Bizzcom Solutions, a fast-growing integrated Public Relations and Strategic Communications agency, has announced a significant global expansion, now offering PR services across 20+ countries including the UAE, UK, USA, Singapore, Canada, Australia, Germany, South Africa, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. This expansion marks a major milestone in the company’s mission to deliver borderless brand communication solutions to businesses worldwide.Over the past year, Bizzcom Solutions has onboarded a diverse portfolio of international clients in sectors such as technology, hospitality, healthcare, education, fintech, real estate, lifestyle, and sustainability. The agency now collaborates with global media networks, influencers, industry publications, and regional PR partners to offer seamless cross-country media outreach.Speaking on this global expansion, Praveen Tiwari, Founder of Bizzcom Solutions, said:“This expansion reflects our vision of building a truly global PR ecosystem powered by innovation, storytelling, and meaningful brand connections. We are not just growing in numbers but in capability, creativity, and global influence. Our goal is to help Indian brands go global and global brands connect deeply with Indian and Asian markets. This is just the beginning of a much larger journey.”With operations now spanning North America, Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia, Bizzcom Solutions is strengthening its international communications infrastructure through:Global Media Relations & Cross-Border PR CampaignsCEO Branding, Thought Leadership & Corporate ReputationCrisis Communication & Reputation ManagementDigital PR, Online Visibility & Media StrategyInvestor Relations & Startup Brand CommunicationThe agency is also launching a Global PR Alliance Program that connects businesses with local media networks and journalists in different countries, enabling faster and more targeted global visibility. This initiative will support startups and enterprises planning market entry or brand expansion in new regions."We are building a PR ecosystem where geography is no longer a barrier," added Tiwari. "With our strong media relationships and global partnerships, we aim to create brand impact that travels across borders."

Illumination PR has expanded its service offerings with the launch of DR Media Group, a new division dedicated to healthcare communications. The move marks the agency’s formal entry into the medical and wellness space, building on its longstanding success with clients in the aesthetics and healthcare sectors.Headquartered in Rye Brook, New York, Illumination PR has built a strong reputation over the past eight years representing lifestyle brands, influencers, and high-profile clients. The introduction of DR Media Group establishes a specialized focus on medical professionals, including doctors, clinics, and wellness brands, offering tailored PR strategies that combine industry compliance with creative storytelling.The new division aims to enhance visibility, credibility, and patient trust for healthcare clients through strategic media relations, digital reputation management, and business development initiatives. Leveraging Illumination PR’s expertise in media outreach and brand building, DR Media Group will provide end-to-end communication support for practices across sectors such as plastic surgery, dermatology, and medical aesthetics.DR Media Group will also build on Illumination PR’s record of securing placements in leading publications including Vogue, Forbes, Elle, and People Magazine, extending these opportunities to healthcare professionals seeking stronger brand recognition and market differentiation.The launch of DR Media Group signifies Illumination PR’s continued evolution, bridging its established influence in lifestyle storytelling with the growing demand for specialized, compliant, and effective communication in the healthcare industry.

Only 27% of GCC marcomms professionals say leadership teams in their organisations or divisions have equal or near-equal male-female representation, defined as 40-60% in favour of any gender. The vast majority (56%) have indicated low representation, while only 17% cited high representation. When it comes to the very top positions, 36% said a woman held the most senior role in their marcomms organisation or division, with a title of CEO, CMO, MD, or founder. This is up from 30% in 2024.Results were shared by The Marketing Society and Weber Shandwick, an Official Partner of Think Equal, the industry initiative that aims to accelerate gender equality in leadership across the marcomms industry in the GCC. The data captured insights from both men and women in regional marketing communications functions and conveys a distinct opportunity to strengthen gender balance at the top. Various studies have linked diverse leadership teams to improved performance and profitability.In terms of optimism levels, 68% of respondents say they are optimistic about future progress in gender equality in leadership roles within the GCC marcomms sector. The majority (56%) say they believe that progress has happened and is happening based on what they see, hear, and experience. Just over a quarter (28%) say the right moves in the right direction have started, however 16% feel no meaningful progress has been achieved.It’s noteworthy that this year’s survey recorded a drop in the number of respondents who said their company provides a female-focused training and development programme, echoing rollbacks globally in DEI initiatives. In contrast, The Marketing Society, TikTok and Weber Shandwick MENAT have launched The Leadership Accelerator, a six-month programme in 2026 for 12 exceptional female marcomms leaders in the UAE, who will benefit from masterclasses and mentorship. “Without question, being surrounded by views and perspectives that are different from our own, are incredibly valuable. They give us extra context, and new ways to look at things. And often, these different views come from women, making decision-making far more vigorous. The data from this survey indicates a need for more consistent, industry-wide efforts to create impactful change – not just for women, but also for the organisations that stand to benefit from this positive development,” said Ziad Hasbani, Regional CEO of Weber Shandwick MENAT.Survey results were shared by Alasdair Hall-Jones, Global Director of The Marketing Society and Katie Plant, Director at Weber Shandwick MENAT at a mixed-gender event titled ‘From Soft Power to Strategic Power’. The agenda also included an insightful conversation with advice, perspectives and tips for driving strategic power, based on the personal experiences shared by Suad Merchant, CMO, GEMS Education, Noreen Nasralla, SVP Marketing Strategy & Branding, Alef Group and Ghaleb Zeidan, Regional Managing Director, Weber Shandwick MENAT. Mariaan Valero, Head of Marketing & Content, Weber Shandwick MENAT moderated the session.A workshop and audience engagement led to the collective identification of the top 3 skills women need to focus on to help drive their strategic power: those being confident communication, persuasive influence, and negotiation. Other skills that ranked high were senior stakeholder management, business and commercial acumen, and relationship building and networking.The event’s workshop feedback and results from the survey will be used and developed by the Think Equal Working Committee, a group of industry professionals from both brands and agencies.

Adgcraft, one of India’s most trusted PR agencies, has announced the launch of its new office in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This strategic move towards expansion will mark a major achievement in the agency’s PR journey. The Bengaluru office will play a crucial role in strengthening Adgcraft’s verticals - Adgcraft Communications, Adgcraft AI, and Adgcraft Global. Adgcraft is aligning with its long-term goal of building a strong manpower of 25+ ideal members and a future-ready workforce in the new office by 2026 under the mentorship of top-industry veterans. With this expansion, Adgcraft underscores its commitment to delivering innovative and impactful PR solutions tailored for India’s fast-evolving communication landscape.The new office at Awfis, Samrah Plaza, St Mark's Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56000, is set to focus on serving startups, corporates, tech-corporates, and companies in the field of Artificial Intelligence, positioning itself in the heart of India’s innovation and technological hub with thousands of IT companies and global tech giants. Adgcraft will leverage its deep expertise and client-first approach for its clients in achieving public relations and communication goals. The company has a track record in designing communication strategies and handling diverse PR mandates, focusing on the client’s demands and needs, making it a trusted partner for businesses seeking to enhance their reputation, visibility, and engagement in India and globally. With this expansion to the tech hub, the company will also drive key operations in social media, performance marketing, video production, and event management.Abhinay Kumar Singh, Managing Director of Adgcraft, being passionate and enthusiastic about this new launch, said, “We are excited to open our new office in Bengaluru, the Tech Capital of India, as it is India’s biggest startup and technology hub. Expanding our roots there will strengthen Adgcraft’s presence. Being a PR and Communications service provider, we are working with more than 200 brands and companies. With our expansion, our vision is to empower brands by combining creativity with strategy, and this launch takes us one step closer to achieving that goal, so we are excited to work even harder and smarter to continue with the expansion process.”Over the years, Adgcraft has established itself as one of the most trusted names in the Public Relations industry, working with clients across sectors, including BFSI, lifestyle, hospitality, corporate, and emerging tech. The agency has successfully collaborated with international clients from the USA, South Korea, and other global markets, while also providing strategic communication support to numerous Indian startups. Its achievements in brand building, reputation management, and crisis communications highlight its ability to deliver results-driven PR strategies and campaigns.Guided by its vision to be a one-stop solution provider for comprehensive PR and brand communications, Adgcraft operates with the motto of “Your story is your strength, and communication is ours.” 

Varsha Chainani, a communications veteran with nearly four decades of experience, has launched The Light Wellness Company following her departure from Vedanta Group.The new venture focuses on empowering leaders and professionals to achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose during periods of personal and professional transition. It combines Chainani’s expertise as a communicator, coach, and wellness practitioner to provide holistic guidance and support, aiming to foster harmony and transformation in both work and life.Throughout her career, Chainani has held senior roles at leading organizations including Mahindra Group, Adani, Abbott Laboratories, IBM, and others, building extensive experience in strategic communications and leadership development.

Media Corridors, a communications and public relations consultancy, has introduced a refreshed brand identity reflecting the agency’s evolution and forward-looking vision.The updated branding includes a new logo that incorporates a speech-bubble motif, with the word “Media” in bright blue and “Corridors” in golden-yellow. The new identity has also been implemented across the agency’s website, mediacorridors.com.The rebrand emphasizes the agency’s focus on innovation, strategy, and helping clients enhance visibility and recognition. The logo, color scheme, and website design collectively convey energy, clarity, and approachability while representing the agency’s purpose of turning stories into meaningful impact.

DPDzero, a leading debt collections company redefining the future of debt resolution in India, has appointed The Media Manifest (TMM) as its strategic public relations partner to drive impactful media communications. Through this collaboration, DPDzero aims to strengthen its brand visibility, build thought leadership, and drive meaningful conversations around AI innovation and trust in the collections ecosystem.The company recently raised $7M in a Series A funding round, fuelling its growth journey as it scales operations and doubles down on building a fair, transparent, and technology-led approach to collections.As India’s debt collections landscape evolves with technology-led interventions and regulatory focus on fair practices, DPDzero has been at the forefront of offering ethical, data-driven, and customer-friendly collection solutions to financial institutions and businesses. Partnering with The Media Manifest will help amplify DPDzero’s voice in the industry and engage effectively with stakeholders across financial services, fintech, and policy ecosystems.Nupur Maheswari, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, said: “We are thrilled to partner with DPDzero in their journey of transforming the collections space in India. Debt collection is often viewed through a difficult lens, and DPDzero is challenging that perception by building a humane, AI-enabled, and transparent approach. Our role will be to strategically position DPDzero’s narrative and ensure their pioneering work gets the visibility it deserves.”The partnership reflects DPDzero’s commitment to reinforcing its leadership in the debt collections industry while ensuring its mission of ethical collections resonates with the wider ecosystem.

In this role, she managed communications for brands like Ampere and Greaves 3W, and led strategic messaging and IPO communication efforts for the company's upcoming listing.Prior to this, she served as Deputy General Manager at Greaves Cotton Ltd., overseeing internal and external communications, social media, website, intranet, and investor relations.Before joining Greaves, Trupti spent over a decade at MSL India and Six Degrees BCW, where she led communications for clients across sectors like automotive, technology, and startups. Her recent posts on LinkedIn reflect a sense of pride and gratitude for her journey, including a post titled "Legacy Matters" acknowledging her time at Greaves Cotton. 

