Shell, BP and a host of other North Sea oil and gas producers are
considering joining forces to run an advertising campaign to lift their
battered public image.
Top officials from the UK Offshore Operators Association (UKOOA), whose
members comprise most offshore producers, including Texaco and Esso, are
understood to be talking to Delaney Fletcher Bozell and Saatchi &
Saatchi.
Briefings are being conducted as part of an overall image audit being
undertaken by the public relations company, Charles Barker.
Offshore producers face increasing dangers in their quest for oil and
gas, as dwindling reserves force them into deeper waters. The industry
is concerned the public seldom takes this into account, associating
North Sea oil rigs more with pollution than with the major contribution
they make to the UK economy.
Both BP and Shell have run their own image campaigns, but it is believed
they are now eager to share the cost with their industry cohorts.
