Media Room : Newsroom

Jeremy Baka op-ed challenges PR industry to be fearless

Cohn & Wolfe’s Chief Creative Catalyst, Jeremy Baka, threw down the creative gauntlet in the September issue of PRWeek. In a provocative op-ed, Baka challenges the PR industry to raise its creative game, writing that it has been “hit hard by a deadly creativity-killing disease—fear.” While surveys cite creativity as the most vital of qualities, and “big ideas” are asked for incessantly, "safe and sound" is often what clients either get or ultimately accept. Says Baka, “Leading requires that we take risks.”

“Crises prompt companies to increase focus on the brand” - PRWeek

In its September issue, PRWeek examines how companies are increasingly looking to corporate branding and reputation management in the wake of several high profile crises over the last 18 months. The article features analysis from Michael Bayer, U.S. Corporate Practice Leader for Cohn & Wolfe, as well new client, Lincoln Financial. Bayer explains that corporate America has a much more sophisticated understanding of reputation as an asset, and that social media has become the “biggest player for reputation management and corporate brand."
"PR firms still seek creative edge in social media efforts" - PRWeek

The rise of social media has opened doors for PR agencies. But to maximize the opportunity, better or new capabilities are in order. In the September issue of PRWeek, Chad Latz, Cohn & Wolfe’s Global Digital Practice Leader, discusses the trend and how Cohn & Wolfe is positioning itself in the new communications landscape.
Cohn & Wolfe featured in examination of Iceland PR landscape

As part of their “Focus on…” series, PRWeek UK took a closer look at the PR industry and opportunity in Iceland. Their primary guide was Guðjón Pálsson, country manager for Cohn & Wolfe Iceland and author of the 2006 WPP report ‘The PR Opportunity in Iceland.’
Cohn & Wolfe takes a page from Hollywood to make a bold break

New York – September 1, 2010 – In a move designed to illustrate its broad range communications offerings beyond traditional PR, Cohn & Wolfe today launched a new website featuring Hollywood-style stop-motion animation video; sharp, ad-style copy; and a singular tone of voice to articulate its unconventional communications strategies, bold programming and “respectfully irreverent” style.
Cohn & Wolfe's Chad Latz named to PRWeek's "Top 40 Under 40"

New York – August 1, 2010 – Chad Latz, President of Cohn & Wolfe’s Global Digital Practice, has been named to PRWeek’s “Top 40 Under 40,” an annual ranking of the communications industry’s 40 most accomplished PR professionals under the age of 40. The list includes leaders and emerging stars from the biggest agencies and corporations in the world. Chad’s selection marks the third consecutive year Cohn & Wolfe has been represented on the list.
Lincoln Financial Group selects Cohn & Wolfe as communications partner

New York – July 23, 2010 – Lincoln Financial Group announced today that it has engaged Cohn & Wolfe, a leading global communications agency, to support their communications efforts including branding, corporate positioning and executive thought leadership.  The appointment follows a four-stage selection process that included presentations to Lincoln’s CMO, CEO and leadership team. 
LBG appoints 'Team Y&R' for Insurance and Scotland brief

London – 21 July 2010 – Lloyds Banking Group has appointed Cohn & Wolfe and Burson Marstellar to handle its wide-ranging brief for Insurance and Scotland. The remit includes both media relations and public affairs.
Geoff Beattie discusses BP's response to the gulf crisis in PRWeek podcast

In an interview with PRWeek UK’s James Woodroof, Cohn & Wolfe’s Global Corporate Practice Leader, Geoff Beattie, along with Ralph Jackson, Director of Lansons Communications, discuss what the oil giant could have done to possibly mitigate the impact the spill has had on its reputation, and a look at what its future might look like.
Survey identifies varied green beliefs and behaviors among global consumers

Monterey, CA – June 8, 2010 – One of the largest global surveys to date on consumer perceptions of green brands and corporate environmental behavior reveals global differences about the top environmental concerns among consumers. While climate change is important across most countries, 30 percent of Brazilians and 26 percent of Indians cite deforestation as the top issue, and in Australia, 68 percent of consumers say it’s important that companies manage water efficiently.

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