Keeping UK In The Spotlight

Imagine these… kings, queens, knights, warrior horses, armours and swords.

Many would immediately relate to the legendary United Kingdom, land of the Queen. Indeed, there is more to the UK than just those mentioned – the country is rich with prominent traditions of sports, music, royal occasions, literature, architecture, myths and legends.

Before the formation of the United Kingdom, the history of the British Isles began with the settlement of Celtic tribes, invasions from Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings; through the Norman conquest of England in 1066, giving rise to political, administrative and cultural institutions which remain characteristic of Britain, including representative governance, law systems and distinguished contributions to the arts and sciences.

After the victory in the Seven Years’ War which ended in 1763, the dominance of the British Empire grew stronger as the largest empire in history. Its persistence also set off the industrial revolution as the first industrialised country and the world’s foremost power in the 19th century and early 20th century. Although the economic cost of two world wars and the decline of its empire in the late 20th century diminished its leading role in global affairs, the culture of the United Kingdom, particularly its industrial, political and linguistic legacy is_widespread.

With a new formal title of “United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland” adopted in 1927, United Kingdom (as mostly used) became a unitary state comprising of four countries – England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Following World War II, most of the territories of the British Empire become independent and many joined the Commonwealth of Nations while some retained the British monarch as their head of state. In its capacity as a great power, the United Kingdom remains a strong economic, cultural, military and political influence in the 21st century.

Growing by leaps and bounds over the centuries like many other successful centurion brands, United Kingdom revels in its persistence and perseverance while continuously upholding its brand focus towards constant development and growth. Among the earliest achievements include the Stonehenge, which was completed in 2,000 BC through focused teamwork of dragging each stone into place (www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch
.uk/customs/questions/landmarks.htm).

Today, the United Kingdom continues to focus on building its brand legacy through its leadership figures including famous names like the late Sir Winston Churchill, the late Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth II, Margaret Thatcher and Sir Richard Branson. With a focused heart, they have led the country and organisations towards triumphs, and have become global inspiring leaders.

There are also the literature intellects whose writings continue to inspire classrooms and lectures generations after generations.

Regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s preeminent dramatist, William Shakespeare continued to write plays even though he was never truly admired in his lifetime, but he received occasional praises. Another strong-willed writer, JK Rowling progressed from living on welfare to multi-millionaire status within five years. Determination and perseverance has earned the author of Harry Potter series a fortune estimated at £560 million as reported by Sunday Times Rich List 2008.

In sports, Barclays Premier Leagues are widely promoted to become the world’s most popular and most watched sporting league – broadcasting to over half a billion people in 202 countries (www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2325057/
Premier-League-is-world%27s-favourite-
league.html). Recently, the UK made a global mark when Lewis Hamilton became the youngest ever Formula One World Champion in 2008 (www.lewishamilton.com). Now, the United Kingdom is setting its focus towards London 2012 Olympics to deliver another memorable UK brand experience for the world.

While this sporting affair promotes tourism in the United Kingdom, the breathtaking atmosphere, picturesque mountains and buildings from the ancient times are among the greatest attractions for the tourists. Just imagine being taken back in time and visiting the birthplace of Winston Churchill at Blenheim Palace. Or maybe visiting the London Tower, Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, Edinburg Castle in Scotland or Gower Heritage Centre in Wales…

As a country that focuses on its rich heritage, tourism is one of the largest industries in the United Kingdom, accounting for 2.9% of United Kingdom Gross Value Added and worth approximately £85.6 billion in 2006. Focusing on promoting its historical values, cultures, traditions and architectures, the United Kingdom attracted 32.8 million tourists in 2007, who spent £16.0 billion in the United Kingdom (www.tourismtrade.org.uk).

Truly, this nation is branded with prominent figures, historical sites, marvelous creations, advanced technology, great food, quality products and more. The United Kingdom brand in itself carries a unique personality that relates the country to class and fame. The country and its people are well aware of the importance to remain loyal to the originality of the United Kingdom to add value to the world’s experience on its royal land.

For a developed country such as the United Kingdom, keeping the brand focused ensures that the nation continues to uphold its positive perceptions and reputations. All these years, the United Kingdom has truly been very competitive in economy, politic, culture, tradition and many other areas. The focus for the United Kingdom is maintaining a fresh, unique and practical differentiation to promote its status as a branded nation… because branded means wanted.

To build a focused brand, talk2us@peopalove.com or call +604-2288 696.