Zen Internet: I've Moved On

Key Points

Client: Zen Internet
Campaign: "I've Moved On" Hyper-Local TV Campaign
Collaborator: Dawn Creative
Job Type: TV Commercial Production
Locations: Manchester, Birmingham, and Northern England
Time Frame: Post-COVID Era
Recognition: Nominated for Prolific North Award

The Challenge

After COVID-19 reshaped the way people worked, learned, and lived, one thing became clear: broadband wasn’t just a utility anymore—it was a lifeline. As many realized their internet couldn’t keep up with new demands, Zen Internet wanted to step in with a message: “We deliver better.”

Armed with data proving their service outperformed competitors in key areas, Zen aimed to launch a highly targeted TV campaign that spoke directly to audiences in Manchester, Birmingham, and the North overall. The challenge? Making a meaningful connection while staying within a tight production budget.

The Plan

We teamed up with Dawn Creative to bring Zen’s vision to life, collaborating closely to craft a campaign that resonated with local audiences. The “I’ve Moved On” campaign used humour to break through: scripts played on the emotional language of romantic breakups before revealing the twist—customers were “moving on” from their old broadband provider.

Our Key Contributions:

• Script Co-Creation: Working alongside Dawn, we developed witty, engaging scripts that delivered the campaign’s message with humour and clarity.
• Casting Expertise: We managed casting to find actors who not only fit the part but also brought authenticity, with accents and comedic timing that felt perfectly local.
• Location Strategy: To maximise the budget, we scouted and secured versatile locations that allowed us to shoot multiple setups efficiently.
• Production Efficiency: Over two packed days, we filmed seven variations of the campaign across three locations. This ensured each ad was tailored to specific audience segments while keeping costs under control.

The campaign was designed for Sky AdSmart, enabling hyper-local targeting that ensured Zen’s message reached the right people in the right places.

The Results

The “I’ve Moved On” campaign didn’t just deliver—it became a standout success. Nominated for a Prolific North Award, it struck a chord with audiences and ran for an impressive three years, demonstrating its long-term impact and relevance.

The ads’ humour and relatability connected deeply with viewers, helping Zen establish itself as a broadband provider that truly understood local needs.

Dave, Creative Director at Dawn Creative, reflected on the collaboration:
"Eight Engines are very clear with their communications. They keep their promises and deliver on time, every time. They go the extra mile and support you and your client along the way. They are committed, honest, and have a genuine approach. They were helpful, supportive, and dedicated to high standards."

Read the full review here.