The Headliner: Recent Episodes
Eulogy
Every week The Headliner brings you a team of award-winning media experts from Eulogy, an independent communications agency. We dissect the biggest stories to help brands understand and influence the agenda.
Eulogy has a proven, award-winning pedigree in consumer, b2b and corporate PR consultancy. We combine big, creative ideas with sound strategy and media nous.
This month on the Headliner, host Matt Gray is joined by Eulogy's Director of Media, Insights and Planning, Sara Beirne, and content manager, Jack Terry. Together, they discuss one of the foremost issues in the media today: disinformation. What is disinformation? Why is it spreading at such an alarming rate? And what can be done in the fight against it?
Then, in the Conversation, Matt speaks with James Steward, Eulogy's Director of Technology. 2020 was a breakout year for companies in the green technology sector. James explains why it's the smaller companies working behind the scenes that have the biggest growth opportunities ahead of them.
And finally, we hear from Eulogy's experts on what the year will bring for the communications industry. Where will consumer brands need to focus their efforts? Will influencer marketing be shaken up? And how can creative campaigns appeal to distinct local communities?
The Headliner is a podcast by Eulogy – an award-winning communications agency that helps brands, businesses and organisations be known in the right way.
What do you want to be known for?
Tell us at eulogy.co.uk
The Headliner is back with a brand-new format. Bigger and better than ever.
Each month, join us as we run through three hot button topics in the world of media, marketing and communications. We’ll be joined by special guests, as well as our own gang of experts from Eulogy.
In this episode, host Matt Gray is joined by Nigel Clarkson, global chief revenue officer at Hivestack. Nigel has held leadership positions at Global, Exterion Media UK and Oath, and is a true expert in out of home (OOH), programmatic, radio and digital media.
He joins Elisabeth Field, our CEO, for our first feature, the Conversation. They discuss how our media landscape has changed over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic – driven by new consumption habits. Which new sources do people trust the most? How can news media brands that are struggling adapt to survive? And do we all have a responsibility to avoid sharing misinformation?
Nigel then explains what trends the digital out of home (DOOH) space is seeing in the wake of two lockdowns. Advertising consumption may be down in the major cities, but a rise in people shopping locally points to brighter opportunities ahead.
In this episode’s central feature, the Dive, Matt is joined by the authors of Eulogy’s Season’s Eatings food and drink report to discuss the importance of brand tone of voice – something consumer brands need to think carefully about in challenging times. How do you tailor your tone to suit your audiences? What channels should you consider? And how can a brand maintain accountability in its communications?
Finally, Rich Ware and Jonny Erazo explore the local theme in more detail. The pandemic has shaped our relationship with our local communities, but there hasn’t been one shared Covid-19 experience. How does it impact different groups, regionally and socially? How are local businesses stepping in to provide change and support in their communities and what lasting effect will this have?
The Headliner is a podcast by Eulogy – an award-winning communications agency that helps brands, businesses and organisations be known in the right way.
What do you want to be known for?
Tell us at eulogy.co.uk
Selected links
- Season’s Eatings by Eulogy
- Hivestack
- Eulogy - Twitter | LinkedIn
Follow our guests
- Nigel Clarkson – Global Revenue Officer, Hivestack Twitter | LinkedIn
- Elisabeth Field – Eulogy CEO Twitter | LinkedIn
- Matt Gray – Content Manager, Eulogy and host of the Headliner Twitter | LinkedIn
- Richard Ware – Director, Eulogy Twitter | LinkedIn
- Shannon Bailey – Associate Director, Eulogy LinkedIn
- Jonny Erazo – Senior Account Director, Eulogy LinkedIn
- Beth Hunt – Account Director, Eulogy Twitter | LinkedIn
- Kevan Barber – Creative Lead, Eulogy Twitter | LinkedIn
The death of George Floyd in Minneapolis has sparked a wave of activism across the world, concerning the treatment of black people in the US and elsewhere. Rich joins Matt to discuss when, or if, it's appropriate for brands to be vocal the Black Lives Matter movement, and what the communications industry can do to improve its own problems with diversity. Also, Rachael discusses the Facebook walkouts and the differing approaches of social platforms to the posts of President Trump.