Once considered a side-channel for hobbyists and storytellers, podcasts have now entered the mainstream of corporate strategy. With India’s young, mobile-first population driving a surge in audio consumption, organizations are recognizing the format’s ability to blend accessibility with authenticity.On International Podcast Day today, industry leaders are highlighting how podcasts have evolved from niche passion projects into powerful corporate communication tools. For businesses navigating increasingly complex audiences and communication channels, podcasts are fast becoming an essential medium for leadership branding, internal alignment, and client engagement.In an era where traditional mass media struggles to match the pace of personalized digital content, podcasts offer leaders a unique platform to speak directly and meaningfully to stakeholders.Dr. Sandeep Dadia, CEO and Country Head at Lockton India, notes that the medium’s rise has been driven by convenience and authenticity. “This shift is due to the growing demand for on-the-go content. People are busy, and any form of content that is easy to consume from the audience’s point of view is bound to be in demand.” he says.For Rathin Lahiri, Head – Marketing & CSR at SBI General Insurance, India’s young demographic and tech adoption have fueled this shift. “The mobile phone is almost an extension of our body. In this landscape, podcasts strike the perfect balance of being formal yet candid, making them impactful for leaders and audiences alike”.Beyond ease of consumption, the format offers leaders a rare opportunity to go beyond polished messaging. With authenticity, depth, and flexibility at their core, podcasts are emerging as a vital channel for corporate leaders to humanize communication, strengthen personal brands, and build stronger connections with stakeholders. “Unlike short-form content, podcasts allow for authentic storytelling and candid conversations. Leaders can showcase not just expertise, but also personality, values, and vision” adds Dadia.Podcasts are also proving particularly effective in simplifying complex industries. “In insurance, where complexity often hinders engagement, podcasts can unpack jargon, showcase innovation, and spotlight real customer stories,” says Neha Plasterwala, Head of Marketing and Communications, Lockton India. “They’re not just a tool for reach, but a platform for relevance, reputation, and relationship-building”Looking ahead, experts believe the next wave of corporate podcasting will be defined by interactivity and personalization. Dadia points out that the future lies in building tighter communities through formats that encourage dialogue and participation, moving beyond one-way conversations. Lahiri adds that with AI and analytics becoming more advanced, podcasts will evolve into shorter, sharper formats tailored to specific audience segments and listening patterns. Together, these shifts signal a future where podcasts serve not only as channels of thought leadership but also as dynamic platforms for engagement, trust-building, and long-term relationship manage

Verizon Communications Inc., a major U.S. telecommunications provider, reported strong second-quarter 2025 results, leading to upward revisions in adjusted EBITDA, EPS, and free cash flow guidance.The company announced a 1.8% dividend increase to $0.69 per share, marking 19 consecutive years of dividend growth, with a yield of 6.3% and a payout ratio of approximately 63%.Verizon is advancing wireless technology through the Industry 6G Alliance with partners including Ericsson, Samsung, Nokia, Meta, and Qualcomm, while its 5G Ultra Wideband network continues to expand. The network has been deployed in mission-critical applications, including emergency communications for the Tampa Police Department.In September 2025, Verizon became the first carrier to offer AI-powered Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, integrating wearable technology with its network ecosystem.The company is relocating its headquarters to PENN 2 in Midtown Manhattan, with completion expected by 2026.Verizon combines financial stability, dividend growth, and technology-led initiatives, maintaining its position as a leading U.S. telecom provider.

Tata Communications has secured a multi-crore project from the Ministry of Finance to modernize the digital infrastructure of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) benches across India.The project includes a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning network fabric, IoT, cloud services, SD-WAN, video conferencing, and advanced security, with unified management across all domains. The upgraded infrastructure aims to create a secure, scalable, and intelligent digital ecosystem to support the tribunal’s operations.The modernization will enable seamless access for all GSTAT benches, streamline end-to-end operations, and strengthen data security. Advanced technologies such as predictive analytics and automation tools will enhance operational efficiency and provide a simplified, user-friendly experience for stakeholders.This initiative positions Tata Communications as a key technology partner for mission-critical national projects, supporting India’s ongoing efforts to digitize and optimize its taxation infrastructure.

FINN Partners has introduced AIristotle™, a proprietary AI platform designed to help communications teams align strategies with the algorithms that determine content visibility. The platform provides data-driven insights into narratives and language that are most effective in the digital ecosystem.AIristotle integrates proprietary algorithms with LLM analysis and multiple audience data sources, creating an additional intelligence layer for storytelling. By analyzing online conversations, media coverage, and narrative drivers, it identifies the messaging most likely to gain traction or mitigate the spread of harmful narratives.The platform is being integrated into FINN Partners’ communications and marketing services, supporting proactive campaigns, crisis management, and reputation protection. It builds on the agency’s broader suite of innovations, including Canary for Crisis, an AI-powered training platform, and C3, a crisis communications app.Developed in-house within the Media Forensics service, AIristotle has already been applied in client projects and is now available for global use, with a full rollout and training scheduled for October.

The global Public Network Communication Equipment market within the Information Technology and Telecom sector is expected to reach USD 68.3 billion by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 6.2% during 2025–2031. The market is estimated to be valued at USD 42.5 billion in 2024, supported by growing demand for advanced communication infrastructure and continuous innovation in IT and telecom applications.Market Growth OverviewThe Public Network Communication Equipment market is expanding rapidly due to the rising need for reliable communication networks across industries such as telecommunications, government, transportation, and emergency services. Adoption of 5G, IoT, and cloud-based technologies is improving performance, efficiency, and coverage. Urbanization and smart city initiatives are also increasing the requirement for high-speed connectivity and real-time data exchange, driving the demand for scalable and secure network solutions.Regional InsightsAsia-Pacific: Positioned as the fastest-growing region, supported by rapid digital transformation, expanding telecom infrastructure, and government-led investments.North America: Maintains a leading share with advanced technological adoption and robust communication system deployment.Europe: Shows steady growth, driven by network modernization efforts and regulatory compliance requirements.Rest of the World (Latin America, Middle East & Africa): Exhibits moderate growth fueled by infrastructure expansion, industrial development, and rising consumer demand.Key Growth DriversTechnological Advancements: Continuous innovation in AI, IoT, analytics, and automation is enhancing product efficiency and enabling new applications.Cross-Industry Adoption: Increasing usage across automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, telecom, and manufacturing sectors ensures broad market relevance.Government Support: Policies promoting digital infrastructure, smart cities, and Industry 4.0 are accelerating adoption.R&D and Investments: Growing private and public investments in research, along with mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations, are strengthening innovation and market competitiveness.Market SegmentationBy Network Infrastructure EquipmentRoutersSwitchesGatewaysAccess PointsRepeatersBy Communication Transmission EquipmentOptical Fiber EquipmentMicrowave EquipmentSatellite Communication EquipmentRadio Communication EquipmentNetwork Interface CardsBy Network Security EquipmentFirewallsIntrusion Detection SystemsVPN DevicesSecure RoutersEndpoint Security DevicesLeading CompaniesCisco SystemsJuniper NetworksHuawei TechnologiesNokia CorporationArista NetworksZTE CorporationExtreme NetworksPalo Alto NetworksMikrotikTP-Link TechnologiesDell TechnologiesFuture OutlookThe market is set for consistent expansion as industries worldwide continue to modernize communication infrastructure and adopt advanced technologies. Rising data traffic, broadband connectivity needs, and smart infrastructure projects will remain core growth factors through 2031.

Wizikey, a global AI media intelligence platform, has officially unveiled “Ask Wizikey,” the world’s first user-grade integration based on MCP (Model Context Protocol). Made for marketing and communications professionals, Ask Wizikey allows CMOs, marketing heads, and communications leaders to integrate real-time media intelligence directly into AI assistants of their choice - be it Claude, Windsurf or CursorPro (ChatGPT to follow soon, once OpenAI enables MCP integration). The benefit? It makes strategic decision-making faster and data-driven with exact accuracy, all based on data gathered via Wizikey. Marketing and communications struggle with unverified data; “Ask Wizikey” solves this by delivering trusted, verified information in seconds, so that teams can act with confidence. It empowers users to access information across online news, print, and social media platforms to get clear, fact-based insights, helping them achieve their marketing goals with greater accuracy, on improved timelines.“Ask Wizikey” also helps marketers and communications heads prepare interactive dashboards, support content strategy, analyse sentiment, narratives and themes across news, and generate interactive reports.Wizikey first unveiled “Ask Wizikey” at B2B Marketing Unboxed 2025, India’s first community-led B2B marketing event. Among the 50+ companies that attended the event, 30+ signalled interest by registering on the wait list, underscoring the product’s immediate market impact.Aakriti Bhargava, Co-Founder, Wizikey, said, “We’ve built the world’s first MCP-powered purpose-built AI platform for MarTech and Comms, linking verified, source-linked intelligence straight into your AI tools. Teams move from trawling links to decisive action in minutes: faster research, quicker crisis resolution, smarter calls. It’s the operating layer for PR and MarTech in the AI era.”Anshul Sushil, co-founder, Wizikey, added, “Ask Wizikey’ is our MCP-powered operating layer - built in India, for the world. With 95% accuracy in media matching and insights, coverage analysis down from hours to minutes, and reporting compressed to 99%. We surface source-linked, data driven answers, reducing up to 85% of the strategic headspace lost to manual tasks.”“Ask Wizikey is exactly the step-change the industry needs,” said Abhinna Khare, CMO, Nucleus Software. “We require board-ready, source-linked reports to showcase the topline KPIs in boardrooms. By pairing verified data with operational guardrails, ‘Ask Wizikey’ makes AI a provable competitive edge.”AVAILABILITY AND EARLY ACCESSOrganisations seeking early access can join the waitlist at wizikey.com/mcp. Beta participants receive priority onboarding, exclusive training sessions, and direct access to Wizikey's strategic consultation team. Full commercial release across all supported platforms is planned for Q4 2025.

In an era where consumers are fatigued by sponsored noise and brands are scrutinized for every partnership, SPAG, a FINN Partners company, has unveiled FINNFluence — a next-generation influencer marketing solution designed to bring trust, compliance, and measurable impact back to the heart of influencer marketing.With the influencer economy in India projected at ?3,500 crore in 2025, growing at rate of 25% , marketers face a dual challenge: navigating explosive growth while combating influencer fraud, regulatory tightening, and consumer demand for authenticity. FINNFluence answers this challenge by moving beyond superficial likes and follower counts to what matters most to today’s CMOs — reputation, relevance, and return on investment.Built on SPAG’s proprietary SCORE model — Signal, Compliance, Overlap, Relevance, and Engagement — FINNFluence delivers a trust-first, ROI-driven framework that quantifies credibility, safeguards brand reputation, and ensures cultural resonance. Each collaboration is designed to be both compliance-forward (aligned with ASCI and FTC guidelines) and performance-led, where impact-driven KPIs replace vanity metrics.“Influence without trust is just noise. FINNFluence embeds credibility at the very core of influencer marketing. By marrying data intelligence with cultural insight, we are equipping brands to deliver impact that is measurable, meaningful, and market-ready. This is not influencer marketing as usual — it’s influence evolved,” said Aman Gupta, Managing Partner, SPAG FINN Partners.Why FINNFluence Matters for Today’s Marketers· Trust as the new currency: In an era of consumer skepticism, FINNFluence ensures every partnership is rooted in credibility and authenticity.· Compliance as a growth driver: With tightening regulations, brands need influencer models that reduce risk while scaling across diverse markets.· Data as a decision engine: Through advanced scoring and analytics, FINNFluence provides marketers with the insight-rich reporting they need to prove ROI to the boardroom.· Cultural relevance as a differentiator: From health and tech to consumer, finance, travel, and sustainability, FINNFluence helps brands resonate in sectors where values and purpose shape consumer decisions.“Audiences today don’t just buy products; they buy into values. They are discerning, skeptical, and demand authenticity. FINNFluence is designed for this new reality — building creator ecosystems that align with purpose and brand safety, while ensuring every rupee spent delivers long-term equity,” said Shivani Gupta, Managing Partner, SPAG FINN Partners.From Paid Buzz to Earned TrustUnlike conventional models chasing virality, FINNFluence is sector-agnostic yet precision-focused. Whether for health, technology, consumer, or sustainability brands, it creates long-term brand-safe partnerships that move influence from transactional to transformational.As digital ecosystems in Asia-Pacific evolve, FINNFluence is designed for scalability across diverse cultural and regulatory environments — giving global marketers a model that’s built for impact, integrity, and influence at scale.

Kristal Howard, former Kroger executive, has launched her own communications consultancy, The Howard Method. The firm is focused on helping food and wellness brands grow through modern public relations and storytelling.One of the consultancy’s first clients is Kroger’s Houston region, marking a continued association with the company where Howard spent over 12 years of her career. Alongside Kroger, The Howard Method is also working with other established and emerging brands in the food and wellness space.Howard’s move into independent consulting follows her career as an award-winning PR executive and her extensive experience at Kroger, a Fortune 20 company. With the launch of The Howard Method, she aims to apply her expertise in building brand visibility and communications strategies to support a diverse range of clients.The consultancy is currently open for new collaborations with brands seeking PR support, brand storytelling, and communications guidance.

