NEWS: Zanussi talks of new PR projects

Zanussi, the Electrolux-owned white goods giant, is in talks with

consumer agencies over new public relations projects.

The Newbury-based company, which has a total PR budget of around pounds

510,000, is understood to have approached The Quentin Bell Organisation

and Consolidated Communications.

Zanussi marketing director Ian Symes declined to commented further but

did say that the review will not affect its relationship with Garnett

Keeler PR.

The company has employed the Surbiton-based PR agency to execute a

series of projects over the past two years.

Briefs executed by the firm include providing public relations support

for Zanussi’s sponsorship of the British bob sleigh team.

Garnett Keeler has also been providing ‘general media relations cover’

while Zanussi’s press officer is on maternity leave.

Zanussi has a PR department of two, a press officer and communications

manager David Franks, which works alongside a marketing team of 11.

Symes commented on the review: ‘We are always in contact with a number

of creative consultancies.’

‘Public relations is a core part of our activity,’ he added. ‘We are

evaluating a number of opportunities.’

Last year Zanussi allocated six per cent of its pounds 8,500,000

marketing budget to PR.