Live Client for Marketing Research Undergrads. [Press Release]

In January, second year students of Marketing Information & Research were briefed by Dr Askari Townshend, Medical Director of SK:N Northampton.

SK:N is a high profile chain of 36 private skin clinics, specialising in laser hair removal and rejuvenation treatments.

Dr Townshend delivered a background briefing and outlined a research challenge for the students, inviting them to investigate attitudes towards rejuvenation treatments among SK:N’s target market.

“The most important element of the brief for me, was the trust that the client had in us to uphold the professionalism and image of his business during the research stage.” said Ben, a student on the module; “Following Market Research Society codes of conduct could not be more important - to ensure that we don't breach the clients trust, but also to uphold the professionalism of the University. I had my doubts as to whether externals would take a student led research project seriously, but these concerns were put to bed after Dr Townshend’s presentation.”

“There was so much information!” said another student, Jodie “Dr Townshend was very professional, but also relaxed as he spoke. I’m really looking forward to the research project – it’s very interesting. It will give us a chance to put our skills into action in a practical setting.”

Students on the module will be working on the research during the Spring term and the best reports will be fed back to SK:N with a view to using them to influence local marketing strategy.