A statement released this week by Pimento reveals their idea comes at a time when marketing agencies are facing increasing financial pressure as a result of the shift from retainers to project-based remuneration. It was inspired by the football loan scheme, which allows players to move to another club on a temporary basis.

Under the scheme, marketing agencies or in-house departments can offset staff costs during difficult times by seconding workers to another marketing agency needing extra resources. After a set period agreed between the two parties, the team or individual will return to their original marketing agency.

Commenting on the scheme, Pimento founder Nick Band said: “Reducing headcount can be an expensive business and a decision you may live to regret once business picks up. We’ve now created a way to lose the cost without losing the people.”

Transferred staff will still be legally employed by their original marketing agency and bound by their employment contracts.

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