MRPA merges with Kinman to form new PR firm

TWO leading Dublin-based PR firms have announced a merger that will catapult the enlarged business into the top three in the Irish market.

MRPA Consultants and Kinman Public Relations have joined to become MRPA Kinman Communications. The combined firm will employ 15 people and have annual revenues of around €2 million.

Ownership of the company will be split equally between MRPA founders Ray Gordon and Stephen O’Byrnes and Kinman principals Laurie Mannix and Tim Kinsella.

The new firm represents some of Ireland’s highest-profile businesses in the financial services, healthcare, information technology and professional services.

It will provide advice on media relations and political lobbying and services such as crisis management, marketing support and assistance in public information campaigns.

“This deal creates one of the strongest and most experienced teams of corporate PR professionals in the country,” said Mr Gordon.

“Our two companies share a similar outlook with a strong focus on client service and results. This deal will enable us to broaden the services and resources we have in place for existing clients while also positioning us to grow our business further.”

Ms Mannix said the Irish PR industry was going through a period of significant change. “We believe the time is now ripe for a younger, more dynamic and service-focussed firm to take a leading role in the sector and we believe we are perfectly positioned to fill that role,” she said.

Kinman clients include AIB life assurance subsidiary Ark Life, the American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland, electricity supplier Energia, IT leader Sun Microsystems and drug giant Wyeth.

MRPA’s client list features Irish Life & Permanent, Budget Travel, investment specialists Coyle Hamilton Willis and technology giant 3M.