A multi-channel approach to adventure

Unlike other hotels, which encourage you to stay and spend as much time (and money) as possible, The Old Stocks is different. The team, or ‘troupe’ as they are better known, are local people with local knowledge, who are on hand to recommend places to see, eat and drink, even if that means encouraging a visit to a direct competitor.

We helped The Old Stocks Inn to demonstrate its unique vision from the ground up – literally. We were on hand to support the team as the hotel underwent significant renovations, creating anticipation through local PR, social media and custom hoarding. When the work was finally done, we designed uplifting, quirky messages for light boxes to project onto various parts of the hotel, from ‘it’s never too early’ in the bar to ‘mind the gap’ on one of the hotel’s characterful staircases. Our unique ‘do not disturb’ signs have a chalkboard side for guests to leave messages for staff or other guests, and our in-room pack has an intricate fold that reveals a map showcasing the troupe’s hidden gems.

Putting The Old Stocks on the map

While The Old Stocks Inn already had a logo and brand proposition, we consulted on the strategy that would extend to every aspect of the hotel. The responsive website we created has user-generated content at its very heart, which keeps the site fresh and interesting. A unique wall of guests’ Instagram pictures features on the homepage, and visitors are encouraged to upload photos that capture their Cotswolds experience using the hashtag #oldstocksinn. There’s an interactive ‘things to do’ map and a section dedicated to beautiful dog walks in the area, inspired by our very own office dog, Wilf. We hand-drew local landmarks and made them into bespoke wallpapers that feature alongside the hotel’s stunning photography, which we planned, commissioned and art directed.

A few months after opening, we commenced an intensive PR reviews programme and achieved visits from, and coverage in, The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian, Condé Nast, Elle Decoration, Country Living and various regional publications. To boost SEO and engage a wider audience, we also targeted travel bloggers and online magazines, reaching hundreds of thousands of people.