WPP is set to merge BCW and Hill & Knowlton, creating a dominant $1 billion PR entity named Burson, potentially becoming the industry’s largest player. The consolidation, effective from July 1, follows BCW’s creation five years ago through the Burson-Marsteller and Cohn & Wolfe merger. Hill & Knowlton will maintain a distinct brand within Burson, serving specific global clients to avoid conflicts. BCW’s CEO, Corey duBrowa, becomes Burson’s global CEO, and AnnaMaria DeSalva, H&K’s global chairman, assumes the role of global chairman. While specific leadership appointments are pending, job losses are not ruled out. The merged entity aims to minimize job impact while becoming a formidable organization, potentially surpassing Edelman in industry ranking.
Global self-service ticketing platform Eventbrite has chosen Weber Shandwick as its U.S. communications agency of record, a partnership set to continue through the year’s end. Weber will assist Eventbrite in brand evolution, corporate support, and leadership backing, focusing on global events. Led by Weber’s president for the West, Jordan Rittenberry, the account team’s size is yet to be determined. The collaboration aims to reposition Eventbrite as an essential marketplace for live experiences, emphasizing user-friendly discovery. The move comes amid Eventbrite’s Q3 revenue rise to $81.5 million, with a net loss reduction, signaling a pivotal point for the platform in 2024.
The HOW Agency, 5WPR’s digital arm, celebrates winning the Gold in the 2024 AVA Digital Awards for its outstanding work with client David’s Vacation Club Rentals (DVCR). Serving as DVCR’s digital agency partner, HOW achieved remarkable success, significantly boosting bookings and revenue through paid social campaigns. The collaboration resulted in a 55% increase in outbound click-through rates, employing a full-funnel approach to connect with high-intent users. Paul Miser, EVP and Group Director of HOW, expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the team’s dedication and innovation in strengthening their partnership with DVCR. AVA Digital Awards, sponsored by AMCP, acknowledges excellence in digital communication evolution.
Hemsworth has been appointed as the U.S. PR agency of record for the Egyptian Tourism Authority, partnering with international communications agency mc Group. The collaboration aims to enhance media exposure for Egypt in the U.S. throughout 2024. Hemsworth will devise and implement a strategic plan, disseminating timely destination updates to key media, organizing group press trips, and engaging influencers for social media campaigns. Samantha Jacobs, founder and president of Hemsworth, expressed the commitment to inspiring travel to Egypt by highlighting its rich history, vibrant culture, and new attractions, as well as significant investments to enhance offerings for global travelers.
