They hope to improve the image of the city.The City of Humboldt has hired the Avant Marketing Group, a full-service marketing agency, for a brand development project. Jennifer Brooks, the director of Communications and Community Development for the City, explained brand development is necessary to help the growing city create a consistent brand usage."The increasing exposure to the City's municipal brand requires a more professional approach," said Brooks. "Avant Marketing was selected for the project based on their unique combination of marketing strategy and municipal branding expertise."City Council chose Avant Marketing after putting a tender out for the services. They received three responses and felt Avant was the best company for the job, due to a number of factors including the fact that their bid was within the budget. Avant Marketing is a company out of St. Louis, Missouri. The City feels since they are not local, they might have new, fresh ideas for Humboldt."An outside set of eyes might be useful," said Coun. Phil Smith at the October 22 council meeting. The other council members agreed with Smith. "Maybe this is exactly what we need - a fresh set of eyes," said Coun. Aaron Behiel. A tagline will be created by an analysis of the City's existing materials. As well, Avant will provide guidelines for Humboldt's visual brand identity - including logo usage, corporate identity, potential new website design and marketing communications. "We are delighted to work with an agency that can bring an outside perspective and a professional approach to our identity for future branding and marketing efforts," said Brooks.
