The Media School

PR students work with local business

23 December 2010

Public Relations students gain valuable practical skills, whilst helping a local business.

A group of Bournemouth University (BU) students have implemented an online marketing strategy for a local shop ‘Sam and Sebastian’.

The five BA (Hons) Public Relations undergraduates have taken on the challenge as part of their Interactive Media Strategies unit.

Fourth year Gemma Louise-Diaper is part of the group. She said: “We are looking to launch an eBay store allowing an online revenue source for the shop. We’ll also create a sense of community by linking all the online platforms together, as well as giving them the tools to showcase their stock online.”

‘Sam & Sebastian’ is a family owned shop in Bournemouth Arcade, selling home wares and gifts. Their product range includes candles, jewellery and decorations and stock is constantly being refreshed.

Interactive Media Strategies unit leader Mike Molesworth said: “The unit addresses the changes taking place in the media world and how the emergence of digital technology has provided a new platform for marketing and communication, and the introduction of new cultures and consumer practices, and more importantly understanding the impact these new technologies can have.”

Gemma added: “Online media and social networking is going to be very prominent in the working environment and after completing this group assignment we can all enter the workplace confident in engaging with social media.”