Communications veteran Varghese M. Thomas has launched The VMT Consultancy, introducing a subscription-based learning platform and an AI-powered assistant to address the evolving needs of the communications industry.The consultancy’s first offering is a 40-episode podcast series, designed as a learning management system (LMS) that blends conceptual knowledge with practical tools. The series aims to enhance communication skills, focusing on internal and external messaging as well as complex scenario management.In parallel, the firm has unveiled the VMT Tech Bot, an AI-driven assistant built to support communication leaders in areas such as content creation, campaign management, narrative development, case study design, and rapid crisis handling. Future subscription-based upgrades will extend the bot’s capabilities to include advanced analytics, influencer mapping, and customized strategic support.By combining structured learning resources with AI-enabled tools, The VMT Consultancy seeks to help professionals adapt to an industry being reshaped by digital transformation and technological innovation.

Plum, India’s leading employee health benefits platform, has appointed The Mavericks India, India’s leading integrated marketing communications agency, as its strategic communications partner. Plum operates at the intersection of technology, healthcare, and benefits innovation, offering modern, accessible, and comprehensive protection plans for startups, SMBs, and enterprises. While rooted in health benefits, the platform has evolved into a holistic healthcare ecosystem, bringing together insurance, wellness, and preventive care, and now expanding into personal and business insurance, ensuring seamless protection for both organisations and individuals.The Mavericks India will drive strategic communications for Plum across key touchpoints, with a strong focus on thought leadership, stakeholder visibility, corporate reputation, and brand storytelling. The partnership aims to bolster Plum’s narrative in the fast-evolving healthcare and employee benefits space while also reinforcing its expansion into business and personal insurance. Through this collaboration, The Mavericks will help amplify Plum’s mission of making quality health protection—spanning preventive healthcare, group benefits, and individual coverage—a fundamental workplace right.Shreyas Achar, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Plum Benefits said, “At Plum, we are deeply invested in changing the way India views employee wellbeing. With The Mavericks India as our strategic communications partner, we are excited to craft a narrative that aligns with our purpose, resonates with our audience, and champions the role of health security in today’s workplaces. We look forward to this collaboration elevating our voice in the industry and beyond.”On winning the mandate, Chetan Mahajan, Co-founder and CEO, The Mavericks India, added, “Plum is a trailblazer in the insurtech and employee benefits ecosystem, disrupting traditional models with empathy, technology, and innovation at its core. We are honoured to partner with a brand that is creating systemic change for millions of employees and employers. Our goal will be to shape authentic, insight-led communications that strengthen Plum’s leadership and connect deeply with its stakeholders.”

After an intensive jury process, 184 entries have been shortlisted for the 14th edition of SMARTIES India with careful screening and scoring by 100+ screening jury and 50+ jurors to decide the final wins. This year’s shortlist reflects the evolving face of marketing in India, capturing breakthrough work across categories and setting the stage for the country’s most prestigious celebration of marketing effectiveness. MMA India Jury Chair & board member Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director, Perfetti Van Melle India said, “I extend my heartiest congratulations to all winners for setting new benchmarks and reminding us of the power of ideas to drive progress. Today’s marketers continue to inspire - pushing boundaries with creativity, technology, and purpose. As Jury Chair, it was quite a challenge - a good one though - to firstly select the top few from nominations, and then to align with the jury team who themselves felt very strongly about their shortlist of some fabulous campaign entries. This year’s winners have proved that when innovation meets intent, the result is campaigns that not only make an impact but also truly connect with people."This year’s shortlist saw participation from a wide spectrum of India’s most influential marketers, with entries from Hindustan Unilever, PepsiCo, Mondelez, ITC, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Amazon, Swiggy, Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, Pernod Ricard, Diageo, Britannia, L’Oréal, Dabur, Federal Bank, Motilal Oswal, Aditya Birla Capital, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Apollo Tyres, Myntra, Hero MotoCorp, CEAT, Dell, Lenovo, and Mastercard, among others. The sheer breadth of industries - spanning FMCG, auto, e-commerce, finance, retail, consumer tech, and beyond - reflects SMARTIES’ position as the country’s definitive platform for marketing effectiveness.Moneka Khurana, Country Head & BOD Member, MMA Global India, said: “As SMARTIES continues to grow in scale and stature, what stood out this year was the diversity of work across categories - from AI-driven creativity to small budget campaigns delivering outsized impact. The jury’s rigor ensures that SMARTIES is not just about rewarding creativity, but about recognising marketing that truly drives business outcomes. The evolution we are witnessing in regional media, challenger brands, and technology-led consumer experiences reflects the resilience and ingenuity of Indian marketers. That is exactly the spirit SMARTIES was designed to celebrate.”The jury represented the full marketing ecosystem, bringing together leaders such as CMOs from Hindustan Unilever, Diageo, Tata Consumer Products, Hyundai, Lenovo, Pernod Ricard, Maruti Suzuki, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Nestlé, Colgate-Palmolive, and Bharti Airtel, along with agency and platform heads from GroupM, Meta, Google, Amazon Ads, Sony LIV, and Wavemaker. This cross-industry representation ensured that every campaign was evaluated through the sharpest, most diverse marketing lens.Jury Chair Virat Khullar, AVP & Vertical Head, Marketing, Hyundai Motor India, said: “As the Jury Chair for SMARTIES 2025 Awards, I am truly impressed by the quality of entries we have reviewed this year. The shortlisted nominees represent the best of marketing excellence - ideas that are bold, creative, and deeply resonate with audiences. These entries are dominating the new age media with usage of the latest marketing tech for impact and efficiency. Being able to recognize such outstanding talent and innovation is a privilege, and I look forward to celebrating their impact on our industry.”This year, Toluna joined as the official Jury Observer, capturing jury perspectives throughout the three-day evaluation. Their insights, drawn from live deliberations, will spotlight emerging trends in effectiveness and provide the industry with a sharper lens on what truly drives impact.Emerging themes of 2025Future Forward Tech: AR, VR, sonic, spatial, NFTs - bold experiments, but only a few translated into measurable impact.Local & Regional Rise: Homegrown brands outpacing globals in growth, with challenger brands disrupting and legacies leading with experience.AI in Marketing: Many attempts, but only a handful balanced creativity with ROI - still early days for true AI effectiveness.Festive & Quick Commerce: Campaigns that tapped into festive peaks and real-time commerce are reshaping consumer journeys.Unpack Quick Commerce in the Festive Season: Take the SurveyThis year also saw a surge in entries across Brand Experience, Real-Time Marketing, Small Budget-Big Impact, Social Media Marketing, Integrated eCommerce Innovation & Live Streaming, and AI-Driven Creative Excellence, reflecting where marketers are doubling down in 2025.Beyond campaign metals, SMARTIES also recognises Industry Awards, which honour the organisations and leading companies shaping the marketing landscape. These accolades celebrate the brands, agencies, publishers, enablers, and marketers setting new benchmarks for innovation, effectiveness, and growth across the ecosystem.From featuring in the WARC 100 - the global index of the world’s most awarded media campaigns - to contributing to RECMA’s global media agency scores, SMARTIES India 2025 connects local brilliance with global credibility.The program also contributes to the SMARTIES Business Impact Index, a global measure of marketing effectiveness, making it one of the only awards where winning directly influences both brand and agency reputation at scale.The shortlist now sets the stage for SMARTIES Unplugged on October 10 in Mumbai - a day-long immersion where industry leaders decode marketing’s future, followed by the SMARTIES Gala, where metals will be unveiled and the best of marketing effectiveness will be celebrated.

Katch International, the Dubai-headquartered PR, events, and experiential agency with offices in Riyadh and London, has enjoyed a bumper few months, with a host of exciting new client wins across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Strengthening its already robust portfolio, the agency has recently been appointed to represent an array of leading names spanning hospitality, F&B, automotive, and beauty, signalling another milestone in its regional growth. The news follows the agency’s 15th anniversary, which Katch proudly celebrated on August 31st, marking a decade and a half of creative campaigns and industry-defining work. Founded in 2010, Katch International has established itself as one of the Middle East’s leading PR agencies, with over 15 years of experience in delivering creative, results-driven campaigns. With a client roster spanning luxury, hospitality, live entertainment, F&B, real estate, wellness, and more, Katch’s integrated approach to storytelling has positioned it as the go-to partner for global and regional brands seeking to connect with audiences in a meaningful way. Over the past year, the agency has accelerated its expansion across both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, growing its team and enhancing its presence with a larger Riyadh office and an expanded Dubai HQ. Today, Katch manages more than 60 clients across multiple sectors, supported by dedicated in-house PR, social media, creative, Arabic, and strategy teams, and a strong focus on cultural relevance and market insight. In the UAE, Katch has recently added several high-profile names to its portfolio. In the ever-evolving F&B sector, Katch has welcomed KIGO, a sophisticated new omakase restaurant at Four Seasons DIFC,Adaline, a dinner-show venue blending classic Italian cuisine, live music, and karaoke in the heart of DIFC by Fundamental Hospitality, and71 Steak and Grill, a proudly homegrown UAE brand renowned for its wood-fire grilling and slow-smoking craft, now expanding from Ajman and Sharjah into Dubai. In the realm of live events, Katch will once again take charge of the PR for the renownedDubai Comedy Festival, now handling the communications for this fortnight of funny for the fifth year in a row.  Jetour, a global automotive brand exclusively partnered withElite Group Holding, has also chosen Katch to handle its communications as it enters the UAE market, delivering premium vehicles at exceptional value with a focus on innovation and lifestyle-driven mobility. In beauty,Sterling Perfumes, a globally recognised fragrance powerhouse present in over 132 countries, has joined Katch’s roster, further strengthening the agency’s foothold in the beauty and lifestyle space. Meanwhile, hospitality continues to be a cornerstone of Katch’s business, with the addition of Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Laneand Four Seasons Astir Palace, Athens, expanding the agency’s long-standing partnership with the globally renowned brand. Across Saudi Arabia, Katch continues to deepen its impact with the signing ofRixos Murjana, the Kingdom’s first all-inclusive resort, blending Hijazi charm with modern luxury on the Red Sea coast. This major win builds on the agency’s existing portfolio in the Kingdom, which includesFour Seasons Hotel Riyadh, The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton, andAddress Jabal Omar Makkah. In addition to these new signings, Katch also is set to host theFour Seasons Riyadh x Piaget Afternoon Tea, a collaboration highlighting the agency’s strength in luxury brand activations. Dhara Bhatia, Group PR Director of Katch International, commented, “Our recent client wins reflect the trust that leading global and regional brands continue to place in us, and we are incredibly proud to be part of their journeys. Our portfolio has never been more diverse than it is now, and as we expand across both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, we are just as dedicated to delivering bold, creative, and culturally resonant campaigns that truly connect with audiences.” Outside the region, the agency has been appointed to manage PR in both the UK and GCC markets for theVerdala Wellness Hotel in Malta, a five-star boutique retreat within the AX Privilege Collection that redefines luxury and wellbeing through its integration of natural therapies, cultural traditions, and advanced wellness technology. Additionally, Katch has welcomed the Four Seasons China Collection, handling communications for the brand’s distinguished properties across the country, further cementing its role as a trusted partner for Four Seasons on a truly international scale. With an ever-expanding footprint and an increasingly diverse portfolio, Katch International continues to build momentum across the GCC. The agency’s growth in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia marks just the beginning of a new chapter, with more high-profile projects, strategic partnerships, and market-defining campaigns set to be announced in the months ahead.

Heritage Hospitals, a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in India, today announced the appointment of Vigor Media Worldwide as its strategic Public Relations (PR) partner. This partnership aims to enhance Heritage Hospitals' brand visibility, deepen stakeholder engagement, and reinforce its reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centric care.With over three decades of experience in delivering world-class healthcare, Heritage Hospitals has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. The hospital's state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced medical technologies, and highly skilled clinicians have enabled it to set benchmarks in trust-based and ethical healthcare delivery."We are delighted to partner with Vigor Media Worldwide, a renowned PR agency with a pan-India presence and global network," said Dr. Richa Rai, CEO of Heritage Hospitals. "This partnership will help us strengthen our communication strategy and share our values of transparency, trust, and cutting-edge medical care with a wider audience."Vigor Media Worldwide will work closely with Heritage Hospitals to develop a robust communications framework, providing strategic media outreach, stakeholder engagement, and brand visibility solutions."We are honored to work with Heritage Hospitals, a pioneering brand in Indian healthcare," said Mr. Nikhil Singhal, Founder of Vigor Media Worldwide. "Our focus will be to amplify Heritage's achievements in medical excellence and create deeper connections with its stakeholders through innovative PR initiatives."

