Downtown in Business has announced a new strategic partnership with Liverpool creative agency Poke Marketing, marking another significant milestone in DIB’s continued growth and rising profile within the UK business, events and communications sector.
The partnership follows more than two years of collaboration between the two organisations, during which Poke has supported a range of major campaigns, events and marketing initiatives for Downtown in Business, while also becoming an increasingly recognised voice within conversations shaping business, culture and place across the UK.
Since joining Downtown In Business in 2024, Poke has expanded its visibility nationally through high-profile events, strategic networking opportunities and industry recognition, helping position the agency among a growing community of influential business leaders, policymakers and key organisations.
The new agreement will see Poke become a Strategic Partner of Downtown in Business, supporting the delivery of DIB’s evolving brand, digital platform and wider communications strategy.
For Downtown in Business, the partnership reflects a broader ambition; to continue working with ambitious, innovative organisations that are helping shape conversations around cities, sectors and economic growth across the UK.
Founded in 2020 by Andrew Binns and Nicola Docking, Poke Marketing has rapidly built a reputation for combining creative thinking, marketing innovation and strategic insight across campaigns for local, regional and national organisations.
Downtown in Business says its relationship with Poke has played an important role in supporting the organisation’s evolving communications and creative ambitions.
Andrew Binns, Co-Founder of Poke Marketing, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of how far Poke has come over the last few years. What started as an ambitious independent agency has evolved into a business that is now contributing to wider conversations around creativity, marketing, business and place. A huge part of that journey has been the relationships we’ve built through Downtown in Business. The support, opportunities and connections that come through the DIB network have been genuinely valuable to us as an agency. What makes Downtown unique is its members. Being surrounded by ambitious businesses, leaders and organisations who care about growth, innovation and the future of cities creates an environment that naturally pushes you forward. This partnership feels like a natural next step for both organisations and we’re excited about what we can build together moving forward.”
Frank McKenna, Chief Executive of Downtown in Business, added:
“Poke has become an important creative partner for Downtown over the last two years, bringing energy, strategic thinking and strong creative delivery to a number of our projects. Their growth reflects the strength of the region’s creative sector, and we’re delighted to welcome them as a Strategic Partner as we continue expanding our own ambitions.”
The partnership will create further opportunities for Downtown in Business and Poke to collaborate on campaigns and initiatives across the country, strengthen relationships with senior business leaders and continue supporting conversations around investment, regeneration and economic growth.
The announcement comes as Downtown in Business continues to expand its national profile, events programme and strategic partnerships across the UK.