On this week’s Headliner we take a trip to Barnard Castle with our founder, Adrian Brady, to discuss how Dominic Cumming’s missteps have affected government messaging. We stop at the new Facebook Shops – should Amazon be worried? Finally, we share our thoughts on the massive podcast deal between Joe Rogan and Spotify.
This week we mourn the loss of the news outlet for digital natives, BuzzFeed UK, and dissect brands’ contributions to Mental Health Awareness Week. We also hear from our very own James Steward, host of Eulogy’s very first tech webinar, on what to expect from next week’s event.
In presenter Chloe's final episode of the Headliner, we discuss the future of fashion magazines in the post-coronavirus era as advertising in print magazines declines by 50 per cent and editors attempt to overcome tonal challenges. Plus, Eulogy’s take on the government’s latest Covid-19 messaging.
This week on the Headliner: Eulogy CEO Lis Field shares her insight into how business should navigate both external and internal comms during the pandemic. We discuss the launch of the new NHS tracing app and look at the surprising lockdown impact on podcast listenership, and what the future might bring.
On this week’s Headliner, we discuss the rise in popularity of gaming during lockdown with Shannon Bailey. Then, Kevan Barber takes us through some of the best examples of recent advertising, explaining why creativity is now more important than ever before.
This week on the Headliner we discuss criticism of the handling of Covid-19 in The Sunday Times, and how the government delivered its rebuttal. We also look at the UK broadcast sector response to the production challenges during lockdown. Finally, James Steward shares his advice on what tech business should now be doing.
This week on the Headliner, we discuss the wave of positive social media content that is being produced to counteract dark times. We take a deep look at the social platform doing better than any other during the coronavirus pandemic, TikTok. Also, we discuss whether the press briefings in the UK and the US are working as efficiently as they could be.
As staying in is the new going out, we discuss the ways previously IRL experiences are being brought into our living rooms. We also tackle the tricky and contentious debate around Premier League footballers’ pay. Finally, Sara Beirne delves into how social media platforms have adapted and responded to Covid-19.
This week on the Headliner, we talk about the cancellation of April Fools’ Day pranks and speculate on how social distancing will affect dating. Finally, we discuss the negative impact on newspaper advertising revenue as targeting technology blocks ads from appearing next to stories mentioning COVID-19.
This week on the Headliner, we talk about the impact of Covid-19 on the media industry as well as the rise and rise of streaming. Our CSR expert in residence Susie Dullard discusses the impact of, you guessed it, Covid-19 on purpose-led campaigning. And in a welcome respite from the c-word, we also discuss the parliamentary pension fund cutting fossil fuel investments.
In the first ever remotely recorded episode of the Headliner, we talk to Richard Ware about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing on brands and advertising.
It goes without saying that there’s one story dominating the news agenda, and our lives: coronavirus. We discuss its pandemic status, the latest measures from the government (including the budget announcement) and the future of our economy. Meanwhile, Shell launches a questionable International Women’s Day campaign... All this and more, on the Headliner.
Love and coronavirus are in the air this week, as we ruminated on the announcement that Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds are engaged and expecting a baby. Along with millions of other viewers, we got hooked on Netflix’s new reality dating show, Love is Blind. And as coronavirus continues to spread, we discuss the impact on business and how governments are preparing for the economic fallout. Listen to this week’s edition of the Headliner for all this and more.
The coronavirus continues to spread across the globe, with the number of confirmed cases in the UK now at 19. Ex-Chancellor Sajid Javid delivered an impassioned resignation speech, claiming planned changes to the Treasury were 'not in the national interest'. Finally, Yorkshire Tea found it’s self in hot water on social media, after the new Chancellor posted a tweet praising the brand. All this and more on this week’s edition of the Headliner.
The climate crisis was a hot topic this week, as the world's richest man Jeff Bezos pledged a whopping $10 billion towards solving climate change. Meanwhile, car manufacturers are nervous that the UK could ban the sale of petrol and diesel cars in just 12 years. Finally, the CPS, news organisations and social media trolls have all faced criticism over their treatment of Caroline Flack, in the wake of her tragic suicide. All this and more on the Headliner.
On this week’s Headliner, love is in the air as we chat about KFC and Moonpig’s unlikely pairing to create scratch and sniff Valentine’s Day cards as well as Greggs’ and Asda’s trial courtship. Plus, South Korea and Natalie Portman steal the show at the Oscars while Google Maps celebrates its 15th birthday.
