Blog Insights
The hardest thing about exhibiting at a channel event isn’t the build. It’s knowing how to present a joined-up brand message when the business behind them is anything but simple.
The hardest thing about exhibiting at a channel event isn’t the build. It’s knowing how to present a joined-up brand message when the business behind them is anything but simple. Sophie Hughes, Client Services Director, CI Group I’ve been delivering events in the IT channel for over a decade, and the question I hear most often from vendor marketing teams in the run […]
How AI is really impacting the EMEA IT Channel: Insights from the GTDC Summit
How AI is really impacting the EMEA IT Channel: Insights from the GTDC Summit By Richard Sapsed, Head of sami at CI Group Last week I attended the GTDC Summit EMEA 2026 in Noordwijk, one of the most important gatherings of senior technology distribution executives in the calendar. This year’s theme was Empowering the Digital Evolution, and if there was any doubt that AI […]
Enterprise AI Workshops & Training | sami AI Masterclasses
AI Masterclasses and Workshops | Build Confidence, Clarity and Capability with AI Artificial Intelligence is evolving rapidly. Every week new tools, models and capabilities emerge, transforming how organisations operate. For many businesses, the challenge is no longer whether to use AI — it’s how to adopt it effectively, safely and strategically. At CI Group, our SAMI AI masterclasses and workshops are designed to help organisations move beyond experimentation and build real capability with AI. Through practical sessions, expert guidance and real-world use cases, we help leadership teams and employees understand how AI can create measurable business value.
Five PR and marketing trends that will matter in 2026
By 2026, PR and marketing have moved far beyond being judged on activity alone. Audiences are savvier, attention is harder to earn, and a tougher economic climate means every pound invested must prove its value. Success now hinges on clear evidence of impact, influence and contribution to real business outcomes. At the same time, technology has matured […]
Six data security guardrails every brand using AI needs in place
Data Privacy Day is a timely reminder for brands that how they use data is as important as the campaigns it powers. With this year’s theme, Take Control of Your Data, many organisations are asking how to harness AI confidently without compromising the trust of customers. When getting it wrong can result in hefty fines, legal action and lasting reputational damage, responsible data use is essential – and brands using AI must understand […]
Growth, risks, and the next wave of innovation: What’s to come for the IT Channel in 2026?
The UK IT channel enters 2026 with real momentum. The market is set to grow by over 11% and, as ever, the indirect channel will be at the centre of how technology is bought, delivered and measured for business value. Alex Tatham, Non-Executive Director at CI Group, draws on 30+ years’ experience in the technology sector to explain why this year will not be […]
Contrast marketing: the bold tactic that will set HFSS brands apart in 2026
Following advertising restrictions that came into effect in January 2026, Britain’s FMCG sector stands at a crossroads. Brands promoting products high in salt, fat or sugar now face tighter restrictions on how and where they reach their audiences – and the challenge of new thinking, more daring creativity, and building smarter partnerships lies ahead. Below, we dive into one bold tactic that can help brands to stand out in […]
Looking back, moving forward: CI Group’s 2025 Wrapped
There’s nothing we love more than an excuse to shout about our brilliant team and the work they do. So, as 2025 draws to a close, we couldn’t resist reflecting on everything that went on at CI Group this year – because wow, what a year it’s been! The numbers are crunched – take a […]
AI, business strategy, and human-centric marketing: In conversation with Richard Sapsed, CI Group’s new Head of sami
CI Group is thrilled to announce the appointment of Richard Sapsed as the Head of sami, our new AI-focused business unit, designed to help clients achieve impactful business results through AI-enhanced services. Below, we sit down with Richard and dive into his industry expertise, his passion for AI-powered business strategy, and his big visions for […]
The key best practices for responsible and ethical AI use in marketing
Artificial intelligence has transformed marketing faster than most could have predicted. Within the past few years, adoption has surged across the industry brand communications, research, and content creation. Yet, while AI offers endless possibilities for innovation, our industry is currently at a stage of collective learning – with many still mastering best practices. Every business implementing AI has a […]