Marketing students power eco-friendly business solutions

Second-year undergraduate Marketing students at Oxford Brookes University recently collaborated with the New Home Improvement Group (NHIG) on an Applied Marketing Consultancy Project, supporting the company’s strategic vision for sustainable growth.

Based in Oxfordshire, NHIG is recognised for its bespoke service and strong commitment to customer satisfaction. The company distinguishes itself in the home improvement sector by tailoring each build to the client’s precise specifications and offering a comprehensive business solution.

As part of the project, students conducted an in-depth environmental analysis of the UK home improvement market, identifying key trends and growth opportunities over the next five years. Particular focus was placed on the rising demand for eco-conscious solutions and the role of technological innovation within the industry.

Sarah Rogers, Lecturer in Marketing at Oxford Brookes, said: “The project involved detailed research into sustainable and technological opportunities and threats, alongside a thorough examination of customer demographics, revenue potential, and competitor positioning. Consultancy projects often take place in entrepreneurial settings, where conventional market research may be limited due to the scale or novelty of the business—this presents a real-world challenge for students.

“They were encouraged to apply their marketing knowledge throughout the module, working independently and in teams. Crucially, they were asked to go beyond the information supplied by the company, using a blend of primary and secondary research to identify gaps, gather new insights, and shape their own strategic recommendations.”

Aligned with NHIG’s ambition to strengthen its sustainable credentials, students explored areas for innovative product development—bringing together sustainability, smart technology, and design-led thinking—as potential avenues for future growth.

The top two consultancy reports and accompanying data analysis presentations were shared with Darren Field, CEO and Founder of the New Home Improvement Group.

Darren said: “Imagine having some of the brightest young minds in the City of Oxford advising you on your marketing strategy. That’s exactly where I found myself when we began working with Sarah Rogers and her marketing students at Oxford Brookes Business School. The buzz and enthusiasm were only matched by the quality of insight we received through the group presentations and consultancy reports.

“I’ve been building this company for 11 years, and I don’t think I’ve ever learned so much about the business in such a short space of time. We’re hopeful this collaboration can continue in the years ahead.”

Maisy Batiste, a BA Marketing Management student, said: “The NHIG consultancy project really tested our abilities as a group and helped us develop essential research and data analysis skills. We were given the freedom to explore market trends of our choice, which allowed us to grow creatively and gain confidence as aspiring marketeers.

“The project’s sustainable focus, along with guest lectures during the module, helped us apply the UN Sustainable Development Goals in a thoughtful and practical way. For example, we explored the use of mycelium insulation—an unconventional but innovative idea! It challenged us to think differently, solve problems creatively, and work effectively as a team.

“Working on a real-world brief with a live client has been incredibly valuable. It’s helped me grow not only as a marketeer but also as a more open-minded professional—something I’ve always appreciated about these hands-on learning opportunities.”

Learn more about Oxford Brookes undergraduate and postgraduate marketing courses.