Since 2015, the percentage of retail sales being made online has more than doubled, from 12 percent to 26 percent. The trajectory is clear ?Çô sales are increasingly moving online.That said, the challenges facing online retailers are very different to bricks and mortar sellers, with daily abandoned carts accounting for billions in lost sales in the UK alone. But why do so many people abandon their digital shopping carts, and can anything be done once they have? The reasons behind abandonment are varied, but there are solutions that can help ?Çô and they are not hard or expensive to implement.With minimal investment, those that have abandoned their carts can be reengaged - turning interested shoppers into committed buyers. With an increasingly competitive retail ecosystem, omni-channel remarketing is a way to maximise a website?ÇÖs sale potential and should be a foundational component for ecommerce strategies. The financial impact of abandoned shopping cartsAccording to a report published in Retail Gazette online retailers lost ?ú38bn in 2024, with 24% of all items in shopping carts abandoned. In increasingly challenging times for the online retail space, missed opportunities such as these can be detrimental for businesses.Looking into some of DMAC Media?ÇÖs own clients' accounts, we learnt that many businesses lost between three and ten sales per day with an average order value of ?ú305. This could mean an annual loss of over ?ú700,000. When every penny counts, reducing the impact of abandoned carts has never been so important. Why do shoppers abandon their carts?In traditional in-store retail, if a shopper puts an item in their shopping cart, they are very likely going to buy it. In ecommerce however, it?ÇÖs far easier to abandon a shopping cart - you can simply close a tab and never return to make the purchase. The reasons behind a shopper abandoning their cart are myriad but users typically fall into one of two categories. The first are those that make an active decision to leave, often owing to something that happened during the checkout process. It?ÇÖs an inescapable truth that some users get cold feet before buying, but others are put off for more specific reasons. One of the leading causes of cart abandonment is the lack of ?Çÿcheckout as guest?ÇÖ options. This approach forces interested shoppers into having to spend time setting up an account, which can create a barrier to purchase.Other factors in an unoptimised checkout process include limited payment options and long delivery times, each of which can cause a user to abandon their cart. It will be very difficult to reengage these shoppers.Our second category, however, includes those users that haven?ÇÖt deliberately or fully decided to not buy, they may have simply been distracted and navigated away from the checkout or may need a little more time to make the decision to purchase. In either case, the danger here for businesses is that the user forgets about the purchase and never returns to complete the transaction. In previous years, these users were lost but they can now be reengaged. With the right approach, lost sales can simply be transformed into delayed sales.The solution? Omni channel remarketingOmni channel remarketing is a cost-effective, proven solution for our second category of shoppers, those who abandoned their carts. This approach includes the strategic use of online and offline marketing channels to reengage those shoppers.Automated email marketing is a typical first step, whereby potential customers are not only refamiliarised with a brand, but they can also be directly reminded of the purchase they were considering. If a website uses cookies and sessions to retain data, the user may find their previously abandoned order already in their cart, ready to be purchased. In support of this, short and medium-term use of search engine and social media advertising can be used to amplify the brand and reengage the user into the buying process. Our customers have reported that by implementing an omni channel remarketing strategy, lost checkouts have been reduced by an average of 16 percent, or approximately ?ú112,000 per year. To avoid losing those shoppers that fell into the first category, companies need to invest in a more streamlined checkout process that removes barriers where possible. Making a transaction as easy as possible with good UX on your website is a proven way to ensure a user doesn?ÇÖt abandon their cart in the first place. Using a winning combination of improved user experience while adopting the right omni channel remarketing strategy, lost shoppers can be won back. While no business will ever be able to convert every shopper into a paying customer, the combination of checkout evaluation and omni channel remarketing will help to reduce the impact of cart abandonment and ultimately increase revenue.

The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has officially opened a call for proposals from experienced public relations and communications agencies to spearhead its 2026 strategic communications plan. The initiative aims to amplify the UAE?ÇÖs climate leadership and environmental achievements on both national and international platforms.Hajar Alketbi, Director of Government Communications at MOCCAE, announced the opportunity via LinkedIn, inviting UAE-based agencies to take charge of shaping the country?ÇÖs climate action narrative, supporting Net Zero 2050 goals, and enhancing ministerial visibility through powerful media and stakeholder engagement.The selected agency will also be expected to lead youth and influencer campaigns and deliver measurable impact in environmental communication.This opportunity is open only to UAE-registered PR firms with strong expertise in sustainability, bilingual capabilities, and a proven track record within the region?ÇÖs media ecosystem.Further details, including proposal guidelines and submission deadlines, are available through the Federal Procurement Platform.

In a strategic move to strengthen its marketing leadership and drive accelerated brand growth, Asian Footwear Pvt. Ltd., India?ÇÖs leading premium-quality family footwear brand, proudly announces the appointment of Abhishek Singh Chauhan as Lead ?Çô Brand Marketing & Communication.With over 19 years of diverse and high-impact experience, Abhishek brings a rich blend of expertise to the role, spanning media, advertising, brand strategy, digital transformation, and content production. His journey spans 5 years in media and advertising agencies, 6 years in content leadership roles at Content production house and GroupM /WPP Media agencies, and over 7 years leading brand growth on the client side?Çöa trajectory marked by standout results, including 121% revenue growth at one brand and 32% at another, even as competitors saw flat or negative growth during the same period.Commenting on his new role, as Lead ?Çô Brand Marketing & Communication, at Asian Footwear, Abhishek Singh Chauhan said, ?Ç£I am excited to join the dynamic team at Asian Footwears, a brand that is walking with India?Çöliterally and metaphorically. The ambition here is bold, the legacy is strong, and the potential is immense. My goal is to integrate storytelling, digital intelligence, and purpose-driven marketing to create lasting consumer love and category leadership.?Ç¥Abhishek has successfully delivered 300+ content projects, multiple national campaigns, TVCs, documentaries, and product launches. From spearheading pan-India digital and offline media plans to executing AI-enabled marketing automation and launching mobile apps, his cross-functional leadership is well-aligned with Asian?ÇÖs vision to expand further across metros and emerging Bharat markets.He is an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad (MDP) and holds an MBA in Marketing, with certifications in film marketing from Cannes, France. Known for driving innovation through integrated brand-building, he previously held senior leadership roles at Dorset Industries, Ozone Group, Team Airtel & Essence (GroupM), and Ogilvy, managing marquee campaigns and TVC projects for Airtel, Zee5, Hyundai, Mankind Pharma, and other prominent brands.

PRCA MENA has announced the return of its flagship Annual Conference, scheduled to take place on Thursday, 18th September 2025. This year?ÇÖs edition will feature a refreshed format designed to foster deeper engagement and cross-generational collaboration within the communications industry.A key highlight of the 2025 conference will be the NextGen Summit, set to take place in the second half of the day. By combining the Annual Conference with the NextGen Summit, PRCA MENA aims to create a unique platform that brings together seasoned professionals and emerging talent, sparking thought-provoking dialogue, learning opportunities, and meaningful industry connections.Conrad Egbert, Head of PRCA MENA, commented: ?Ç£This year?ÇÖs conference brings the region?ÇÖs communication community into one room?Çönot just to share ideas, but to challenge them. By pairing the Annual Conference with the NextGen Summit, we?ÇÖre creating a space where experience and ambition intersect to explore the future of our industry with depth, relevance, and purpose.?Ç¥Sarah Waddington CBE, PRCA Interim CEO, added: ?Ç£This event represents the best of what PRCA stands for ?Çô inclusion, innovation, and collaboration. MENA continues to push the boundaries of communication, and this conference is an opportunity to celebrate that progress while setting the tone for the future.?Ç¥With a full-day agenda including keynote presentations, panel discussions, and practical sessions, the conference promises to explore the most relevant themes shaping the future of PR and communications in the MENA region. The event is open to professionals across all career stages, offering value for both established practitioners and emerging voices in the industry.

Organic by MSL, MSL India's digital communications practice, has strengthened its leadership team with key elevations to better serve clients' strategic and creative needs in a dynamic media environment. A 150-strong operation, Organic sits at the confluence of creativity, communications, and platforms, reaching diverse stakeholders across touchpoints. The business has been growing steadily with unique offerings and prominent client wins having been recognised with 20+ awards in the last year alone. Tushar Bajaj, MD Organic by MSL, said, "I am delighted to share the promotions of our two leaders in shaping the future of Organic. We are incredibly lucky to have in-house talent with a unique understanding of audiences and risks and being able to power solutions with innovation and creativity.?Ç¥Vidhi Thakur has taken on the role of Chief Operating Officer for Organic by MSL in addition to leading the integrated Social Sector practice, Mobilise. She has spent over a decade at the firm, working in PR and strategy, and she has had a stint in MSL Hong Kong. Over the last four years, leading client engagement for Organic and building the social sector practice, she has been instrumental in driving operational efficiencies and expanding the capabilities and in her new role, she will be responsible for integrating core capabilities across the entire digital team and driving strategic growth for the business. Sharing her thoughts on the elevation, she said, "I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Organic by MSL. MSL is where I have had the privilege to grow and evolve alongside an incredible team witnessing firsthand the agency's transformation and our remarkable achievements together. Our collective dedication to innovation and excellence has shaped my journey here. I look forward to leading us into the next chapter of our growth. Srishti Gairola has been elevated to lead the creative duties as National Creative Director in addition to her role as EVP leading the west for Organic by MSL. Her experience leading creative client solutions in India and Singapore enables her to drive the expanded creative capabilities Organic now offers with multiple award wins across major industry platforms recognising this progress. In her new role, she will drive the creative charter forward, bringing new innovations and digital thinking to marketing and corporate communications mandates, helping clients stand out from the content clutter surrounding us, and influencing their audiences to take action. Srishti on her new role said, ?Ç£We've been hard at work at Organic, building a future-ready team and bringing home some of the best and most innovative brands in the country. The success we've seen is a direct result of that hard work. We now have some of the best creative talent in the industry and I am super excited at what we can deliver for our clients. Commenting on the changes, Amit Misra, CEO of MSL South Asia, said, ?Ç£Organic by MSL has grown from being 10% of our business to now contributing to 50%. The team has augmented our strong public relations offering, allowing us to cater to the diverse and evolving needs of our clients." 

Eastman Auto and Power Ltd. has announced the appointment of Sudham Ravinutala as Chief Marketing Officer. With a proven track record of driving growth and brand recognition in the energy sector, Sudham will spearhead the company?ÇÖs marketing and product strategy as it embarks on a new chapter of innovation and expansion to build the brand Eastman. In his new role, Sudham shall focus on enhancing Eastman?ÇÖs visibility and brand presence by developing effective customer engagement strategies. His extensive experience in Marketing Planning, Strategy, Go to Market and, New Product Development shall be instrumental in positioning Eastman as a leader in Last Mile E-Mobility Solutions, Continued Energy Solutions, and Solar Rooftop Solutions. Sudham brings close to twenty-five years of diverse experience, having worked with renowned brands such as Nokia, Lenovo, TVS Electronics, Micromax, and most recently, Luminous, where he served as Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Strategy. He also held the position of National Marketing Head at India?ÇÖs largest FM Radio Network, 92.7 BIG FM, and was the Head of Go-To-Market & Activation at MixRadio India. His multifaceted career spans IT, Telecom, Media, and Mobile VAS, showcasing a rich blend of skills across the marketing spectrum. In addition to his marketing expertise, Sudham is a published novelist. His first book, Eighteen: The End of Innocence, reached the Top 150 Romance Novels on Amazon India, while his second novel, Twenty Somethings: For Love or Ambition, made it to the Top50 Bestsellers in the Contemporary Romance category and the Top25 Hot New sellers lists. He also has published Musings - An Anthology of Poems written in English and in Hindi. Sudham?ÇÖs appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Eastman Auto and Power as the company aims to expand its market footprint and enhance its product offerings. His leadership is expected to catalyze innovative marketing initiatives that resonate with customers and align with the company?ÇÖs vision for sustainable growth. Eastman is excited to leverage Sudham?ÇÖs expertise to strengthen its brand and further establish itself as a trusted name in the industry.

