Shepherd Neame appoints RPM3 Beechwood

Shepherd Neame has moved a majority of its advertising into RPM3 Beechwood. The Kent-based brewer has parted company with Hooper Galton as a result of the move but will retain JWT.

RPM3 Beechwood already handled the Spitfire brand and Asahi Super Dry, which Shepherd Neame has the license to manufacture and market, which was with Hooper Galton. JWT will continue to handle Bishops Finger.

Last month, the company announced that in the year to June 28 operating profit before exceptionals dropped 9.3% to £12.6m, compared to the previous period. Pre-tax Profit and exceptionals also went down to £9.1m, compared to £10.5m in 2007.

Shepherd Neame chairman, Miles Templeman, said its performance had been “resilient” despite the fact that margins had been squeezed by “significant increases” in its input costs, such as malt, glass, utilities and food.

RPM3 Beechwood was formed in December last year, following the merger of independent agencies RPM3 and Beechwood. Its clients include Butlins, Alliance & Leicester, HMV, Babyliss, Airport Express and Associated British Foods.