News

14 August 2009

Harrogate publisher scoops Magazine of the Year Award

Harrogate-based publisher Barker Brooks Media is celebrating following its recent win at this year's Trade Association Forum's (TAF) Best Practice Awards. 'The STEP Journal', which it publishes for members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, won the Magazine of the Year award at the glittering black tie event held at London's Intercontinental Hotel on Park Lane.

The STEP Journal scooped the coveted prize after fighting off tough competition from finalists ABTA - The Travel Association, the British Insurance Brokers Association, the Dental Laboratories Association, the National Farmers Union and the International Federation of Periodical Press.

Lucy Barker Chief Executive of Barker Brooks Media Ltd said: "The STEP Journal is the trust industry's premier publication - synonymous with substance, style and sophistication.

“This award is testament to the commitment of everyone involved with the magazine at STEP and Barker Brooks to maintain the highest of standards.”

STEP Managing Editor Louise Polcaro said: “This award recognises the efforts of all of the STEP members that put so much of their time and effort into making the STEP Journal into the industry-leading publication it is. I wish to make special mention of contract publishers Barker Brooks Media, who work hard each month to ensure that the publication is of the highest quality.”

A spokesperson from TAF said: “Many Trade Associations now produce glossy magazines for their members. What the judges were looking for was therefore a magazine that provides high quality articles of specific relevance to the members in a clear format and is cost effective in communicating the organisation's messages.

“The STEP Journal is an exemplar in Trade Associations magazines.”

STEP is a unique professional body providing its 14,500 members with a local, national and international learning and business network focusing on the responsible stewardship of assets today and across the generations. It provides education, training, representation and networking for its members. Members advise clients on the broad business of the management of personal finance.

Barker Brooks Media Ltd offers a full range of communications and commercial services to a diverse selection of clients, from publishing and design services, to PR and event management. It also has a well-connected sales and sponsorship department.

All media enquiries: Jane Burgess jane.burgess@barkerbrooks.co.uk

Barker Brooks Media (01423) 851150

Note to editors

• Barker Brooks Media (BBM) was established in 2000
• The company was founded by the current Chief Executive, Lucy Barker
• BBM's roots are in publishing, but the company has developed to provide a range of services including creative/design services; events management; sales and sponsorship; public relations; and the provision of models and exhibition staff
• BBM can offer a one-stop shop for all of its clients' communications needs
• In 2006, BBM moved to new, 6,500 sq ft offices in Cardale Park, Harrogate
• It now employs a team of journalists, designers and sales people