TalkTalk are one of the UK’s largest providers of wholesale connectivity, and are well-regarded within the channel. They offer businesses the flexibility, agility, and support they need to stand out from the competition and increase revenue. In November 2022, they joined forces with Virtual1, with an ambition to leverage the power of connectivity and utilise new technologies to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.
After two businesses merge it’s crucial to create an identity that both teams feel they belong to, and that resonates with their customers. They also need to bring their partners on the journey with them, maintaining and strengthening customer loyalty and relationships.
Partner programmes – and partner marketing more broadly – need to keep partners at the centre of everything. This was especially important for this project, to reassure partners that they were still in safe hands and that the programme would continue delivering value for them.
Our client had an existing partner programme but it was now out of date visually. We delivered a creative direction, messaging, and new logo that reflected the TalkTalk brand but also enabled the partner programme to stand out in its own right.
The project not only involved a business-critical launch and top-quality deliverables, we also had to turn it round quickly. From an initial briefing in April we wrapped up the first phase by June.
Inspired by the programme’s three progress tiers, we designed an eye-catching logo with three rings. Then we rolled this out across the Partner Programme imagery, using the rings to highlight connectedness and collaboration, and to play on the idea of being at the heart of a special inner circle. We pulled up a vibrant green colour from TalkTalk’s assets that felt distinct yet on-brand.
Highlighting collaboration
Training videos
We created email banners, a landing page, a programme guide, sales aids, and a dynamic launch video they could showcase at events or on their social media. To help make their partner portal more user-friendly, we also created, animated, edited, and tested a series of training videos with voiceovers.
Thanks to our expertise in 3D digital design we also rebuilt a scene and added a new illustration to their collection. When their team needed support developing names for the tiers, we stepped in to help, defining the different levels in the programme in a way that encouraged them to participate and keep levelling up.
3D illustration
Our clients were delighted with our work, and they now have a strong visual identity and assets they can deploy in the future. Their partners have a clear, comprehensive programme that supports them to grow their revenue, accelerate time-to-market, and keep their end customers happy. And it’s all unified with the new brand identity, ensuring cohesion and credibility.
I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the phenomenal team at F6, who played a crucial role in the launch of our new Partner Programme. Their professionalism, talent, and dedication to delivering excellence is truly impressive.
We came to F6 at a significant time for our business, following the merger of TalkTalk Wholesale Services and Virtual1. Our aim was not just to align our branding but also to establish the Partner Programme as a distinct entity. The team at F6 demonstrated remarkable creativity, strategic insight, and an unwavering commitment to bringing our vision to life.
Despite the urgency of the project, F6 wrapped up the initial phase within a tight timeframe, and delivered a robust visual identity and a suite of assets that positions us for continued success in the future.
Senior Marketing Manager, TalkTalk Wholesale Services