling specialists (Sapa Building System) to equestrian athletes (British Equestrian Federation), and one of the best known names on the high street (Specsavers) – to name but a few. Targeting national, local, specialist, online and social media, it’s this diversity that Sarah credits as part of Target’s success.

“Sharing ideas and experience among a team working on such different clients is a great way of maintaining a fresh perspective,” says Sarah. “But it’s also really exciting to see the depth of knowledge and contacts that each client team generates, and how they use those sector insights and relationships to benefit the client.

“Everything comes back to quality performance; it doesn’t just keep our clients happy it gives each of us a buzz, which breeds confidence, enjoyment, and our performance just gets better, which benefits the client, and so the positive cycle continues.

“That’s not to say it’s always a smooth ride! We’re in a very tough trading environment. But we’re determined, fiercely loyal to our clients, to each other and to Target, and we’re full of ambition for the future.”