CBSA for Business and Social Action Wales

Business of the month

Postiwyd Gan CBSA on Monday, October 01, 2012

Warwick Emanuel PR

Introduce the business

We are Warwick Emanuel PR. We’re a Cardiff-based team of 10 and work around Wales and elsewhere in the UK.

What does the business do?

We specialise in working for utilities and managing community engagement for companies seeking to build new developments – such as renewable energy plants and other infrastructure. We also work in the social housing and IT sectors.

Why does the business do what it does?

The background of several of the directors is in energy and water companies. We’ve a lot of knowledge of these industries and in managing communications for the building of new assets – so when we started the business we quickly found some big clients. We’ve since branched out into a few other areas.

What makes the business different from its competitors?

We are not a generalist PR consultancy – unlike most others in Wales. We have our particular niches which we have built up over the years. Our reputation in these areas means that companies are often referred to us by third parties.

What does the future hold for the business?

We are happy to stick with the areas we know very well, but the way we do things has changed immensely in recent years. Technology means that people get information in new ways – so we have developed skills in making films and managing social media. That’s the way ahead.

What do you think needs to be done to help businesses in Wales?

We’d love to see something permanent done about business rates. It’s absurd that we encourage people to start businesses, and when they do they are immediately punished by this anti-business tax. It makes no sense. Businesses also need easier access to finance – as it is essential for expansion. In addition, we need to foster a more business-friendly culture, as without successful and growing firms we won’t bridge the GDP gap with most other parts of the UK.