At last, someone sees light at the end of the tunnel

I read Sir Martin Sorrell’s comments on recession and the design industry (News, DW 12 March) with interest.

Undoubtedly, this year is going to be a challenging one for the design sector, but I hope it won’t be all doom and gloom.

In my opinion, the design industry is at its most creative when we have our backs to the wall.

At our consultancy, we are beginning to see flashes of light, especially when it comes to new business. Without a doubt, now is not the time to be resting on our laurels – we need to show innovation, and it is hugely important to keep moving forward through this difficult time. As with all economic downturns, there are some positives to be had. I believe that consultancies showing forward-thinking this year will see the rewards when the economy recovers.

Sorrell referred to the last recession as ‘bath-shaped’, but I like to think this one is more torch-shaped – long, dark and cold, but with a lot of light at the end of it.

Cliff Owen, Design director,

White Zone, by e-mail