Weber Shandwick's "First Edible Mascot" campaign for Pop-Tarts shatters barriers, becoming the first PR win in the Brand Experience & Activation Grand Prix at Cannes Lions 2024.This win marks a high point for PR at the prestigious festival, following Golin's "The Misheard Version" for Specsavers, which secured the PR Grand Prix and showcased PR agencies' creative leadership potential.The "Edible Mascot" campaign ?Çô a collaboration between Weber Shandwick, Kellanova, Florida Citrus Sports, Publicis, and others ?Çô was a massive success. It involved creating a giant, limbed Pop-Tart mascot for the Pop-Tart Bowl and treating players with edible versions after the game. The result? A viral sensation:Over 4 billion impressions$1 million in first-party data acquired15 times more brand mentions than all other non-sponsored bowl games combined.Industrywide TriumphWeber Shandwick's win wasn't the only PR highlight. Ogilvy also secured a Grand Prix for social & influencer with the "Michael CeraVe" campaign, demonstrating PR's growing influence in multi-platform campaigns.Additionally, PR agencies played a key role in securing Gold Lions for:Edelman's "Bar Experience" for HeinekenWeber Shandwick's "Translators" for U.S. Bank (part of IPG's Area 23 network's "In Transit" for NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project)Zeno's support for Rethink Toronto's "Heinz Ketchup Fraud" campaignThis year's Cannes Lions is a testament to the evolving role of PR agencies, showcasing their ability to drive creative, impactful brand experiences.

After over twelve years at the helm, Roger Bolton will be stepping down as president of Page (formerly the Arthur W. Page Society) at the end of 2024.The Arthur W. Page Society is a professional network for communication leaders, particularly those in C-Suite roles. Its mission is to enhance members' influence within their organizations and advocate for effective communication benefiting all stakeholders. Established in 1983, the society is named after Arthur W. Page, who served as vice president of public relations for American Telephone and Telegraph Company from 1927 to 1946. Page was the first public relations executive to become an officer and board member of a major public corporation, pioneering the strategic role of the Chief Communication Officer (CCO).?Ç£It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as president of this outstanding professional community and I leave with deep gratitude to all of our members for their support and collaboration in taking Page to new heights. It?ÇÖs time for new leadership at Page and time for me to move on to other professional pursuits,?Ç¥ Bolton said in a statement. Bolton?ÇÖs tenure coincided with Page?ÇÖs significant growth in membership, diversity, and international reach. He is credited with furthering Page?ÇÖs mission of empowering communication leaders and enhancing their influence within C-Suites. ?Ç£We are grateful for Roger?ÇÖs extraordinary service to Page and our profession. Roger has led Page through more than a decade of growth and influence by strengthening our remarkable community and the impact of communication leaders on business and society,?Ç¥ said the newly appointed Hill & Knowlton global CEO Kelli Parsons, who is also the Page chair. Prior to becoming CEO in 2011, Bolton chaired Page (2006-2007) and held senior communication and public affairs positions at Aetna, IBM, the US Treasury Department, the White House, and other government institutions.The search for Bolton?ÇÖs successor will commence shortly. Details will be announced following the June 20th Page Board of Trustees meeting. Bolton will share information about his future plans at a later date.

The Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA), the region's leading body for public relations and communication professionals, has released the industry?ÇÖs first whitepaper on artificial intelligence (AI) usage guidelines within the communications sector.Developed by MEPRA?ÇÖs AI Committee - with ChatGPT helping to inform topline recommendations ?Çô the association identified 8 guiding points providing a framework for using AI for its members and others working in communications in the Middle East.The guidelines, which took regional and global AI guiding resources into consideration, are intended to be used alongside other guidance, policies and references to help inform ethical and legal use of the technology in the daily content production.Commenting on the release, Margaret Flanagan, Co-Founder of Tales & Heads and Head of MEPRA?ÇÖs AI Committee, stated: ?Ç£With the aim of optimising the use of AI and protecting the output of the public relations and communications industry in the region, we have developed the first framework that intends to help the industry standardise the way it benefits from the use of AI tools. We wanted to ensure that everyone working in communications in the region is aware of the ethical and legal ramifications of using these technologies, and the responsibilities we have to the organisations we work with and to other stakeholders, including media and the wider public. Given the speed at which AI is evolving, as well as the dynamic regulations that govern its use, we are aware that these guidelines and resources will also need to evolve. MEPRA will continue to provide practical guidance and updates in line with these changes?Ç¥.The members of the MEPRA AI Committee are Ibrahim Al Mutawa, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Jummar PR; Tala Abu Taha, Director of PR, Viola Communications; Andrea Gissdal, Independent Communications Consultant; Natasha Hatherall-Shaw, Founder and CEO, TishTash; Henry Jakins SVP, Head of Brand & Business Marketing, First Abu Dhabi Bank; Professor Dahlia Mahmoud, University of Europe for Applied Sciences; Joseph Nalloor, Discipline Lead, School of Communications, Murdoch University Dubai; Kirsty O'Connor, Regional Director of Innovation, Hill & Knowlton; Neda Shelton, SVP Group Communications , Mubadala; Inka Stever Professor of Practice at Zayed University, College of Communication and Media Sciences; and Denise Yammine Chouity, Director of Operations at GREY Qatar.The guidelines released by MEPRA are listed below.1. Be honest and open: Always inform people when you're using AI in PR and communication to strengthen trust.This means having a conversation with your client or line manager to let them know if and how you are using AI, before you use it. This doesn?ÇÖt necessarily mean informing them in each instance, but it does mean discussing parameters of use. If asked directly if you used AI on a specific project, be honest and transparent.If you are asked not to use AI for a specific project, don?ÇÖt. We recommend looking at best practice guidelines, like Cambridge University?ÇÖs, on how to best use text, audio and visual AI tools. It would be prudent to keep up on relevant legal articles, as change is constant when it comes to bills proposed to further define intellectual property and fair use of creative content.2. Be responsible and credible: It?ÇÖs essential for our industry to be truthful about the use of AI in content shared with the media.It's important that transparency about our use of AI extends to materials shared with media. Media images, videos and audio created using AI should always be labelled accurately, while text content for media should ideally be written in whole by a human and at the very minimum, have significant human intervention. If not, it should be labelled as AI generated text.Concerns around misinformation and disinformation are increasing and trust in the media decreasing, and AI generated content has the potential to further undermine this trust. Communications professionals have a responsibility to the media outlets they work with to provide content that does not risk damaging an outlet?ÇÖs reputation or lessening credibility among their audiences. It is important to have a plan in place to immediately rectify an issue or crisis caused by sharing AI generated content with media.3. Respect privacy: Make sure any AI tools you use follow the rules about keeping people's information private and their use of copyrighted content.It?ÇÖs worth remembering that the data you give to AI tools ?Çô including prompts and files, as well as your own account information ?Çô is kept and used by the companies behind those tools as standard practice. Understanding privacy settings and what you need to opt in or out of to keep information safe is essential. As an industry we handle lots of sensitive information for clients and our organisations ?Çô including governments and listed companies. To reduce any risk, only input data and files that are non-confidential or already in the public realm. Your clients or organisation may also have data security protocols and NDAs relating to the use of AI that you need to adhere to, so make sure you are aware of your responsibilities.4. Get it right: Double-check that any content or data AI helps create is accurate before sharing it, so you don't spread false information.Always check facts using trusted sources. Reference scientific research, reputable third parties and trusted media. Look for original sources and research findings wherever possible rather than second-hand references. AI has been known to create facts and figures, and even links to non-existent media stories and research so don?ÇÖt assume that the information provided is accurate. It?ÇÖs important that our industry does not help to propagate misinformation. If your content is in Arabic, it?ÇÖs also worth remembering that AI tools will be working with a much smaller content base than English language, so will need more human interaction and editing, as well as additional fact checking.5. Treat everyone fairly: Watch out for any unfair biases/cultural sensitivities in AI programmes and content and do your best to make sure everyone feels included and represented.Machine learning has a history of building on our own implicit human biases and magnifying them, which means that AI-generated content can be misrepresentative or exacerbate stereotypes. Always look at text, images, or audio created or complemented by AI with a critical eye. Using thoughtful prompts can help create more inclusive content, but as many of the biases need to be tackled within the existing technologies, it?ÇÖs up to us to gatekeep what?ÇÖs created and ensure it accurately represents our clients and our organisations as well as our cultures and communities. Consider whose voices are not represented in the AI generated content, and if there are other expert sources that should be included.6. Keep it real: Use AI to help your work but remember that real human creativity and connection are what make communication effective and genuine.Remember that AI is only able to draw on sources of existing material and references, rather than create. While detailed prompts provided can fine tune tone and technical outcomes, machines make links and connections in different ways to humans. They can?ÇÖt see, they can?ÇÖt smell, they can?ÇÖt taste, they can?ÇÖt feel. The best copy and the best images are the ones that stand out and make us think or feel differently. Right now, nothing does that better than creative people.7. Think about people: Your use of AI might affect society, so make sure you're using it in a way that helps people, not just your bottom line. Encourage your team and others in the industry to use AI responsibly and fairly.The implications of the use of AI are going to be huge and far reaching. Right now, they are also largely unknown and unforeseen. Whether they bring job losses or job gains, create greater equity or further division will only be known in time. In the meantime, we can ensure our own use of AI technologies remains considered. That means practical things like not billing clients or logging hours for work that was done by AI for the human equivalent. It means using the skills of human editors, copywriters, graphic designers, photographers and videographers where we know that the value and veracity this brings is critical (including in our submissions to media). And it means using AI to help us make better decisions, rather than outsourcing these decisions to the technology itself.8. Keep learning and improving: Stay on top of how AI is changing PR and communication. Be ready to adjust how you use it to make sure you're doing the right thing. Not only is AI itself constantly evolving, but so are the rules and regulations that govern its use across industries and markets. We?ÇÖre likely to see many more changes in the future, as the technology changes, and as we apply its power in new ways. We?ÇÖre also likely to see increased debates around ownership and copyright use ?Çô like the New York Times lawsuit with Microsoft, which could have significant implications for media and communications; as well as heightened concerns about AI?ÇÖs use to support the spread of misinformation and disinformation. It?ÇÖs up to all of us to be aware of what?ÇÖs happening, and our own role in ensuring that our use of AI is both ethical and legal.(Image by Jernej Furman from Slovenia/ Wikimedia Commons)

The AFO Group, following a rebrand from Markettiers4DC after investment from Waterland Private Equity, has announced its official entry into the US market. The company, already generating $3 million annually in the US, has established its first North American office in New York City. This strategic move paves the way for a series of planned acquisitions across multiple states.Leading the US charge is Melissa Cruz, (pictured), who joins AFO from Cision. As the newly appointed Client Director, Cruz brings a wealth of experience in media relations strategy, having managed media tours for renowned clients like Ketchum, Ogilvy, and Merck. Her expertise spans diverse sectors, including entertainment, non-profit, pharmaceuticals, and lifestyle. Previously, Cruz honed her skills in event production and post-production, working with industry giants like HBO and Jim Henson Productions.AFO Group CEO Howard Kosky explains the US expansion as a client-driven initiative fueled by Waterland's investment. "We can service a significant portion of our US workload from the UK," says Kosky, highlighting AFO's content production arm, Sassy Create, which frequently collaborates with West Coast film distributors and clients like LinkedIn in San Francisco. "However," Kosky continues, "establishing a US presence is crucial for planned acquisitions on the West Coast and in Austin. We have a long-term vision, and growth won't solely depend on acquisitions. We prioritize finding the right people and cultural fit. While speed is important, we'll only pursue deals that align strategically."The AFO Group, with over 250 employees, boasts a diverse portfolio of agencies beyond broadcast PR specialist Markettiers. This includes international market research consultancy Censuswide, content production agency Through The I, media organization Radio News Hub, podcast consultancy 4DC, data and insights specialist Opinion Matters, and marketing strategist Hollr.

