AURA Presents First Awards

AURA, the UK association of research clients, presented its first ever awards this week, at its Summer Party at London's Hurlingham Club.

The awards aim to acknowledge agencies that help clients to bring insight into their businesses. AURA members nominated agencies in three award categories, and voted a winner for each starting with a shortlist of 30 agencies.

The commercial context award - for an agency focused on developing the implications of research - went to Quadrangle and was accepted by Ben Skelton, Research Director.

The clear communication award - for an agency conveying results in a clear and engaging way - went to newly rebranded Join the Dots, formerly known as Virtual Surveys, and was accepted on their behalf by Graeme Lawrence, Director of Sales and Marketing.

The most wanted award went to Truth, for constantly pushing boundaries, being forward thinking and progressive with the potential to truly deliver consultancy - and was accepted by its founder and Head, Andy Dexter.

Awards were also given for notable contributions to AURA itself, including best papers at AURA meetings and ongoing contribution of expertise. The event was run in partnership with The Insight Show, which closed yesterday.

AURA says it has developed well in the last few years, with membership rising to 480 members in 160 organisations and estimated to directly control or influence about a third of all UK research expenditure; and seminars and training days consistently attracting 60 to 80 members, and good reviews.

Chairman Richard Drury of Boots comments: 'AURA is delighted to recognise those agencies that our members find really deliver what they are looking for... The award-winning agencies have all demonstrated to our members that they can get that wider perspective on customer insight right.'

Web site: www.aura.org.uk .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.