One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to free-pitching

Regarding the letter from Natasha Lindsay (DW 27 January), there are various reasons as to why design consultancies will find it hard to say no consistently to free pitches, not to mention the temptation of a large pay-day.

Refusing to pitch for free should be a benchmark – something to work toward, depending on where you are in the grand scheme of things – but there seems to be only a ‘one size fits all’ solution.

We, all of us, can ask for the pitch to be paid for by way of a donation to a charity. This way design is not seen as a dispensable commodity, but as a tangible service, and for the consultancy that wishes to appear eager and capable, it isn’t made to look greedy or needy, but concerned for a wider issue.

The other benefit is that we can show our support for our clients with charitable status by getting them donations for pitch work and for the unscrupulous of us a play can be made for the donation money by way of a ‘we’ve got a great idea for you’. Or is that free pitching again?

Martin Roach

Creative director

Epitype Branding Group

London W4