 Imad Lahad |
APCO Worldwide has launched the “APCO AI Comms Lab,” an innovation center which utilizes artificial intelligence-driven solutions to build and protect the reputations of major global brands, governments and organizations. The lab originates from APCO’s Dubai office, with the innovation center integrated into other offices throughout the firm’s global network, and is led by Imad Lahad, senior director and co-lead of APCO’s global digital practice. It is intended to help clients fast-track AI solutions and technologies that use a data-driven scientific approach. “The lab is powered by communications and technology experts who are tapping into a demand for disruptive AI technologies,” said Lahad. “Currently, it is focusing on using AI to revolutionize the way we think about content optimization, storytelling, digital and social media optimization, multimedia and creative, crisis management, media monitoring and digital listening.”
 Rick French |
French/West/Vaughan chairman and CEO Rick French has teamed up with Patrick Shanahan, founder and president of Denim Buffalo Films, to form Prix Productions. The company, which will be headquartered in downtown Raleigh with an office in Los Angeles, will focus on the acquisition, development and production of feature films and documentaries. French will serve as managing partner, focusing on IP acquisition, financing and production. Shanahan, based in L.A., will oversee writing and directing. The new imprint currently has two independent projects that are on fast-track production schedules: Clear Lake, a dramatic feature centered around Buddy Holly; and a documentary on the world hunger crisis and the United Nations’ goal of feeding the world by 2030.
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Mobile PR network Spry has launched a new version of its Spry Client app that will work on Android devices as well as on the iOS devices than ran the earlier version. Spry’s on-demand platform matches client projects with talent in the Spry workforce, a network of vetted writers, marketers and communicators. The algorithm considers experience, expertise and even personal passions to match up clients with suppliers. Spry CEO and founder Angie Schneider says that goal of the app is “to make high-quality content and public relations services accessible to as many businesses as possible."
DJE Holdings, parent of Edelman and Zeno, launches RUTH as an independent shop named after Ruth Edelman, mental health advocate, wife and longtime business partner of Dan Edelman.
New York City PR firms make up the largest slice of O'Dwyer's 147 firm overall ranking with 33 of 40 in the New York/New Jersey area either calling Manhattan their home or having a presence there.
Subject Matter+Kivvit, which joined forces in May, has rebranded as Avoq, an integrated shop with more than 200 professionals in Washington, New York, Asbury Park (NJ), Miami and Chicago.
While PR pros stationed at in-house comms. teams and those working for agencies share many of the same objectives, they also have markedly different top priorities, according to a recent report.
Edelman is cutting 240 employees or about four percent of its workforce to cope with the cooling down of the PR sector, according to a memo from CEO Richard Edelman.
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