[APEX awards 2015] Attendees' opinions unveiled, part 3
So many agencies, so many award shows, so many opinions. Here's what some of the representatives who are set to attend next week's 20th APEX awards Gala evening are hoping to see, and how they think the industry can improve...
Their mature approach, effectiveness-centricity, and of course DDB last year winning the grand prix on its FNB work all make the APEX awards stand out for Kenneth Garvie, Head of Digital at DDB SA. We asked Garvie for more insights; as well as fellow attendees James Barty, Chief Executive Officer at King James Group; and Alan Bell, MD of the Hardy Boys.
Garvie, Barty, Bell
1. Sum up your views on the state of local advertising and communication in a sentence...
Garvie: It seems radio we never get to hear in SA is winning great awards abroad.
Barty: Healthy, but challenging and evolving quickly.
Bell: The challenge for all advertising and communication is to remain locally relevant.
2. There are so many industry awards, local and global, what makes the APEX awards stand out for you?
Garvie: It is truly about effectiveness, the reason we all have jobs. If not for effectiveness, there would be little reason for an agency to exist. There are awards that are all about having a good time, but APEX is far more mature in its approach and winning at APEX is a massive honour... so DDB last year winning the grand prix on FNB really stands out!
Barty: It is our industry's primary award that recognises the business-generating power of creative ideas - the undeniable link between creativity and effectiveness.
Bell: The APEX awards has successful case studies at its core, giving it additional relevance.
3. What do you expect from the Gala night?
Garvie: A really well-run black-tie event. Some industry leading work to be presented to all. Of course, some healthy debate around campaigns and clients' budgets.