Half of the UK’s 10-year-olds own a smartphone, with the amount of phone owners doubling between the ages of nine and 10. Speaking to children in a high-pitched voice can add 40 words to a baby’s vocabulary, and Huawei helps teach deaf children to read through an app. Finally, Heinz and Fortnum & Mason couple up for Valentine’s Day. All this and more, on this week’s Headliner.
In the second episode of The Shape We’re In, Eulogy’s Phil Borge-Slavnich speaks to Rubies in the Rubble, Toast Ale and Too Good To Go about the unique ways they are tackling the challenge of wasted food, while giving us consumers more bite-sized options to make a difference.
The idea of wellbeing is wrapped up in the choices we make. If we choose to eat healthy, nutritious food, we expect to feel good. This idea of cause and effect is obvious, and personal. Our individual action has an individual impact. Yet increasingly, we are being encouraged to change our behaviours for a reason that may feel distant to us—but is arguably more vital than any other. Our environment. We’re feeling a growing sense of anxiety over the impact our food choices make.
Alongside watch outs like single-use plastics and the carbon footprints of specific foodstuffs, the mountainous issue of food waste, by volume alone, towers above the rest. What we need are some examples of inspiration. People who are making a difference to what we consume and doing good to the planet as they do it. Our guests share the brilliant ways they are taking on one of the biggest issues of our time, while inspiring the public to do the same.
This week on the Headliner: our guests sit down to talk about Barbie dolls embracing diversity, and the beauty industry gets a toxic reality check in a new documentary. Crucial fundraising continues for the Australian bushfires, but this week’s unavoidable story is a global health emergency – as coronavirus continues to spread. Listen now.
Comme des Garçons’ use of cornrow wigs is a major fashion flop that sparked accusations of cultural appropriation. The phone of Amazon Boss, Jeff Bezos, was reportedly hacked by the Saudi crown prince. Coca-Cola is refusing to ditch single-use plastic bottles, adamant that its customers still want them. Download the Headliner for all this and more.
‘Megxit’ dominated the news this week, as the Sussex announced their decision to step down as senior Royals. Meanwhile, Dominic Cummings called on weirdos and misfits to apply to join him at No. 10 and high street fashion staple Next bucked the trend with better than expected Christmas results. All this and more on this week’s edition of the Headliner.
Get stuck into 2020 with the 150th episode of the Headliner podcast. We chew over some of the biggest media trends of the last few years, before gazing into our crystal ball for what the future might bring. All in our sesquicentennial special. Now, try saying that three times in a row..
Wildfires continue to rage in Australia, with authorities issuing fresh warnings about a “mega blaze”. Boeing suspended prosecution of the 737 Max and Whirlpool announced the recall of more than half a million washing machines. Also, will a new tilted toilet design get employees up off the loo? It’s all on this week’s episode of The Headliner.
Love Actually often appears on our screens at this time of year, but on this week’s podcast it’s for an entirely different reason… Listen to our guests discuss the Conservative’s final election ad. Plus, there’s some lighter Christmas joy when we chat through a heartfelt advert from family store Haford Hardware, and a heated debate on Bounty bars.
This week on the Headliner, a grieving father writes a passionate plea to politicians following the tragic events on London Bridge. We get a sugar rush when discussing the healthiness of our favourite festive drinks before exploring David Hockney’s new twenty-first century direction. And why are bakers declaring war on supermarket sourdough? Finally, Dan Miles pops in to ponder whether we’re growing tired of collaborations between athletic companies and luxury fashion brands.
We discuss whether there are bargains to be had in the Black Friday sales, and marvel at Tesla’s shattering Cybertruck launch. We also scrutinise EasyJet’s pledge to operate net-zero carbon flights and dissect the motives behind Netflix’s purchase of the iconic Paris Cinema in New York. Tune into this week’s edition of the Headliner for more.
Looking for a topical news podcast? No sweat, we sink our teeth into Prince Andrew’s car-crash interview on BBC Newsnight. The Tories were widely criticised for changing the CCHQ press office’s Twitter name to ‘FactCheckUK’ during the ITV leaders’ debate. Finally, Disney+ launched with more than 10 million sign-ups on the first day, but leaving users frustrated with tech issues as the entertainment behemoth struggled to cope with demand.
