The CIPR and PRCA have led meetings to explore how to achieve cost-savings, collaboration and co-operation. Well-placed sources told PRWeek the two bodies had also explored the possibility of a merger.
CIPR president Kevin Taylor said: 'In the current financial climate, we are sometimes competing for the same share of budget. It makes sense to work together.'
But he added: 'It's too soon to talk about a merger.'
PRCA director general Francis Ingham confirmed the two bodies were 'talking about ways we can sensibly co-operate'. But he stressed: 'Talk about a merger is wide of the mark.'