1284 Communications has been named Midlands Small PR Agency of the Year by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).
The win was one of three awards presented to 1284 Communications at a ceremony which took place at Birmingham’s Book Rotunda on 23rd April.
Triple win
Small Agency of the Year Award – recognises consultancies that consistently punch above their weight on results, innovation and client service. 1284’s win reflects a period of sustained growth and impact.
Independent industry judges considered 1284’s growth and focus on embedding independently audited standards – including ISO 9001, Crown Commercial Supplier and Cyber Essentials Plus – as evidence of its continuous improvement approach.
Judges said: “In a competitive category, the team at 1284 Communications stood out for their commitment to CPD and innovation. EDI, ethics, and ESG are embedded at the heart of their work, driving strong growth and client retention.”
The Best Use of AI Award – in recognition of 1284’s research and development role in developing the AI News Editor platform, alongside associate Digital Planning, for the Chamber.
Judges said: “The AI News Editor transformed editorial processes and freed up time for proactive communications, standing out for its strong collaboration both internally and with the news industry.”
The Rising Star Award – presented to 1284 Account Executive Lauren Cropper. The award celebrates the next generation of talent powering 1284’s success. Over the last year, Lauren completed an apprenticeship, took on management of key accounts, secured multiple award shortlists and became the agency’s ISO 9001 Internal Auditor.
Judges said: “Lauren has achieved rapid progression and impressive results. Her entry stood out for her commitment to development and collaboration, quickly becoming a key member of the 1284 team.”
1284 Communications Managing Director George Oliver said: “To come away with three Golds from our three entries was a big endorsement of what we are working to achieve at 1284.
“These awards recognise what 1284 cares about – delivering measurable, targeted results for our clients; application of innovation in a smart and ethical way; scheduled fixed time for volunteering projects; and creating space and resources for our talented people to grow.”
Rising Star Award winner Lauren Cropper said: “Being recognised as a Rising Star at the Midlands CIPR Awards means a lot at this stage in my career. It reflects the support I’ve had at 1284, the brilliant clients I get to work with every day, and the opportunities I’ve been given to step up and make a difference.”
Photos: courtesy Shaun Fellows, Shine Pix