PR agency Golin has announced the promotion of Rafidah Rashid to Group Managing Director. In this newly created role, Rashid will provide centralized leadership and strategic direction for the agency's Singapore operations.Rashid brings over 13 years of experience in marketing communications to the role. Prior to her promotion, she served as Managing Director of Consumer, overseeing various sectors including beauty, lifestyle, education, and entertainment. Rashid is also a champion for diversity and inclusion, having recently been appointed co-lead of Golin's Asia Pacific Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council.Previously, Rashid honed her skills at DeVries Global, where she started as an Account Manager and eventually rose to become Managing Director within nine years. She brings a wealth of experience to Golin and will continue to report to Darren Burns, President of Asia Pacific.Expressing happiness over appointing Fidah to this role, Darren Burns, president of Asia Pacific, said that her unmatched energy for innovation, ability to create a vibrant culture, and her unique blend of experience, make her perfect for this role.?Ç£Under her leadership, we are evolving a new era that builds off our sustained success in Singapore,?Ç¥ Burns said. Rafidah Rashid said: ?Ç£As a leader, my mission is to champion industry-first innovations for brands, while empowering our people to reach their full potential."

Ryan Woor, co-founder and chief operating officer of M&C Saatchi Talk, is departing from the agency after an 18-year tenure.In a LinkedIn post, Woor announced his resignation from both the agency and his role as president of SERMO, M&C Saatchi Talk?ÇÖs global network of independent communications agencies, which he co-founded.Reflecting on his time at the agency, Woor stated, ?Ç£It?ÇÖs been quite a journey, filled with unforgettable experiences, immense opportunities to grow, the privilege to work with some of the most talented individuals in the industry, and most of all, a lot of fun.?Ç¥Woor joined the agency in 2008 when it was known as Talk.Global. He has led the business since CEO Jane Boardman?ÇÖs departure earlier this year, following her decision to leave agency life after more than two decades. Woor and Boardman were instrumental in the 2020 merger of M&C Saatchi PR and Talk.Global, forming M&C Saatchi Talk.Expressing pride in his collaboration with Boardman, Woor said, ?Ç£I am incredibly proud of the agency we built together and everything we achieved. But it now feels like we have reached the end of an era, and the time is right for the agency to move into the next chapter under new leadership.?Ç¥Woor, who has held business and finance roles at Ogilvy, co-founded M&C Saatchi Proud, the group?ÇÖs LGBTQIA+ network. He has also worked with global beauty brands, including Coty, and is a member of the executive board of the British Beauty Council.In related news, M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, another PR agency within the M&C Saatchi group, recently saw the resignation of its long-time leadership team. Global CEO Steve Martin and UK CEO Jamie Wynne-Morgan, both of whom served over 20 years, have announced their departures, hinting at a ?Ç£new venture coming soon.?Ç¥These leadership changes coincide with M&C Saatchi restructuring its UK operations and repositioning M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment as its new "passion marketing" agency, with expectations that M&C Saatchi Talk will also integrate into this new division.

Australian green tech company Sircel has selected PR and creative agency Keep Left to develop a comprehensive go-to-market strategy. This strategic partnership aims to propel Sircel's growth through a refreshed brand image and a powerful communications approach.Laura Agricola, Strategy Director, Keep Left, said: ?Ç£The e-waste space is coming sharp into focus as one of the major environmental issues of our time. Resources are finite, and we can?ÇÖt keep doing what we?ÇÖve been doing and dumping so much e-waste into landfill. Sircel is leading the industry and solving a huge problem by bringing end-of-life technology back to life. They have an important story to tell, and we?ÇÖre delighted to join forces with them to tackle the e-waste problem, head on.?Ç¥Angie Bradbury, Sircel's Consulting Marketing Director, highlights the perfect fit: "With a proven track record in collaborating with technology-driven and socially-conscious brands, Keep Left stood out as the perfect partner for Sircel. The agency is helping us raise awareness for the critical and time-sensitive nature of the global e-waste crisis while conveying Sircel's market-leading capability, firmly grounded in environmental, social, and governance principles.?Ç¥

Weber Shandwick has announced a significant expansion of its UK creative team, including promotions for existing staff and the addition of new talent.Promotions:Klein Borrill has been promoted to the newly created role of UK Head of Design. Borrill brings extensive experience from his previous role as Head of Design at That Lot, a social creative agency that joined the Weber Shandwick Collective in 2018.Jack Duffield and Chris Marsden, who joined the agency in 2022, have been promoted to Associate Creative Directors. They recently led the creation of a successful pop-up for eBay UK.Charlie Powell has been promoted to Conceptual Creative after transitioning from the consumer team to the creative team.New Hires:Carly Illston joins Weber Shandwick as an Art Director, teaming up with Copywriter Marley Muirhead. They previously worked together at multiple agencies.Leadership:The expanded creative department now reports to UK President Amy Garrett, who emphasized the team's role in empowering clients to achieve their business goals.Recent Appointment:This news follows the recent appointment of Yan Elliott as Weber Shandwick's Chief Creative Officer in London.

LLYC, a global corporate affairs and marketing firm, has acquired Dattis Comunicaciones, a leading Colombian communication services company, to become the top player in Colombia and solidify its leadership in Latin America.LLYC has been operating in Colombia since 2001, and with this recent acquisition, the company has consolidated its revenue in the country to over 12 million euros. LLYC serves over 140 national and international clients and is strategically located in Bogot?í and Medell?¡n, with a team of 175 professionals."Colombia has always been one of our key markets in Latin America. Adding Dattis' talent, scope, and expertise to our value proposition represents a significant leap in our business vision in the country," said Juan Carlos Gozzer, LLYC's CEO for Latin America.LLYC is acquiring 78.69% of Dattis at a valuation of six times EBITDA. Andres Ortiz, Senior Partner, will retain the remaining 21.31%. Dario Vargas, the company's founder, and other minority partners will sell their stakes."The acquisition strengthens LLYC's influence in Colombia, allowing for the advancement of communication, public affairs, and marketing in line with societal and business needs," said Maria Esteve, LLYC's partner and general manager of Corporate Affairs for Latin America. "This acquisition will enable us to amplify LLYC's impact, further driving our evolution to address the new realities. I'm deeply excited to see this deal come to fruition as it materializes a vision that I've shared with Jose Antonio Llorente for years""This milestone fills us with excitement. Over the past 25 years, Dattis has solidified its position as a leading communication company in Colombia," explained Andres Ortiz, Senior Partner of Dattis. "Now, with our integration into LLYC, we're embarking on an exciting new chapter. This marks a tremendous opportunity for our team and boosts our client solutions. It's the realization of a vision that began with Dario Vargas, Dattis' founder, and has been strengthened by our current management team. This acquisition not only benefits our shareholders but also secures a promising future for our organization."Dattis will operate as Dattis by LLYC in 2024, alongside LLYC Colombia, with Andres Ortiz leading Dattis and Camila Gomez Pardo as President. Starting in 2025, under the LLYC brand, Ortiz, Gomez, and Alejandra Aljure, LLYC Colombia's current general manager, will lead the unified structure."Dattis and LLYC share a vision of excellence and added value. Together, we'll explore complementary opportunities to grow our current offering, benefit our clients and nurture our team," said David Gonzalez Natal, LLYC's Managing Director for North Latam.Dattis Comunicaciones, established 25 years ago, is a leading provider of communication services in Colombia. It has over 100 employees, serves 80 clients, and has offices in Bogot?í and Medell?¡n, with plans to expand into Peru and Ecuador.The company has established itself as a key partner for many businesses, particularly large national organizations, providing innovative brand reputation management and positioning across corporate communication, crisis management, public affairs, PR marketing, influence, creativity, and content areas.This acquisition aligns with LLYC's Strategic Plan to invest 40 million euros in high-potential markets, solidifying its position as the leader in Colombia and driving accelerated growth in Latin America. LLYC has now concluded its twelfth operation in nine years with this acquisition, including the notable purchase of Lambert in the US for 16.8 million euros, the firm's largest acquisition to date.LLYC operates in 27 locations worldwide and has been recognized as a top global communication company by PR Week and PRovoke. Since 2020, the firm has doubled in size and recurrent EBITDA, with operational revenues growing by 14% last year, reaching 83.1 million euros.

The Shipyard, an independent full-service advertising agency based in Columbus, Ohio, has acquired Fahlgren Mortine, one of the top 20 firms in the nation (O'Dwyer's), and the two-time reigning Mid-Sized Agency of the Year as designated by the Public Relations Society of America. "Fahlgren Mortine is recognized as a leader in the industry," said The Shipyard founder and CEO Rick Milenthal. "With our shared values, combined resources and a galvanizing mission of 'Engineering Brand Love' wherever audiences consume media, we are creating the leading independent platform in the country that creates great value for our clients."The Shipyard will maintain the Fahlgren Mortine brand, which will now have access to expanded media buying volume, creative firepower and data and analytics resources.The combined company represents $350 Million in billings, with 400 professionals and 10 offices throughout the country. The companies already share clients in addition to B2C and B2B industry expertise in tourism and economic development, financial services, consumer products, energy, retail, building products, logistics, technology and healthcare.Fahlgren Mortine leadership remains in place with CEO Neil Mortine, and Marty McDonald, who was named president in 2022. Neil Mortine will also be named vice chairman for The Shipyard and Christine Turner will continue as president of TURNER, a subsidiary brand of Fahlgren Mortine since 2014. TURNER focuses on integrated communications for travel, tourism and active lifestyle brands with offices in New York City, Denver and Chicago. Mortine confirmed: "We are certain this is the right next move for Fahlgren Mortine. We complement each other's strengths and specialties with a shared love for our community, bold national vision, and a commitment to doing work that makes a difference."Fahlgren Mortine was previously owned by Eastport Holdings, a leading communications network, which acquired the firm in 2018.The Shipyard announced last August a minority investment from Alaris Equity Partners which provided funding for this strategic investment in growth.

Gregory FCA, one of the top 40 largest public relations firms in the US, has acquired BackBay Communications, a specialized financial strategic communications agency with offices in Boston and London. Based on O'Dwyer's 2024 ranking of financial PR firms, the deal creates the country?ÇÖs sixth largest financially focused strategic communications firm.The BackBay acquisition is part of Gregory FCA's broader growth strategy and its third acquisition with minority investor Copley Equity Partners. The deal adds to Gregory FCA?ÇÖs deep bench of financial expertise with a stable of public relations and content professionals, including former journalists and analysts from The New York Times, Money, S&P Global, Celent, and American Banker.?Ç£Talent wins,?Ç¥ says Greg Matusky, CEO and Founder of Gregory FCA. ?Ç£While AI promises to disrupt our industry, talent is still the key driver. Complementing our award-winning, industry-recognized team, BackBay brings an impressive lineup of the brightest minds in strategic communications. We welcome BackBay into our verticalized practice, serving financial services, technology, real estate, healthcare, supply chain, nonprofit, and sustainability clients.?Ç¥For BackBay, the move provides an expanded suite of offerings through Gregory FCA's investor relations, creative services, and digital marketing capabilities. In addition, BackBay gains access to Gregory FCA?ÇÖs portfolio of AI tools designed to add efficiencies to agency workflows and amplify client outcomes.BackBay will continue to operate under its trade name, with founder and CEO Bill Haynes leading the 27-person BackBay team as Executive Vice President and Managing Director. Haynes joins Gregory FCA?ÇÖs New York Managing Director Brittany Bevacqua and newly elevated Chief Operating Officer Brittany Liberatore on the leadership team alongside Matusky and agency co-owner, President and head of Gregory FCA?ÇÖs financial services division, Joe Anthony.?Ç£We are proud of the culture, client base, and firm we have built at BackBay, so it was imperative for us to find a partner that shares our focus, approach, and values. We found that and more in Gregory FCA,?Ç¥ says Haynes. ?Ç£The acquisition will provide enhanced career opportunities for our team members and additional value-added services for our clients, including Gregory FCA?ÇÖs pioneering AI-enhanced workflows and its creative center of excellence. We are bringing together the best in the business to usher in the next era of strategic communications for financial services companies.?Ç¥Both agencies have played significant leadership roles in the financial agency landscape, and their combined expertise positions the firm to handle large-scale clients and those operating in the more nuanced segments of the market. Companies within the wealth management, asset management, private equity, private credit, fintech, wealthtech, insurance, capital markets, banking, sustainable investing, and digital asset sectors will now have an even stronger lineup of experienced, qualified professionals to lead and execute their strategic marketing and communications programs.?Ç£BackBay and Gregory FCA are operating with a shared vision for the future, one that brings better strategic and tactical execution to our clients and career opportunities for our people,?Ç¥ says Anthony. ?Ç£We have led with the approach that industry-specific knowledge is the power we need to make an outsized impact for clients. Our combination with Bill and his team allows us to deliver on that promise to an even greater extent.?Ç¥In addition to the acquisition of BackBay, Gregory FCA has continued to fuel growth through the effective and responsible use of AI, establishing itself as a thought leader in AI's transformative impact on human communications. The firm's first-mover position in AI development, testing, training, and deployment, and its passion to share its conclusions and findings with the broader communications sector, has led to industry-wide recognition and increased demand for its PR and marketing services. Gregory FCA was recently named to the 2024 Observer Tech & AI Power Player List, honored as a 2023 PR News Top 100 Agency Elite, and was the first-ever recipient of the PRSA Pepperpot Award for AI.

