Pitch Positive Pledge

By Paul Phillips

This year saw the introduction of the Pitch Positive Pledge, an initiative supported by the IPA and ISBA, championed by Julian Douglas, President of the IPA.

Whilst not the first initiative to address the pitch experience, its motivation came from a different place, namely to improve the behaviours of agencies and advertisers around pitching for the benefit of its people, the planet and profit.

The pledge asks for three commitments: 1. Be positive that a pitch is required 2. Run a positive pitch 3. Provide a positive resolution

It’s encouraging to know that the sentiment and manner in which AAR has always strived to support brand owners and agencies in their pitch requirements is reflected in and endorsed by the pledge. And while bad behaviours are not going to be eradicated overnight, if at all, shining a light on the issues with a positive intent is to be applauded.

We are active supporters of the pledge ensuring that the brands we support act in a manner that’s entirely in keeping with the sentiment and ambition of the PPP; something we will continue to do.

At the time of writing there were 178 agency, 41 intermediary and 21 brand owner signatories reported on the Pitch Positive Pledge website. ●