Anheuser-Busch hands entire consumer PR to Frank

The move means the end of its three-strong consumer 'informal roster', which also included Consolidated Communications and Shine Communications.

Anheuser-Busch Europe PR and comms manager Michelle Norman said the trio of agencies had worked for the company on a project basis over the past two years, but it had decided to use just one retained agency.

Norman and Frank both declined to comment on fees, but industry sources put the value of consumer work for the brewer's UK portfolio – which includes Bud Ice, Michelob and Chinese brand Harbin – at around £250,000 a year.

A raft of Anheuser-Busch activity is being planned for next month, including a 'Bud Bucks' prize auction campaign and promotions for Harbin around the Chinese new year.

Anheuser-Busch has also hired the newly formed Trimedia Harrison Cowleyfor press office and trade PR duties – an account Consolidated held for six years. Consolidated said it declined to repitch.