Word from the Times of London is that Richard Branson's advisers will begin selling the Virgin Group businesses via the public stock market, thereby operating like a private equity firm. Interestingly, much of this decision is based on the strength of the Virgin brand.

"Mr. Murphy [Stephen Murphy, Virgin’s chief executive and head of the investment group] will use the brand to help to launch new ventures and expand existing businesses, in a strategy of 'branded venture capitalism'," writes David Robertson in the article. We talk about the impact that a strong brand can have in drawing in consumers, but here's proof of the effect that brand strength can have on business and the bottom line.

A side note, in case you missed it, Virgin launched it's new low-fare Virgin America airline nearly two weeks ago. Coverage from PRWeek is here.