Painfully contrived or a stroke of genius? We chat about THAT Boris Johnson campaign video and naughty Brewdog’s 'Sober as a Motherfu' campaign. Then, we ask if Clemmie Hooper's influencer trolling has caused irreparable damage to the Mother of Daughters brand, and celebrate as the Financial Times finally appoints its first female editor.
This week, we discuss Facebook’s rebrand and ask whether it is “boldly going where no brand has gone before”, the health of planet Earth as 11,000 climate scientists issue a stark warning about its future, and we leave the heliosphere altogether as we celebrate Voyager 2’s departure from the Solar System and tackle a cosmic conundrum in the calculation of the Hubble constant. Will we live long and prosper after the warp speed experienced in this edition of The Headliner? Only Captain Kirk can tell.
Never mind the wrapping paper, this December is all about the ballot paper as we gear up for our first December election since 1923. England crossed the (halfway) line when facing off against New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup semi-final. And Morrison kicked off the battle of the Christmas sandwiches with a divisive mince pie flavoured offering.
We tackle the latest Brexit confusion—will there be another extension, an election before Christmas, or both? Plus: changes to abortion and same-sex marriage laws in Northern Ireland, and Amazon makes a play in the gin market.
Say the words “health and wellbeing” and you’re likely to think of yoga, mindfulness and meditation. But a key part of staying healthy relies on what we put in our bodies. Good nutrition contributes to the state of both our bodies and our minds. And brands are making the most of this. In the first part of a new series, Eulogy’s Phil Borge-Slavnich speaks to two companies making waves in the sector, Neat Nutrition and Rude Health, as well as the world’s foremost fitness publisher, Men’s Health. What sets apart the fads from the fitness phenomena? And, more importantly, how do we know who to trust?
The royal ‘Fab Four’ take on Mental Health Awareness Week, the NHS opens a gaming addiction centre for children, Greggs is crowned brand of the year, and BrewDog announces a ‘hybrid’ burger.
Harry and Meghan’s tabloid lawsuit, Burger King’s whopper of a tweet, Banksy’s retail moves, and more.
Global climate change protests hit the headlines, Thomas Cook’s collapse leaves holidaymakers stranded, and Burger King ditches plastic toys in children’s meals.
This week, we look at how Extinction Rebellion has influenced the London Fashion Week catwalk while fantasising about the Downton Abbey Airbnb experience at Highclere Castle. Then, we explore the return of political music amongst this year’s Mercury Prize nominees. Remember to subscribe to The Headliner on your podcast platform of choice.
Fowl play from the Conservatives or an inspired PR campaign? We discuss Boris’s latest attack on the opposition, plus why Cadbury has dropped its name from packaging and Diet Coke’s foray into dating apps.
This week it’s (mostly) all about Boris. From proroguing to phantom elections, there’s rarely a dull day within the Palace of Westminster. In other news, why do half of parents want to ban mobile phones in schools? Is KFC’s new-found veganism a good idea? Join Chloe, Rich and Annabel for more.
This episode is a scorcher as we recover from the bank holiday heatwave and work up a fever of excitement over the new season of The Great British Bake Off. What’s more, the global media has been ablaze with stories of the devastating effect the fires in the Amazon could have on the health of the planet.
Harry and Meghan land in hot water after taking multiple private jets despite their public stance on climate change. Meanwhile, Facebook and Twitter have cracked down on state-run accounts campaigning against Hong Kong protesters, and Pret’s cookies have the whole team salivating.
On this week’s episode: Raheem Sterling eyes up a Nike deal, Greenland struggles with the effects of climate change and we find out which superhero would make the perfect corporate leader.
On this week’s episode: WhatsApp’s new name raises a sceptical chuckle, brands welcome back the Premier League and how we’re waking up to the benefits of sleep.
Matt and Jack are back for the Above the Fold podcast, a dive into the narratives shaping how we consume media. In this episode, the pair look at at the media behind the UK's new prime minister. How is Johnson changing his approach, now that he has the keys to No. 10? Also, which publications are going green? Why are digital magazines forming unions? And should media companies cave in to their audiences, or stick to their guns?
If you enjoy this podcast and The Headliner, make sure to visit eulogy.co.uk to subscribe to our monthly media newsletter, Above the Fold.
An optimistic Boris enters Downing Street, it’s the 50th anniversary of Apollo11’s moon landing, and Paddy Power ‘unsponsors’ Huddersfield Town FC.
