From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Outlining a publicity strategy for a new model, including a catalogue foreword by journalist Capt. Gordon Aston.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 20\11\ Scan351 | |
| Date | 9th July 1929 | |
| X180. PN.{Mr Northey}2/WT9.7.29. X4440 X180. S/W. Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}..from PN.{Mr Northey} Copy to G.{Mr Griffiths - Chief Accountant / Mr Gnapp} Bhl As a matter of policy it has now been decided that we shall make as big a publicity splash as possible round about the Motor show time in respect of our new productions. Hitherto we have been afraid less our "Phantom" market would be too seriously damaged if the above course were taken, but in view of figures now available we shall feel justified in doing all we can at that time to bring the SS.{S. Smith} before the public in every possible advantageous way. We wish to have a foreword in our new catalogue which shall be attractively written, dealing with the characteristics of the SS.{S. Smith} from an owner-driver's point of view and for this purpose I propose to get Capt. Gordon Aston the wellknown journalist to spend a couple of days with me as soon as possible (under great secrecy) on one of the SS.{S. Smith} cars in order that he can get to know the car thoroughly well and be able to write, with my assistance - the sort of readable and appreciable article we require. It will be necessary that one of your experimental cars, best suited for this job be selected- one showing the many good features of the model, with as little over-run or other disturbances as possible; having selected the actual car it should be put in the hands of the coachbuilders in order that all rattles be taken out. The matter is extremely urgent - we want if possible for Aston's article to be written in not later than ten days' time. Will you please let me have your remarks on this matter. PN.{Mr Northey} | ||