Speedo swims with Purple Circle

Speedo will unveil a £250 000-plus suite of spring/ summer 2003 literature, created by Purple Circle, in May. The consultancy won the project in an unpaid four-way creative pitch last November.

It has designed four pieces of literature, as well as ‘intermediate’ versions of the work that will be sent to key Speedo clients in a fortnight. It will be paid a six-figure sum for the project, which includes branding and designing supporting literature for Speedo’s European marketing conference in the summer. The job is understood to be worth £250 000. Purple Circle managing director Michael Slack refuses to comment.

Purple Circle is producing three catalogues, for swimwear, fashion and beachwear and accessories, and a retail trend forecast. All are aimed exclusively at the retail trade.

Meanwhile, Speedo is hoping to launch a catalogue for consumers within three months and the consultancy will be appointed to design it, says Slack.

Slack describes the design of existing Speedo catalogues as lacking energy.