What on Earth is ‘unlabelling’? Do influencers influence? How much should we be sleeping? And what’s Donald Trump done this time?
Love Island faces gaslighting criticism and ‘deepfakes’ threaten Hollywood humans, while Downing Street keeps sensitive information from big-mouthed Boris.
On this week’s episode of The Headliner: #UnwantedIvanka is side-eyed by world leaders at the G20 summit, the Women’s World Cup grips the attention of 11.7 million viewers and Nick Clegg tops the PRWeek US Power List.
Facebook’s fake news plea, Warner Bros’ new CEO, £1 bikinis, and Boris hits the front pages (again).
Boris Johnson skips TV debate, Wahaca's 'dine and dash' policy causes a stir, and ASOS launches a virtual catwalk.
The future of technology has been front and centre this week, with big news from Theresa May at London Tech Week and the latest – and sometimes controversial – gaming announcements at E3 in LA. YouTube also faced backlash following its LGBTQ+ logo update, while Reuters Digital revealed we don’t trust the media like we used to.
Languishing in the Trough of Disillusionment or the answer to humanity’s greatest challenges?
Join award-winning communications agency, Eulogy, for this special London Tech Week podcast, as we tackle some of the tech industry’s most pressing reputational challenges.
We’re joined by City AM, Hitachi Europe and electric vehicle start-up ARRIVAL, to debate the big issues fuelling the dystopian technological narrative. We discuss how tech companies can reframe the conversation to demonstrate the positive role they will play in everybody’s future.
The conversation gets heated this week as we discuss Donald Trump’s state visit, the return of Love Island and whether the aviation industry can ever be green. Finally, we revel in the excitement around this year's FIFA Women's World Cup.
We digest the European election results; Malaysia rejects 3,000 tons of contaminated plastic waste and the BBC announces a Gavin and Stacey Christmas special. This week’s episode of the Headliner is well lush.
This week on The Headliner, we bid farewell to F1 champion Nikki Lauda, and Game of Thrones arrives at its controversial finale. Meanwhile, we find out what truly makes the perfect sausage sarnie, and if salted-caramel is the new flavour of resistance.
ITV cancelled the Jeremy Kyle show following the death of a guest who took part in the programme. Meanwhile, a security flaw in WhatsApp let hackers place spyware on smartphones, and we discuss the fickle nature of football reporting.
ITV cancelled the Jeremy Kyle show following the death of a guest who took part in the programme. Meanwhile, a security flaw in WhatsApp let hackers place spyware on smartphones, and we discuss the fickle nature of football reporting.
On this week’s episode of The Headliner: The stork brings another royal baby, Uber prepares to go public and this year’s Met Gala goes camp
Matt and Jack are back for the Above the Fold podcast, a dive into the narratives shaping how we consume media. In this episode, the pair look at combative interviews, discuss why TV directors struggle to make content suited for streaming and explore how Spotify playlists are launching the careers of new musicians. As usual, they'll also be picking their monthly media heroes and villains. If you enjoy this podcast and The Headliner, make sure to visit eulogy.co.uk to subscribe to our monthly media newsletter, Above the Fold.
This week on the Headliner we’re all feeling the ‘Attenborough effect’, Carlsberg admits it’s probably not the best beer in the world and Daniel Craig dons his dinner jacket as he prepares to return to the role of 007. Meanwhile Sainsbury's trials the first checkout-less supermarket.
Diane Abbott caught drinking on the train, Theresa May risks ‘special relationship’ for Huawei deal, and the tragic death of Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKee.
A climate change protest and the devastating Notre Dame fire—two major stories, but which had the bulk of the media coverage and why? And, after months of anticipation, the battle for the Iron Throne is finally back on our screens.
Lego tops strongest brands list (again), Brunei faces boycott backlash, and Cadbury launches Creme Egg-flavoured mayonnaise.
Matt and Jack are back for Above the Fold, a dive into the media narratives that shaped the previous month. In this episode, the pair discuss brutal newsreader introductions, the launch of Apple News and how the tech giants are funding local UK news. The pair also decide on their monthly media heroes and villains. If you enjoy this podcast and The Headliner, make sure to visit eulogy.co.uk to subscribe to our monthly media newsletter.
