Beeld takes first prize at international newspaper awards

The INMA Newspaper Marketing Awards Competition generated 1 045 entries from 29 countries around the world. Judging for circulation categories under 75 000, 75 000 - 300 000 and over 300 000, took place in Miami by advertising, newspaper and marketing professionals. The prestigious awards were presented at the INMA World Congress at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, by INMA President, Elvind Thomsen of Oslo, Germany.

Beeld claimed the award in the Category 'Managing Reader Relationships' for its innovative television advertising campaign, produced by Wilma Botha from ATTV Communications, for the paper's Infinity Card, illustrating benefits to Beeld subscribers through a lively and fun-loving animated character. Using humorous animatronics to deliver an effective message, target markets were informed and educated through appealing and endearing visuals.

The newspaper's Infinity Card includes lifestyle benefits from over 2000 participating partners, savings on accommodation, meals at Mugg & Bean, and discount shopping at Mica Hardware stores, to name a few. Cash-back rewards are also available from, and redeemable at, participating outlets.

"The submission by Gavin Rheeder, Marketing & Communications Manager for Beeld, won the award hands down in the allotted category," says Lucille van Niekerk, General Manager. "Needless to say we are thrilled by the news. As a media owner, Beeld is committed to marketing our product effectively throughout South Africa and globally. The coverage and acknowledgement received by INMA is one of the highest compliments received."

INMA is a non-profit association dedicated to promoting advanced marketing principles within the industry and boasts more than 1000 members in 68 countries.