Finn Partners, a global integrated marketing and communications agency, has announced significant leadership changes in the Asia Pacific region. These moves aim to solidify their presence and drive further growth.Previously a senior partner, Annouchka Behrmann has been instrumental in securing new clients for Finn's Hong Kong office since joining in 2023. Now, as the new Managing Partner, she'll lead the agency's Hong Kong operations. Her focus will be twofold:Strengthening Finn's position in key sectors like travel & tourism, hospitality, design, wellness, and luxury.Expanding service offerings, particularly in corporate communications and purpose-driven campaigns.Behrmann reports to Howard Solomon, the founding partner overseeing Asia for Finn Partners.Cathy Feliciano-Chon, previously a Managing Director, will now focus on propelling business development, brand strategy, and thought leadership initiatives across the entire Asia Pacific region. Since joining Finn in 2019, she's played a key role in establishing Finn as a leading global travel & tourism agency and managing a portfolio of prestigious brands.Feliciano-Chon reports to both Solomon and Peter Finn, the agency's CEO and founding managing partner."Cathy's expanded role strengthens our regional leadership and positions us for long-term, sustainable growth across APAC," said Solomon, highlighting her extensive experience, proven leadership, and vast network as invaluable assets.Peter Finn acknowledges the crucial role strong leadership plays in their phenomenal growth across Asia. He emphasizes the unparalleled market knowledge and exceptional client service offered by Cathy, Annouchka, and their fellow Asia Pacific leaders.Finn concludes by highlighting Finn Partners' advantages:Extensive regional presenceDeep expertise across various sectors"One Finn" model ?Çô providing integrated, full-service solutions with agility and collaborationThese strengths, according to Finn, position them perfectly as the go-to agency for clients seeking top-tier marketing communications solutions.

OpenAI has unveiled a major upgrade to its flagship generative AI technology, GPT-4o. This advanced model, freely available to all, offers enhanced human-like capabilities in understanding and responding to user prompts across voice, text, and image formats.A key highlight is the free availability of GPT-4o to all users. This move reflects OpenAI's commitment to democratizing access to advanced AI tools. Paid tiers will offer additional benefits, but the core functionality is freely available."We are thrilled to bring the power of GPT-4o to a wider audience. This advancement represents a significant leap forward in natural language processing and human-computer interaction" said  OpenAI CTO Mira MuratiThe launch comes amidst a period of rapid innovation in the AI field. OpenAI highlighted its focus on responsible development and collaboration within the industry.GPT-4o's New CapabilitiesThe new model boasts several improvements over its predecessor:Multimodal Understanding: GPT-4o can process information from voice recordings, text prompts, and images.Enhanced Conversation Skills: The model can engage in natural, human-like conversations, including humour and banter.Multilingual Support: GPT-4o sets new standards for understanding and responding in multiple languages.Advanced Problem-Solving: The model can assist with tasks like code generation and complex problem-solving.The FutureOpenAI showcased GPT-4o's capabilities through a live demonstration. The model interpreted user requests, translated languages, and even offered assistance with technical problems.While the focus remains on core AI advancements, OpenAI acknowledges the evolving landscape of generative AI applications. The company emphasized its commitment to responsible development and collaboration within the industry.The launch of GPT-4o underscores the rapid advancements in generative AI. OpenAI remains committed to responsible development and exploring new ways to leverage this technology for positive impact.

Arkreach, an India-based communications analytics product company that was launched in December 2023 is paving the way in the media world by revolutionising communication analysis with its new AI-powered feature for Contextual Sentiment Analysis. The feature, part of its 4 advanced modules, is developed using a Large Language Model (LLM) ?Çô which is trained on a staggering corpus of 60 million articles in over 50 languages ?Çô allows communication professionals worldwide to analyse contextual sentiment with unprecedented precision, focusing on specific entities like brand mentions, topics and key spokespeople across multiple languages. Contextual Sentiment plays a vital role in communications where it becomes imminent in recognizing the right tonality to plan and strategize for the issue of interest rather than to work with the basic sentiment of the article. With progress in AI-enabled analysis, this feature launched by Arkreachuses cutting-edge frameworks and tools to help communication analysts and planners across PR agencies and brands access this never-before-available insight. Leveraging its expansive database, available in diverse languages from across the globe ?Çô ranging from Sub-Saharan African Swahili, Somali, and Amharic, to Japanese, Cantonese, Kazakh, Gujarati, Marathi, and Hindi in Asia ?Çô the latest feature assists in collating accurate contextual insights. Commenting on the success of the new AI feature launch, Mr Vishal Sharma, Chief Strategy Officer at Arkreach, noted, ?Ç£In the digital era, communications metrics must evolve ?Çô the global PR software and media intelligence market is expected to be worth US$17,569 million by 2027, indicating a massive utilisation of the technology advancements. Arkreach's Contextual Sentiment Analysis, powered by Artificial Intelligence, seeks to revolutionise the field of communications analytics. This novel approach transcends conventional metrics by incorporating granular, context-specific understanding derived from News Consumption Behavioural Data.?Ç¥Commenting on the feature reveal, Mr Neeraj Kumar, Chief Technology Officer, Arkreach, noted, ?Ç£The significance of contextual sentiment analysis, for a long time, had remained secluded in the conventional tools. Arkreach gives you pinpoint-accurate sentiment on any issue, but that's not all. It also decodes the WHY behind the context. For clients, this translates into rocket-fueled communication strategies ?Ç¥Presently spanning diverse geographies across US, the UK, Australia, and Europe, Arkreach is poised to enhance its presence by concentrating on partnerships across India and Europe over the next 6 months.

Barabino & Partners, the corporate and financial communications giant in Italy, has joined forces with Excellera Advisory Group, a rising star in corporate affairs consulting backed by Xenon Private Equity.Launched in November 2022 through the merger of Cattaneo Zanetto Pomposo & Co. (public affairs) and Community (communications and reputation management), Excellera has been on a growth trajectory. Acquisitions of Public Affairs Advisors and Value Relations in the past year solidified their position. With ?é¼25 million in fees and a team of 170 spread across Rome, Milan, and Brussels, Excellera was already making waves.This acquisition more than doubles Excellera's size, reaching ?é¼60 million and solidifying their leadership in financial communications and M&A. Barabino, ranked number one in M&A communications for Italy (by deal volume) by Mergermarket last year, brings immense expertise.The acquisition expands Excellera's geographical footprint significantly. Barabino's international network adds offices in London, New York, Berlin, Munich, and Paris, complementing Excellera's Italian presence with a Genoa office.Founded in 1985 by Luca Barabino, the company will continue to operate under its own brand, just like other Excellera entities. Luca Barabino remains CEO, and Federico Steiner retains his role as General Manager. Both join the Excellera board."Excellera becomes a central hub for any global company seeking comprehensive support in Italy," says Paolo Zanetto, (pictured), CEO of Excellera. "We offer corporate, financial, brand, communication, and governance affairs expertise, along with reputation building. Our international network empowers us to guide Italian companies in their global expansion."Franco Prestigiacomo (Xenon founding partner) and Gianfranco Piras (Xenon partner and Excellera chairman) highlight the impressive growth: "In just over a year, Excellera has achieved a 14% revenue increase, welcomed valuable additions, and now takes a major step forward with Barabino & Partners."

Bacchus Agency, a creative communications and digital marketing agency, has launched its corporate and real estate division for the GCC region, led by Karim Geadah, a seasoned PR professional and newest addition to its team, who has joined as Associate Director.  Karim will work with GCC lead, Co-Founder and Senior Vice President, Fiona Wishart overseen by Bacchus Co-Founder Anouschka Menzies.Karim Geadah brings with him over 13 years of experience in public relations across a diverse range of sectors including real estate/property, fintech, finance, cryptocurrencies, luxury lifestyle, automotive, hospitality, aviation, and technology. Throughout his career, Karim has consistently demonstrated his ability to elevate the brands of his clients and deliver exceptional results.With a strong focus on the UAE and KSA markets, Karim's expertise lies in team and client management, business development, strategic planning, crisis communications, content development, media relations, and event management. His wealth of experience has been instrumental in managing high-profile clients over the last decade, including Savills Middle East, Binghatti, OMNIYAT, Uber, Careem, Astra Tech/Botim, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and Turkish Airlines, among others.From Bacchus?ÇÖ Dubai office, Karim will work with clients including Discovery Dunes, 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana, SHA Emirates and Lamar Development as well as key Giga projects in KSA.Bacchus Agency boasts a rich history of collaborating with real estate clients on a global scale. Leveraging their profound understanding of Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) behaviour and the agency's expansive global presence, Bacchus has secured prestigious projects such as The WELL Bay Harbor, an innovative urban wellness community set to debut in December 2024 in Miami in partnership with real estate developers Terra, and The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria, one of Manhattan's most eagerly anticipated residential developments on Park Avenue. Strengthening their portfolio, Bacchus maintains a longstanding relationship with British Land, further enhancing their roster of property clients, which include Chelsea Barracks by Qatari Diar, Lamar Development in Dubai, and the expansion of US-based design and hospitality brand RH into the UK and Europe.?Ç£We are delighted to introduce Bacchus' Corporate and Real Estate Division in the GCC," said Anouschka Menzies, Co-Founder of Bacchus Agency. "Karim's exceptional experience and deep understanding of the regional market make him the ideal candidate to spearhead this new department. We are confident that his leadership will further strengthen Bacchus' position as a trusted partner for brands seeking strategic communication solutions in the GCC."In his new role, Karim will be responsible for driving the local division's growth strategy, working alongside Global lead Andrea Covington, expanding Bacchus' footprint in the corporate and real estate sectors, and delivering innovative campaigns tailored to the unique needs of clients in these industries."I am honoured to lead Bacchus' Corporate and Real Estate Division and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead," said Karim Geadah. "The GCC region is witnessing rapid growth in the corporate and real estate sectors, and I look forward to leveraging Bacchus' expertise and resources to help our clients navigate this dynamic landscape and achieve their communication objectives."

