July Industry News of PR and Digital Firms
Gail Heimann will retire as global CEO of The Weber Shandwick Collective in November, succeeded by global president Susan Howe. Heimann retires after 28 years at the firm, with five as CEO, and led significant transformations during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her leadership saw the creation of The Weber Shandwick Collective (TWSC) and the firm’s recognition as Global Agency of the Year in 2023. Howe, with over 20 years at TWSC, has been global president for three years, overseeing the firm’s four regions and enhancing integration among partner agencies. She previously served as chief growth officer and chief collaboration officer, managing key client relationships with companies like AB InBev, Nestle, and Kellanova.
Finn Partners has acquired Claudine Colin Communication (CCC), a Paris-based PR agency specializing in arts and culture. CCC will operate as “Claudine Colin Communication, A Finn Partners Company” and collaborate with Finn’s arts division, led by Philippa Polskin. Founded in 1990, CCC represents major French arts organizations like Musée national Picasso-Paris and the Pinault Collection, with a client roster extending internationally. CCC will integrate into Finn Partners EMEA, boosting the division’s staff to 270 and annual fees to $27 million. This acquisition strengthens Finn’s global arts and culture PR market presence.
The Brandman Agency has added The Peninsula Hotels to its roster of luxury travel and lifestyle clients. Brandman will represent and promote The Peninsula’s 12 properties in major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Recently, The Peninsula Hotels debuted in Istanbul and will unveil a refurbished design for The Peninsula New York later this year. Carson Glover, SVP of brand marketing & communications, expressed confidence that this collaboration will strengthen The Peninsula Hotels’ position as a global hospitality leader in the North American market, especially with the brand’s exciting plans and new experiences for 2024 and beyond.
Axia Public Relations has been hired by Larks Entertainment, an “eatertainment” venue combining a cocktail bar, chef-inspired restaurant, games, and shuffleboard. Axia will help raise awareness of Larks’ concept and offerings through media coverage. Larks’ first location is in Fairview, TX, with plans to expand to cities including Nashville, Kansas City, San Antonio, San Diego, St. Petersburg, Boston, and Atlanta. Larks CEO and co-founder Curt Skallerup said Axia’s expertise in public relations will help them reach a broader audience and attract franchise opportunities in key markets.
