Apparently we have an identity crisis in the Borders. '1576 Advertising', a Spin agency which has Glenmorangie and Jenners (The Edinburgh Department Store) amongst it clients has been commissioned to come up with a 'modern Borders Brand' to attract investors and to market the region to visitors. The current Logo is a Reiver head which may not adequately convey the Borders of 2004. The Vice Chairman of Scottish Enterprise Borders states (according to the
Berwickshire News) " There is still a belief that when people come over from Soutra (Southern Scotland's Golan Heights) into the Borders they will find us on horse and carts with sheep being driven along the roads" He claimed that Edinburgh folk had a very low awareness of what goes on in the Borders. But according to this gentleman creation of slogans (Borders: Scotland's favourite Short Break Destination? ) or Logos to replace the SBC's 'ubiquitous' Border Reiver' is not going to help our image problem. "This is not about new signs ....we need a common hymn sheet from which all local organisations can sing"
But others think change is necessary.So, the big question is: Could the Borders end up with a new logo and a new slogan? The Hutton Think Tank, at the fraction of the cost of employing 1576 Advertising is working on the case. One slogan being considered is
'The Borders-on the way there. And back' It has a nice ring to it and could be put to appropriate jingly musak. Or '
The Borders-land of empty roads; keep it that way' But that is a touch unfriendly. As for a logo How about a nice Smiley with a smart steel bonnet-thus combining the old Reiver historical connection with a 21st Century welcoming visage. Suggestions welcome. Self addressed envelope for replies please. HT2 is short of funds.
