Hails & Fails – September 19th 2025
From sausage rolls to statement style, this week’s PR wins show the power of knowing your audience and pushing the brief. Greggs is back with another cult-worthy drop – swapping pastries for homeware. M&S turned heads with a bold new fashion direction that’s got everyone talking. And South Western Railway took a serious stand with a hard-hitting campaign against staff abuse. Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s had shoppers worried about a contaminated product.
HAILS
Greggs takes a bite out of interiors
Greggs is at it again. After conquering the fashion world with a clothing range that became a runaway streetwear hit, the bakery giant has now turned its hand to interiors. The new homeware range, from cushions to mugs, feels like a natural next step for a brand that just gets its customers. Fun, tongue-in-cheek, and guaranteed to fly off the shelves, it’s another piping hot PR win.
M&S shake up the high street
Forget frumpy, M&S has unveiled what’s being billed as its most daring fashion collection ever, and it’s got everyone talking. The bold autumn range is surprising from the retailer but warmly welcomed – proving that risk-taking pays off. Consumer press and tabloids alike have been full of praise, cementing the collection as a genuine style moment.
South Western Railway says enough is enough
In a powerful move, South Western Railway has launched a campaign tackling the abuse faced by its frontline staff. Using body-cam style footage, the creative doesn’t shy away from showing the grim reality, turning a spotlight on an issue that often goes unseen. It’s bold, important, and a smart way to use communications for positive change.
FAIL
Sainsbury’s hummus recall
Sainsbury’s is facing backlash after recalling two of its own-brand hummus products from shelves after potential contamination with E. coli. The products were found to pose serious health risks, including gastroenteritis and, in severe cases, kidney failure. The recall has sparked widespread concern, highlighting the critical importance of food safety and the potential consequences of lapses in quality control. It’s a sharp reminder that even trusted supermarkets can slip up and that food safety issues hit both headlines and consumer confidence.