Razor PR, the globally award-winning public relations and reputation management agency of M&C Saatchi Group South Africa, and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have agreed to a multi-year partnership to address the future skills needed by strategic communications graduates entering the working world.As part of this agreement, Razor will provide select graduate placement opportunities for top students in the Strategic Communication Honours programme. In addition, the agreement is geared toward helping enhance the University?ÇÖs Applied Strategic Communication Honours Module.?Ç£We all accept that we don?ÇÖt yet know the jobs we will need to deliver on in the future. But we can?ÇÖt wait to figure out what solutions we can co-create. We need to work together to reframe and refocus what the specific skill needs should be. At its heart, this is a partnership geared at closing the divide between the academic world and the working world as we get ready for this future,?Ç¥ said Dustin Chick, Partner & Managing Director at Razor PR. "We?ÇÖre very excited to be partnering with Razor PR. Working with our colleagues who are actively practicing in the world of communication means that we will help produce graduates who are fit for their future world of work when they leave university,?Ç¥ said UJ Associate Professor, Prof Rene Benecke.The formalisation of this successful partnership was marked today with the signing of the agreement at the office of the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof Kammila Naidoo. The agreement signifies a shared commitment to elevating the academic standard of the University and enhancing the strategic communication module.Under the terms of the MoU, both Razor and UJ will engage in academic cooperation and collaboration through internships, job shadowing, teaching and learning programmes, research and development initiatives, as well as student and lecturer programmes. This collaborative effort aims to make the module more practical and relevant to the dynamic PR/Marketing/Communication sector.The agreement reflects a dedication to establishing the University of Johannesburg as a centre of excellence for Strategic Communication, particularly in Southern Africa. The partnership seeks to institutionalise deep collaboration, ensuring that it transcends individual interactions and becomes an integral part of the strategic and operational framework of the module.Key strategic priorities outlined in this partnership include promoting the module to incorporate industry-focused insights and needs, fostering innovation and efficiency within the applied strategic communications programme, and providing additional resources to support the module's objectives."We are thrilled to formalise our partnership with the University of Johannesburg. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to advancing the field of strategic communications and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders," said Jacques Burger, Partner and Group CEO at the M&C Saatchi Group South Africa.The Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof Kammila Naidoo echoed this, saying, "This agreement represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the academic offerings and industry relevance of our applied strategic communication module. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration with Razor.?Ç¥

Echo Research, the leading global research agency specializing in reputation insight, benchmarking, and intelligence, announces its acquisition of Reputation Dividend, the foremost authority in valuing intangible reputational assets for listed companies worldwide. This strategic move strengthens Echo Research's ability to deliver comprehensive, board-ready reputational intelligence solutions to its global clientele.The Reputation Dividend analytical suite assesses an enterprise's intangible reputation value separately from operational and financial metrics, quantifying the external factors shaping this value. This empowers organizations to refine messaging priorities for maximum positive impact on shareholders.With over three decades of combined experience in reputation measurement and analysis, Echo Research and Reputation Dividend offer unmatched expertise and innovative solutions to navigate the intricate terrain of corporate reputation. The acquisition encompasses the name, IP, proprietary methodology, and extensive reputational data spanning more than 700 S&P and FTSE-listed companies since 2009.Sandra Macleod, CEO of Echo Research, stated, "We are delighted to welcome Reputation Dividend to the Echo Research family, alongside Britain?ÇÖs Most Admired Companies Study. This strategic addition aligns perfectly with our mission to equip organizations with actionable insights to fortify their reputation and drive business success. By integrating Reputation Dividend's expertise, we offer clients deeper insights and strategic guidance to manage and safeguard their reputation effectively."Ray Jordan, senior communications leader in the health care industry, said: "I have deployed Echo?ÇÖs reputation valuation analysis for many years in my role as past chief communications officer at Johnson & Johnson and Amgen . The insights helped me focus senior leadership and my corporate affairs teams on the most constructive messaging to bolster shareholder value, helping to drive measurable gains in reputation scores and market capitalization for each company during my tenure.?Ç¥Reputation Dividend pioneered the assessment of reputation's intangible value, which on average contributes 30% to market capitalization. Macleod added: "By integrating Reputation Dividend?ÇÖs methodologies with Echo Research's suite, we anticipate delivering even greater value to clients seeking to unlock their reputation capital."

New research from FTI Consulting's strategic communications segment exposes a critical vulnerability at the heart of many organisations' cybersecurity posture: a communication gap between CISOs and the C-suite.The report, titled "CISO Redefined: Navigating C-Suite Perceptions & Expectations," reveals a concerning disconnect. Despite cybersecurity rising in prominence as a business priority, many senior leaders believe their Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are failing to effectively communicate the true extent of cyber risk. This potential lack of trust between executives and security teams could leave organizations dangerously exposed to attack.Key Findings:Despite heightened awareness of cyber threats, a communication chasm exists between CISOs and C-suite executives.Some senior leaders perceive CISOs as downplaying risks or hesitating to raise critical vulnerabilities, hindering trust.Executives overwhelmingly support additional training programs to enhance CISO communication skills.FTI Consulting's Digital & Insights team surveyed n=787 C-suite executives and n=165 CISOs (previously surveyed) at organizations with 500+ employees across various industries.The Growing Disconnect:Increased cyber incidents (90% experienced an incident in the last year) lead to heightened scrutiny from all stakeholders.CISO decision-making power has grown significantly (87% of executives reported an increase), highlighting the evolving threat landscape.However, a third of executives perceive CISOs as downplaying risks or lacking transparency on vulnerabilities.Nearly half (40%) believe CISOs are not fully prepared to communicate with key stakeholders.Closing the Gap:Both CISOs and executives recognize the need for improved communication. Executives overwhelmingly support increased funding for CISO communications training (98%).

VML?ÇÖs Former Head of Corporate Communications, Rohini Saldanha has announced the launch of The PR Stop., a public relations firm that will provide comprehensive public relations and communications solutions to clients across various industries. Recognising the transformative power of strategic communication in shaping brand perception and driving organizational success, The PR Stop. Is a one-stop brand communications company that will enable businesses to effectively reach their target audiences and drive growth while carving a niche for themselves in a dynamic business landscape.With a strong track record of building individual and company brand identities, shaping brand narratives, and an extensive network of industry contacts, Founder Rohini Saldanha brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and capabilities to her new venture. Having built her career as a turnaround specialist in the media and communications industry, Rohini has held leadership positions in public relations and marketing communications for over 18 years earning the trust of clients in diverse verticals such as corporate, lifestyle, consumer, media, and entertainment. Her belief in the importance of brands connecting with consumers authentically drives her to utilize PR as a powerful tool for competitive advantage, emphasizing the need for evolving content strategies to stay relevant in changing consumer behaviours.On launching her own company, Rohini Saldanha said, ?Ç£Simply put it was the right time. I have been toying with the idea of officially launching my own company for a while now. The final nudge came when an editor friend of mine reached out to me regarding a client I represent and asked me to regularly update them with my client roster. That got me thinking that it was vital for me to promote my business as I was doing myself (and others) a disservice by lying low. I guess the initial hesitance came from a place of not wanting to put the cart before the horse. However, having had clients signed on as retainers with me since August 2023, I thought it was the opportune time to ?Çÿpull out all the stops?ÇÖ in making my company official as my business is expanding.?Ç¥Rohini further added, ?Ç£I was initially considering using my name as the company name but besides the fact that it looks pretentious, I wanted a brand name that was simple, easy to remember, and descriptive of my offerings as a business. My advice to most clients is that there should not be any conflict between you and the brand that you represent. You are the brand and over time you should become synonymous with it which is the ultimate litmus test. That is my intention with The PR Stop., where the work I have undertaken and will undertake for my clients reflects my craft, capabilities, and passion for strategic communications. So, whether you sign up with Rohini Saldanha or The PR Stop., it is essentially the same thing.?Ç¥The PR Stop. offers a range of services, including content development, media relations, crisis management, brand positioning, and strategic counsel. The company's current portfolio includes clients from various sectors including creative, branding, recruitment, and DE&I.

Ayatiworks Technologies, a frontrunner in digital marketing and strategic planning, is proud to announce its strategic expansion into Delhi NCR, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey. This expansion is complemented by a powerful partnership with Kreasense, a leader in branding, and Avance PR, renowned for its expertise in public relations. Together, they aim to redefine brand innovation and digital solutions beyond traditional marketing paradigms.Ayatiworks Technologies is a digital technology company that specializes in crafting impactful digital presences for brands. Known for its insightful planning and strategizing, Ayatiworks helps brands navigate the virtual marketing ecosystem effectively, creating distinctive digital properties that resonate with their target audience.Kreasense is a new-age branding company focused on crafting unique brand identities and narratives. With a blend of creativity and strategic insight, Kreasense helps brands establish a strong presence in today's competitive market landscape.Avance PR is a full-service PR firm with a focus on business communications and influencer connections. Serving a diverse range of clients, including early-stage startups and unicorn companies, Avance PR excels in delivering highly effective campaigns that drive traction and enhance brand reputation through earned media.Upendran Nandakumar, Founder of Ayatiworks Technologies, expressed his excitement about the expansion, stating, "Our new presence in Delhi NCR is more than just an expansion?Çöit's a strategic enhancement designed to tap into the commercial potential of this region. By bringing our top-tier digital marketing strategies here and partnering with Kreasense and Avance, we are set to redefine innovation and efficiency in brand communication."Balasubramanian, founder of Kreasense, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "Joining forces with Ayatiworks and Avance PR allows us to blend our creative branding expertise with cutting-edge digital marketing and strategic public relations. This synergy will undoubtedly lead to innovative solutions that will resonate deeply within the marketplace."Ritika Garg, Founder and CEO at Avance PR, also commented on the collaboration: "This alliance is a powerhouse of creativity and strategic acumen. We are thrilled to integrate our PR expertise with Ayatiworks?ÇÖ digital strategies and Kreasense?ÇÖs branding prowess to create dynamic, impactful campaigns that drive brand growth and visibility."The strategic alliance between Ayatiworks, Kreasense, and Avance PR is poised to provide unparalleled services in holistic brand development and intellectual property creation. By leveraging their collective expertise in public relations, brand solutions, and marketing techniques, the three companies are committed to delivering innovative solutions that redefine standards in digital marketing and brand strategy.As Ayatiworks begins its operations in Delhi, NCR, the company is enthusiastic about rolling out new initiatives that will demonstrate its enhanced capabilities. These initiatives are anticipated to set new benchmarks in the industry, underscoring the company?ÇÖs commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

The Fourth Angel, a London-based full-service integrated agency, and Planet Shine, a film production agency, have announced the launch of Planet Angel, a new venture designed to empower brands to tell impactful stories about their positive impact on people and the planet.Planet Angel combines The Fourth Angel's expertise in communications and consulting with Planet Shine's filmmaking prowess to offer brands a comprehensive package. Senior sustainability consultants will guide companies through their sustainability journey, while creative teams craft authentic narratives that align commercial goals with a brand's social and environmental vision. Through multi-channel storytelling and strategic reputation management, Planet Angel brings these positive actions to life."There's a lot of good work being done in sustainability, but there's also been a lot of confusion," said Angie Moxham, Founder of The Fourth Angel. "Customers deserve transparency. Planet Angel helps brands articulate an honest narrative and bring their positive journey to life.""Storytelling, especially through film, is the most effective way to connect with audiences," added Rachel McClelland, Founder of Planet Shine. "We have a window of opportunity to create a better world, and brands can be a powerful force for good."The Fourth Angel was founded in 2018 by Angie Moxham as a full-service PR and communications agency.Established by filmmaker Rachel McClelland, Planet Shine brings a wealth of experience creating films for major brands that prioritize the environment and nature.Through strategic guidance, creative storytelling, and multi-channel communication, Planet Angel helps brands connect with audiences who seek to make a difference.

1Crowd, an early-stage sector-agnostic VC fund investing and actively supporting early-stage ventures, has announced its partnership with Pitchfork Partners, a leading PR agency renowned for its strategic communication expertise. 1Crowd joins forces with Pitchfork Partners to enhance its brand visibility, effectively communicate the company?ÇÖs vision, and highlight the success stories within its diverse portfolio of start-ups. Leveraging Pitchfork Partners' proficiency in crafting compelling narratives and communication strategies, 1Crowd further solidifies its mission to amplify its impact and outreach. Sharing his views on the appointment, Jaideep Shergill, Co-founder, Pitchfork Partners, said, ?Ç£India?ÇÖs startup ecosystem is among the most revered globally, having shifted drastically in the last decade, creating more unicorns than ever. To keep the momentum going, venture capital funds like 1Crowd are instrumental in propelling the growth of promising startups in India through funding support and mentorship. We believe that our wealth of experience in financial services communications will enable us to foster meaningful discussions across various platforms.?Ç¥ Anup Kuruvilla, Co-founder, 1Crowd, said, "We are delighted to announce our partnership with Pitchfork Partners as our communications counsel. Together, we aim to strengthen our outreach, championing founders and their ventures, as they seek to build their dreams, while creating opportunities in a growing asset class for our community of limited partners. We are committed to nurturing and empowering these ventures, and this partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to fuel the growth and success of startups across the nation." Anil Gudibande, Co-Founder, 1Crowd, speaking about the onboarding, shared, ?Ç£We are excited to kickstart our journey with Pitchfork Partners. Through this partnership, we aim to broaden our reach in the ecosystem as we continue to create value by providing risk capital in the early stages of a startup?ÇÖs evolution, working closely with our limited partners and founders in building lasting organizations. With Pitchfork Partners by our side, we are deepening our impact and amplifying the stories of ingenuity, grit, resilience, and success that define the entrepreneurial spirit.?Ç¥