On this week’s episode: Brexit brings us an improbable double act between Corbyn and May, while the BBC snaps up UKTV channels Dave and Gold in their most expensive acquisition ever. Meanwhile, there’s good news for the UK’s digital economy, as flat white-drinking millennials drive growth in finance and retail. And of course, it wouldn’t be April without a round-up of the best brand untruths.
Apple announced it was launching a streaming service, without saying what it will cost or when it be available. The first all-female spacewalk had to be cancelled after it was discovered there weren’t enough spacesuits to fit both women. And we get our chops around the most important debate of the week, which crisps truly belong in the ‘god tier’.
On this week’s episode: McNuggets go vegan, the Brexit discussion continues as deadline looms and we discuss media coverage of the Christchurch shootings.
On this week’s episode of The Headliner: All 4 rebrands for the binge-watching generation, football hooliganism rears its head, and could Elizabeth Warren bring the downfall of the tech giants?
Smart salad, Netflix teaching languages, and a viral goal celebration. We also give our verdict on Milk and Coke.
Matt and Jack are back for Above the Fold, a dive into the media narratives that shaped the previous month. In this episode, the pair discuss the Cairncross Review, grim outlooks for publications, attacks on cameramen and good, old-fashioned investigative reporting. If you enjoy this podcast and The Headliner, make sure to visit eulogy.co.uk to subscribe to our monthly media newsletter.
How diverse were this year’s Oscars? What’s special about IKEA’s new curtains? And what’s Alan Partridge up to This Time?
The life and influence of Karl Lagerfeld, calls for further regulation of social media platforms, “dangerous” AI and Honda’s plant closure. We also introduce the first instalment in our new Making the Headlines series.
On this week’s episode of The Headliner: dating apps come under pressure as M&S’ Love Sausage brings Valentine’s pleasure. Plus, the Cairncross Review looks at the future of local journalism in the UK.
Virgin Active’s pledge to get us more ‘me-time’, the Super Bowl 2019 and an egg cracks out its mental health campaign.
Join Matt and Jack in a brand new Eulogy podcast, Above the Fold. A companion podcast to Eulogy's monthly media newsletter, the two discuss the big media narratives from the month of January. From social gaffes, to publication closures, to media impartiality, find out the themes that are driving the agenda.
This week on the Headliner: Fyre Festival hits melting point, Tesco cuts down its ‘traditional’ grocer approach and Facebook’s latest ploy to integrate WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram
Poundland’s Valentine's joke causes heartache for the environment, Spice Girls’ charity t-shirts fail to support girl power, and Pizza Hut and Leeds United FC trade Twitter blows.
Gillette’s new ad divides opinion, Nike debuts self-tying laces, and the fashion industry has a vegan vision.
Controversial army recruitment posters, lorry drivers’ Brexit dress rehearsal, and the curious case of the Greggs vegan sausage roll.
London’s NYE fireworks send a message to Europe, drone sightings scupper Christmas plans, and the Instagram update that never was.
It’s our 100th episode special. Matt and Lis face off in an end-of-year quiz, and Eulogites chip in with their top media stories of 2018.
This week on The Headliner: The traditional Christmas dinner no longer tickles our fancy, David Attenborough says civilisation as we know it could collapse, and a British couple are reunited with an engagement ring lost in the sewers of New York.
This week on the Headliner: Google gives a helping hand to high street outlets, celebrating the life of a codebreaking Baroness, and the reasons behind Harry and Meghan’s big move are revealed.
This week on The Headliner: ‘John Lewis’ stars in Twitter’s tongue-in-cheek campaign, Black Friday causes a stir among Brits and a ‘sexist’ shop window from M&S comes under fire.
This week on The Headliner: Wildfires scorch thousands of acres in California, the John Lewis Christmas advert is unveiled and Coca-Cola scales back its UK festive truck tour after opposition from local authorities and health bodies. We also discuss the news that Deliveroo food delivery bags will display pictures of missing people.
This week on the Headliner: One hundred years after the end of the first world war, we look at the history of the Royal British Legion’s iconic poppy campaign, and where the future of fundraising lies. The first sign of the festive period has arrived, as Christmas sandwiches hit the shelves—but which ones are getting us the most excited? Also: why has Gregg’s flipped its logo? Which word has defined 2018? And why does the Guardian have cause for celebration?
