Netscape Communications, the world’s largest supplier of internet
browser software, has appointed a new marketing communications director,
who has called a review of its UK PR account.
Suzanne Burnip replaces Sam Settyas marketing communications director
and will preside over a review of its PR strategy. Setty has now left
Netscape. Burnip was previously marketing communications manager at
Actra.
A Plus, Bite Communications and Firefly have been asked to pitch for the
UK account, now held by Words Etc.
The review is the second this year at Netscape after Words Etc replaced
Marbles last April. Netscape is thought to be increasing its PR activity
and wants the appointed agency to emphasise the full range of its
internet services. It is best known for its Navigator browser product
but also sells intranet and electronic commerce solutions.
Netscape is currently battling with Microsoft for leadership of the
browser market. The rivalry has become increasingly bitter following
allegations from the US Justice Department that Microsoft threatened not
to install Windows 95 on machines using Netscape browser software.
Netscape’s share of the browser market has fallen from 80 per cent in
1995 to 62 per cent in 1996. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer now has a 34
per cent share. However, Netscape’s sales in 1996 exceeded pounds 200
million, an increase of 77 per cent on 1995.
