In memory of David Bolsher

David was an energetic, respected and well liked consumer marketer who had a positive impact in all the organisations at which he worked during his 24-year career that was tragically cut short.

He started his career with United Biscuits (UB) in 1989 working at Ross Young’s for six years. McVitie’s followed, leading the launch of the ‘Go Ahead’ brand.

In 1997 he moved to Australia with its Smith Snack Foods before returning as international marketing controller.

After over ten years with UB, David joined Sarah Lee Bakeries before then beginning a career as a senior interim marketer. Projects included Campbell’s, Premier and UB.

For the past eight years David was the board director at Denby Pottery leading marketing, online and retail functions, making a significant contribution to the business.

David was a great all-round team player and knew how to get the very best out of the people he worked with in all parts of the organisation. All those who worked with David enjoyed his sense of fun and admired his passion for brands and ideas that could transform a business.

The marketing community has lost a great character and a true professional.

A service to celebrate David’s life will be held at St Helen’s Church, Escrick on Monday 27 January at 1.30pm. Donations in memory of David to St Helen’s Church, St Leonard’s Hospice and ‘York and District against Motor Neurone Disease’.

Linda Salt, communications manager for heritage brands, Denby Pottery

 

A new visual cue for ecommerce

Asos seems to be ahead of the game when it comes to online shopping, with e-commerce innovation driving its impressive performance. The company clearly understands the importance of personalisation – whether that be helping customers find a particular look or discover a new brand – and should invest in digital tools that make the customer’s journey as smooth and as exciting as possible. 

The next stage for online retailers is enabling ‘discovery shopping’, especially when personal style and look can be difficult for consumers to find or articulate with just a few keywords. With younger generations of shoppers being much more visually connected with the web, there is an opportunity here for online retailers to integrate visual search technology into their product suite.

Adrian Moxley, co-founder and chief marketer, WeSEE

 

How to keep raising the retailing bar

While loyalty schemes do engage customers, it is important that supermarkets continue to find new methods of attracting them. This month Morrisons launched its online shopping service, and while a little later than other stores, the extra time has given it scope to refine the delivery process and provide the service shoppers seek. There are other ways: private label ranges increase desirability of retailers, while others are engaging shoppers throughout the development process of new products. Take Asda’s Chosen by You, which leverages the social media focus group.

Retailers must continue to rejuvenate existing or introducing new lines to meet shopper expectations, create differentiation and outdo the competition. Bringing convenience and getting the customer involved at a higher level should not be overlooked.

Ray Kieser, group managing director, SGK Europe

 

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