This week on The Headliner: Rahul takes home the GBBO trophy, Philp Hammond introduces a new tax for tech giants, and proposals to change Twitter are not well liked. We also discuss William Sitwell’s resignation as editor of Waitrose Food magazine, after he joked about “killing vegans”.
This week on The Headliner: Ryanair faces controversy after a racist passenger causes trouble on the plane, whilst John Lewis announces that DVDs may have finally had their day. In Social Media Snapchat has been pipped to the post as Instagram becomes more popular among younger audiences. Finally, Thomas the Tank Engine announces a host of new, diverse train characters.
This week on The Headliner: Strictly dance partners Seann Walsh and Katya Jones are papped kissing, and the world goes gaga over the news that Meghan and Harry are expecting. Ladbible buys Unilad, and a new tool reveals that some influencers may not have the clout they claim.
This week on The Headliner: Heathrow airport has been fined is £120,000 for a data breach, Pret a Manger is engulfed in a reputational crisis and the WWF has used a hologram to get people talking about illegal wildlife trafficking. We also discuss the latest episode of The Apprentice and the news that Johnston Press has been put up for sale.
This week on The Headliner: Europe stands together in Ryder Cup triumph, the public reacts to new restaurant tipping rules, and this time it’s Boris running through fields of wheat. We also discuss a 26-year-old entrepreneur whose sportswear brand is already worth £100m, and calls for new guidelines limiting the time children spend on social media.
After months of speculation, the battle for Sky finally came to a head with Comcast out-bidding Rupert Murdoch’s Fox. The US cable giant submitted an eye-watering £30bn bid, equating to £17.28 per share. Shortly afterwards Fox announced it would sell all its shares—marking the end of Murdoch’s association with Sky, the business he founded in the 1980s.
Pret a Manger hit the headlines this week following the news that that teenager Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who had a severe sesame allergy, died after eating a sandwich that did not have its ingredients labelled. Her death came as allergy sufferers were warned of an EpiPen shortage, with manufacturer Mylan experiencing supply problems.
In need of a digital detox? Apple’s latest iOS update includes ‘Screen Time’, a new feature that logs how much time people spend using apps on their phones. But could this new feature impact campaigns on social media?
Finally, following a series of controversial campaigns and negative press, craft beer brand BrewDog has announced plans to ditch ‘shock tactics’ in favour of a more traditional marketing strategy. It admitted that recent campaigns have been ‘inappropriate’ and signalled a return safer territory, focusing on its products rather than wider social issues.
Jaguar Land Rover moved 2,000 staff at its Castle Bromwich plant to a three-day week, the manufacturer said they made the decision following difficult conditions in the industry, caused by Brexit and slumping sales of diesel-powered cars. Can this stall in UK car production be reversed?
The UK capital was extra glamorous this week as fashionistas jetted into town for London Fashion Week. Victoria Beckham's first UK show was declared a "runway" success. Her family were in the front row to support her, but did the smiling photos show the full picture?
A flurry of stories suggested that hugely popular video game Fortnite was responsible for 200 divorces a year. But a close look at the research by the Independent found that Fortnite’s marriage wrecking ability had been over exaggerated. A poorly worded press release? Or a calculated attempt to exploit the popularity of Fortnite?
Australia has been gripped by a national strawberry scare after sewing needles have been found hidden in the fruit. What would compel someone to commit this type of crime?
Finally, Dan joined us to talk through his Media Moment of Week. Ofcom has called for independent internet regulation, following new research warning that 20% of Britons have been harmed by web content. Should the internet be regulated and does Ofcom have the clout to do it?
Boris enters the single market
No stranger to controversy, Boris Johnson hit the headlines again this week after it was announced that he is to divorce his wife of 25 years, Marina Wheeler. With widespread rumours of an alleged affair with a former Conservative Communications Director, will these revelations damage his political future.
Meanwhile, a cartoon depicting Serena Williams sparked outrage on Twitter with many branding it racist and sexist. The image appeared in The Herald Sun, Australia’s most-read paper, and was defended by the cartoonist and the paper’s editor.
Mental health charity Mind released new figures highlighting that poor mental health affects half of all employees in the UK. What’s more, fear, shame and job insecurity were identified as reasons for not speaking up about these issues, something the charity is keen to change.
John Lewis and Waitrose kicked off a major rebranding campaign with a TV ad that premiered during last week’s episode of The Great British Bake Off. Complete with a classic Queen soundtrack and cast of school children, the multimillion pound commercial has received mixed reviews from consumers.
