(L - R): Paul Swalwell, BIPC business engagement and marketing manager and Charlotte Nichols, Harvey & Hugo managing director.

North East PR agency teams up with British Library to provide “expert” business support

A North East PR agency has partnered with the British Library to offer “expert advice” to business owners in the region.

Harvey & Hugo, which is based in Darlington but works with clients across the UK, will be working with the British Library’s national network of Business and IP Centres (BIPCs) at its regional hub in Stockton Central Library.

BIPCs offer free resources, training and events to anyone who is looking to start or grow their own business, and members of the Harvey & Hugo team will be on hand as experts in residence.

Managing director Charlotte Nichols said: “I was delighted to be asked to be involved and I’m so proud that we’re considered experts within the region.

“I’ve been aware of the work of the BIPC for a long time through the British Library in London; I was a member there, and used the services for business, as well as presenting a talk about PR and culture.

“As experts in residence, we’ll be answering questions and providing guidance for start-ups and business owners, as well as hosting webinars on our specialist subject – PR and marketing.”

BIPC Tees Valley offers a range of services, including guidance from the Intellectual Property Office, access to £5m of online marketing reports and training sessions and webinars on every aspect of setting up and running a business.

Paul Swalwell, BIPC business engagement and marketing manager, said: “It’s great to see the network of BIPCs spreading across the country and I’m sure the Tees Valley branch will be a great success.”

Charlotte added: “The BIPC network is a fabulous idea and a great way of getting more people to use the wonderful libraries the region has to offer. With more people than ever working from home, they can use the BIPC’s facilities while also meeting like-minded individuals.”

The PR agency’s Pay-as-Hugo service was revamped and relaunched earlier this year, offering a range of contract-free services, all of which can be ordered and paid for through its dedicated e-commerce site.

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