The BPMA are delighted to announce that, following a fantastic Pitch Day for the Comic Relief Design Challenge on 7th November, a final four have been selected.
The challenge called on BPMA members to design a brand-new item of merchandise for Comic Relief that captures its essence and stands as a year-round symbol of its work beyond the traditional Red Nose Day and Sport Relief campaigns. Designs were encouraged to consider sustainability, inclusivity and accessibility and how best to embody the Comic Relief ethos of humour and heart. The BPMA were hugely impressed by both the quality and quantity of submissions received from members. After much consideration, eight shortlisted member companies were invited to present their ideas in a “Dragons’ Den” style pitch event on 7th November.
Held at the original Dragons’ Den studio in North London, the pitch event offered the eight shortlisted companies the unique opportunity to step into the iconic set and experience what it’s like to pitch under the pressure of the “dragons’” gaze. Against the backdrop of the original studio, complete with lighting, cameras, and a full production crew, the day delivered all the intensity and excitement of a real television moment.
The day wouldn’t have been complete without a panel of expert “dragons”. Each pitch impressed a panel of representatives from Comic Relief and the BPMA Board, showcasing the imagination, expertise and energy that define the promotional merchandise sector. The judging panel featured Becky Yeoh (Comic Relief), Greg Leaney (Comic Relief), Clive Allcott (DTB) and Melissa Chevin (Globefish Consulting), who collectively brought a wealth of insight, brand expertise and commercial understanding to the evaluation process.
The atmosphere was one of both nerves and excitement as pitches got underway one by one. The shortlisted companies taking to the floor were: Sycal, Juniper, Total Merchandise, Wild Thang, Far ‘n’ Beyond, Exceptio, Bizz Badge and Brand Addition. Each company delivered an incredible pitch, highlighting creative product design, sustainability credentials and commercial potential.
After much deliberation, the dragons selected four finalists: Brand Addition, Exceptio, Sycal and Total Merchandise, whose concepts will now progress to the final stage of the competition.
Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive, with participants and judges alike praising the creativity, professionalism and shared enthusiasm that filled the studio.
John Howarth from Wild Thang shared: “The energy, creativity, and passion in that room was unreal – every pitch was next-level and such a brilliant reminder of the talent we have in our industry. A huge thank you to everyone who made the day so special – our fellow pitchers, the production crew, and of course the BPMA and Comic Relief teams. Truly, a day to remember!”
The BPMA extends its thanks to all participating members, the judges and the Comic Relief team for making the event a truly memorable one. The final winner will be revealed at the BPMA 60th Anniversary Celebration featuring the Product Awards, on 11th December, where the industry will come together to celebrate 60 years of the BPMA and recognise the most innovative and exciting promotional products of the year.