Finally, Rebecca joined us to talk through her Media Moment of Week. With Nationwide, Maltesers and McCain teaming up to highlight the social media backlash against disabled actors in their campaigns, will the specially edited ads make a positive difference?
Chris Evans announced live on air that he was leaving his regular post at BBC Radio 2, for a new role at Virgin Radio. But how will this effect Virgin Radio’s branding? And how will Radio 2 compete with the competition?
Former presidents from across the political spectrum united in their eulogies of the late US Senator John McCain—denouncing the political tactics of “insult and bombast”. So will this actually have an impact on online political debates?
After global criticism, Skype has announced it will be removing its new Snapchat-like features. What does this say about the impact of online criticism on a brand’s decision-making? And does this reflect a wider loyalty to a brand’s creative licencing?
There’s a lot we can learn from our grandparents: wisdom, family history and financial advice to name a few. But what exactly can they learn from us? Disney Kids recently revealed 20 things that grandparents can learn. But what does this really say about our generation? And what dance moves and Disney characters will our grandkids be teaching us about one day?
The Headliner is back, as the bakers returned. Yes, GBBO is back on our screens and we couldn’t be happier—being a firm full of baking fanatics ourselves. An impressive advertising campaign has drummed up a cake tin full of excitement, but people are already mining contestant news feeds to find controversy. What does the treatment of Bake Off contestants tell us about our own digital habits?
The sunny weather we’ve had this summer means things aren’t so golden for the agriculture industry. Vegetable prices have jumped, and their could be a bacon shortage on the way. Is it time to stockpile our carrots?
Facebook has removed 5,000 targeting options from its advertising platform. That may sound like a lot—but it’s a small splash in the ocean of the social media behemoth. Facebook has said it will stop brands being able to discriminate by ethnicity or religion, but will it limit companies’ ability to target effectively?
Warren Buffett. The sage of Omaha. The investing guru whose followers hang on his every word. Recently, it appears that the man himself has been sharing lessons from his seven-decade career on twitter, and he’s been lapping up the retweets. But is everything quite as it seems?
And Matt popped his head into the studio to discuss his Media Moment of the Week. Is 96% of reporting on Trump really, as the President claims, from “left wing” news outlets?
Yet more turbulence for Ryanair. Customers were sent compensation cheques, without signatures, which bounced when they tried to cash them. Will this latest media storm further weather Ryanair’s already beleaguered reputation?
Jamie Oliver cooked up a controversy with his punchy jerk rice, which Labour MP Dawn Butler called cultural appropriation. Was it the misuse of ‘jerk’ that was objectionable or, as Zoe Williams claimed in the Guardian, was it a rich man “making money from an inauthentic dish, while those who eat the real thing get diddly-squat”?
To promote its signature collection, McDonald’s launched its first reservation-only luxury restaurant for one day only in Kensington—complete with a string quartet and diamond-encrusted cutlery. The journalists who attended were lovin' it. Is this the fancy future of Maccy D’s?
PepsiCo has announced it is buying SodaStream for $3.2bn (£2.5bn). Will the deal see the business dominate the soft drinks market?
Plenty of parents would agree that kids today spend way too much time inside on their screens. But how can they be tempted to play outside again? Well, as part of their ‘Dirt is Good’ campaign, Omo (Persil to us in the UK) has found the answer: a book that can only be read when smeared in dirt. Will this encourage more children to play outside? Or do tech companies need to work harder to prevent screen addiction from a young age?
New research has found that a tenth of young women in the UK have struggled to pay for pads and tampons during their periods. That’s why Hey Girls UK has released its own ‘make your own sanitary pad’ to highlight the lengths and efforts that many girls and women are forced to go through during this time. So how is this campaign using shock to make us think? And why has it been successful so far?
The world of Botox is about to change forever. That’s what some believe, as Superdrug launched its £99 Botox and filler treatment in its flagship store on the Strand, London. But why are experts concerned? And how could this change public perceptions of the Superdrug brand?
Spare change is increasingly on the decline, and we may all be living in a cashless society sooner than expected. However, those wishing to donate may still have a way of doing so, as an Oxford University-backed initiative is testing a way for passers-by to donate to the homeless through barcodes. So will this encourage passers-by to donate if they don’t have change?