Communique loses major account to ex-employee

Jaime Markey managed the Velcro account at Communique, but left last year to start Jam PR.

Communique was expected to repitch for the fastener company’s UK business, which it wor­ked on for more than five years.

However, MD Nigel Sarbutts said he had no choice but to res­ign the account, claiming it had devalued. ‘Years ago it was quite substantial, but we could not repitch for budgetary reasons,’ he said.

Communique’s work with Velcro included a partnership with Jimmy Saville, who end­orsed the ‘Velcro brand’ll fix it for you’ marketing campaign.

Jam PR will provide a press office function for Velcro as well as launching new home, garden, office and classroom products in 2008. The fledgling agency will also handle the opening of the brand’s new Cheshire office.

Jam PR’s client list already includes skincare line The Celtic Herbal Company, regional drinks outfit Lancashire Tea and interiors retailer Judy Holme Originals.