I love writing this blog and spend more time on it than most people do on their full-time jobs. It also costs me money, yet I earn virtually nothing from it.
Charging and sponsorship
While I receive many e-mails daily from PR companies, manufacturers and retailers seeking my support, I haven't been good at arranging compensation for my work. As a result I've been overwhelmed with work as brands sense a free lunch. That will now change: as from 1 September 2016 I will make a modest charge for features. Exceptions may be made for cash-poor start-ups who manufacture in Britain and for projects which I find particularly interesting and worthwhile.
I've come to this decision because brands have come to me recently with expectations that I spend time and money promoting them in return for little or nothing. I would rather that brands are aware of my position before they contact me in future, so that time is saved all round.
Often products are offered in return for blog features. While I appreciate this and, in some cases am happy to agree such an arrangement, there are only so many shirts, underpants and ties my cupboards can hold; meanwhile I incur blog costs, paid for out of my own pocket.
Advertising will continue to be an option for brands wanting to support the blog, but advertising is neither a requirement nor a way into being featured here.
Independence
As for my independence; readers can be assured that this will continue. I will bring significant news of products of interest whether I'm paid for it or not. Product reviews are accepted on the understanding that they will contain my unbiassed and independent opinion. Brands will be given the opportunity to respond in the event of an adverse review.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the brands who've supported the blog with paid collaborations or by paying for advertising; these contributions have been invaluable.
Click here for more about working with Grey Fox Blog.
Often products are offered in return for blog features. While I appreciate this and, in some cases am happy to agree such an arrangement, there are only so many shirts, underpants and ties my cupboards can hold; meanwhile I incur blog costs, paid for out of my own pocket.
Advertising will continue to be an option for brands wanting to support the blog, but advertising is neither a requirement nor a way into being featured here.
Independence
As for my independence; readers can be assured that this will continue. I will bring significant news of products of interest whether I'm paid for it or not. Product reviews are accepted on the understanding that they will contain my unbiassed and independent opinion. Brands will be given the opportunity to respond in the event of an adverse review.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the brands who've supported the blog with paid collaborations or by paying for advertising; these contributions have been invaluable.
Click here for more about working with Grey Fox Blog.
Contact me
Please e-mail greyfoxblog@gmail.com with any queries or comments.
EDIT: Addendum 5th September 21016
Since posting this piece I've received many e-mails of support, together with many very kind comments about this blog. This was totally unexpected and, although I'm writing to everyone individually to thank them, I wanted to put on record my gratitude for the support.
Please e-mail greyfoxblog@gmail.com with any queries or comments.
EDIT: Addendum 5th September 21016
Since posting this piece I've received many e-mails of support, together with many very kind comments about this blog. This was totally unexpected and, although I'm writing to everyone individually to thank them, I wanted to put on record my gratitude for the support.
An intelligent and very sensible decision. Keep up the inspiring work. I enjoy your blog along with your knowledge and views immensely.
ReplyDeleteBest Regards,
Heinz-Ulrich von Boffke
I visit in the hope that you will bring products or ideas to my attention. I guess that your demographic is old enough not to be led astray by one of your articles and it makes sense for you to get paid for generating interest for the brands. Best of luck with the more commercial approach.
ReplyDeleteOn another point: do you think you will cover grooming products? I read that more and more money is being spent by men on products yet I have no idea what works and what doesn't.
Regards
Thank you Heinz-Ullrich and Anonymous. I will be bringing interesting products and looks and ideas to readers' attention as normal, but I feel it's only fair for brands to pay a modest amount if they want a product brought to the attention of this blog's followers. I will only feature products that fit with the blog and have turned down commercial opportunities in the past where I feel products are not stylish enough or of poor quality.
ReplyDeleteGF
Big tick, both for the courage in making what appears to be a sound commercial, and for your transparency. I like what upu have done with the blog and it continues to be one of my most looked-for near-daily reads.
ReplyDeleteRegards, Tony
You're very good Tony and I appreciate your continuing support. I see that brands have a choice between journalists (who cost them nothing) and the bloggers like Grey Fox (who sometimes ask for payment, but are more focused) but it is really up to them to decide which is worth working with.
ReplyDeleteGF
I feel your regulars trust you enough to know that this very necessary decision will not substantially change the quality of the intelligence we get from your blog.
ReplyDeleteYour openness and integrity are rare and wholly laudable qualities in fashion and blogging.
Hi Grey Fox,
ReplyDeleteYou have my support here and I wish you well with this approach, I think it's the right thing to do. I have purchased goods from 3 firms you have brought to my attention on this blog.
Regards
David
Grey Fox,
ReplyDeleteAn understandable decision. One I think all your readers will agree with based upon the fact that we do not believe you could be "bought" as we know you to be a man of integrity.
Regards,
Snapper
Like the others I fully support your decision and if we expect professionalism; we and potential advertisers should expect that professionalism means you are not an amateur and should be paid. Thoroughly enjoy the blog and look forward to updates. Keep up the good work. Best wishes Matt
ReplyDelete