The Premier Foods payment terms controversy that surfaced in 2014 is one of a number of stories that have led to small marketing agencies asking whether they can afford to work with big corporate clients.
“Pay to play” and “pay to stay” are just two modern payment practises that have caused friction between brands and their suppliers. Brands argue they’re not to blame the victim of changes in the rest of the supply chain. Small agencies, on the other hand, argue they’re sometimes being treated like a bank, rather than a respected and equal business partner, which in turn inhibits quality of work they produce. Marketing agencies aren’t alone in expressing concern about this issue: 20% of small businesses in the UK have said they’ve been the victim of some form of corporate bullying, according to the Federation of Small Businesses.
The Guardian is hosting an event on Weds 2 September 2015 to convene a panel of independent experts and industry representatives to discuss this issue and chart the way forward. This will include:
- Shane Hickey, business journalist, the Guardian (chair)
- Ian Graham, partner, Kingston Smith
- Scott Knox, managing director, Marketing Agencies Association
- Gary Bramall, chief marketing officer, Hailo
- Jonathan Trimble, chief executive, 18 Feet & Rising
- Tina Fegent, marketing procurement consultant
Questions to be explored with the expert panel and during the audience Q&A include:
• What can be done to improve the payment practices of large corporations to help small suppliers thrive?
• Has government consultation and action on this issue done enough to smooth over relations between parties?
• What are the implications for the wider economy if payment terms issues go unresolved?
Applications for this event are now closed.
Please contact chris.smith.freelance@guardian.co.uk for any inquiries.
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