ITV is on course to dedicate prominent coverage to the importance of greeting card sending as part of its 6pm news programme this Friday (March 20) that will be seen by millions of people all over the UK. The GCA has worked closely with the ITV team to create the main story highlighting Mother’s Day card sending, but each of ITV regional teams will then be blending this with vox pops featuring members of the public in their respective areas.
“It was a great opportunity to be able to work with ITV to create what is likely to be positive PR for the whole greeting card sector, reinforcing the importance of sending cards, not just to our mums, but to so many others who will be feeling isolated and fearful in these challenging times,” Amanda Fergusson, ceo of the GCA told PG Buzz.
It is hoped that each of the ITV regions will be broadcasting the footage meaning that it will be seen everywhere in the UK with the exception of London.
The main film was shot on location in Postmark’s Turnham Green shop. “We felt it was important to be able to demonstrate the sheer wealth of creative talent that we have in UK card publishers producing this very special product that enables a powerful connection between people.”
The GCA’s card publishing and retailing members are being encouraged to help ‘spread the love’ by making contact with care homes and donating cards so that residents can write to their relatives and friends at this time when direct contact is not being advised.
“At times like this, particularly for those who are at home on their own, the connection brought by receiving a physical card is important,” says Amanda. “Sometimes we forget the restorative power of receiving a card. I sent several cards this weekend to elderly neighbours and relatives who I know are very worried about being housebound and isolated and they were grateful for the contact. Sending a card is not a cure for the Coronavirus, but at least in doing so we can make people feel more cared for.”
Top: ITV journalist Lauren Hall (left) with GCA’s Amanda Fergusson on location in Postmark’s Turnham Green shop.
