Freeserve squares up to AOL <br>with multimillion-pound drive

LONDON - UK ISP Freeserve is turning up the heat on rival AOL with the launch of a multimillion-pound advertising and marketing campaign.

The TV ad campaign, developed by M&C Saatchi, comprises a 30-second commercial using the "be freeserve" theme featured in earlier ads. The campaign aims to highlight Freeserve's pledge to offer access to the whole internet rather than access to a walled garden in the same way as rival ISPs.



The ads also draw attention to the ISP's £12.99-a-month unmetered internet access package, Freeserve AnyTime.



The TV work, which breaks this week, will run nationally across major terrestrial and satellite channels. The TV campaign will run in tandem with press, online and radio activity.



Additionally, the above-the-line campaign will be supported by a direct marketing drive and in-store promotions.



The in-store promotions will give Freeserve members the chance to save up to £500 when they buy online with Dixons, Currys, PC World and The Link.



Freeserve managing director of marketing Keith Hawkins said, "Some ISPs prefer to nanny their users around the confines of a walled garden. Freeserve has always rejected this approach and instead invites its members to enjoy the freedom of all the internet has to offer."



Freeserve launched three years ago last month. This is the first marketing campaign it has undertaken since it was taken over by French firm Wanadoo last spring.




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