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Franco, a Detroit-based integrated communications agency, introduces three AI enablement service offerings designed to help marketing and communications teams navigate brand visibility challenges, optimize workflows and build AI-ready systems. Franco’s SEO/AIO Audit will analyze how brands appear in both traditional search and AI-generated results, identifying gaps between intended messaging and what AI models are surfacing. Its AI Readiness Workshop will work with marketing and communications teams to evaluate workflows, determine where AI can add value and establish clear guidelines for use. The agency also offers ongoing AI consulting, which includes implementation guidance, training and troubleshooting. “Over the past two years, we’ve taken a disciplined, informed approach to AI—investing in education, testing real applications and building frameworks before going to market,” said Franco CMO Nikki Little. “Our commitment to client care, accountability and innovation ensures these offerings are implemented effectively and ethically for our partners.”
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Bolden Consulting, which partners with asset managers and financial organizations to build brand clarity, modern digital infrastructure and long-term marketing foundations, launches in Boston. The firm is led by Huang Totten, who has been chief product at financial services company Paralel since 2021, and former Brown Brothers Harriman managing director Sukesh Shetty. The firm’s launch is supported by Paralel, which will continue partnering with Bolden. Bolden will also be working with UK-based design agency O Street. The new firm’s services include brand management, web design and development, digital marketing, and SEO/GEO optimization. “Bolden was created to help financial organizations build digital foundations that last,” said Totten. “I’ve seen how transformative it can be when firms have thoughtfully designed and compliant digital infrastructure.”
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The Echo Awards, a new program recognizing journalists whose work amplifies understanding of government, policy and the business of the public sector, is launched by a coalition of marketing, communications and industry organizations serving the public sector. The coalition includes W2 Communications, Focused Image, RMK Productions, Boscobel Marketing Communications, Birdsong Partners, Sage Communications, Merritt Group, REQ, Yes& Agency and Carahsoft. “The Echo Awards are about honoring the dedication, rigor, and impact of reporters who ensure that government and industry remain transparent, innovative, and responsive,” said W2 Communications principal and co-founder Evan Weisel. The call for nominations will remain open through February 13, 2026. Finalists will be determined by public voting throughout March and April, leading up to the inaugural Echo Awards Gala on June 11, 2026, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
Brunner, a Pittsburgh-based integrated marketing agency, acquires AdSkate, an AI-powered creative analytics and marketing intelligence platform that helps brands and agencies optimize advertising performance... Augustine Agency launches Flavor Theory, a foodservice marketing practice aimed at helping restaurants, food manufacturers, distributors and institutional dining organizations grow their brands and businesses... The Acceleration Community of Companies releases a report finding that almost half (49 percent) of Gen Z sports fans say they have become interested in a new sport or athlete because of fan-created content or something entirely outside the sport. 
VPE Communications, which helps organizations authentically connect with diverse audiences, celebrates 38 years in business and announces a new ownership structure... Praytell expands into the Asian market with the opening of a new office in Singapore... The International Public Relations Network unveils a new visual identity and redesigned website. 
SourceCode Communications launches SourceCode Germany, establishing the agency's first office in continental Europe... Clario Group acquires Ted Miller Group, a Miami-founded agency focused on clients in the technology, travel & leisure and financial services sectors... Global Situation Room’s Global Risk Advisory Council is hosting a July 23 webinar that will go over the results of its new Reputation Risk Index.
Havas acquires MUT, a Barcelona-based firm focused on experiential marketing and sustainable events... IPREX lauches its AI Task Force...D S Simon Media, one of the first companies to produce a satellite media tour, celebrates its 40th anniversary... Washington Women in Public Relations is sponsoring an event that shows communications pros who work with associations how they can get their messages across clearly, credibly and courageously. “How Associations Lead with Strategic Storytelling,” at 6 p.m. on July 16.
TEAM LEWIS starts up its AI Practice... Thunderly launches a year-long storytelling campaign focused on how franchising can provide a pathway to business ownership... JIN, a European communications consulting group, introduces "AI Campaigning", a corporate offering designed to model and anticipate stakeholder behavior.
