Edelman renews global partnership with Shell
By Ibidunni Banjoko
Edelman, a prominent global public relations firm, has renewed its partnership with Shell, one of the world’s leading oil companies. This reappointment follows a competitive tender process, reaffirming Edelman’s role as Shell’s global provider of PR services.
A Shell spokesperson confirmed the renewal, stating, “We can confirm that, following a competitive tender process, Edelman has been reappointed as global provider of public relations services to Shell.” Edelman did not return requests for comment when this story went live. The account is one of Edelman’s most significant, estimated to be in the eight-figure range.
Edelman’s renewed partnership with Shell extends a relationship that has lasted over a decade. This collaboration has positioned Edelman as a primary target for climate activists who urge the PR industry to disassociate from fossil fuel clients. The campaign against Edelman’s involvement with Shell has been notably led by Clean Creatives, an advocacy group within the PR and advertising industry.
Clean Creatives has been at the forefront of efforts to persuade agencies to cut ties with fossil fuel companies. During the 2022 Climate Week, the group intensified its campaign by plastering posters across parts of lower Manhattan. These posters specifically called on agencies, with Edelman being a primary focus, to end their relationships with fossil fuel clients.
Despite this ongoing pressure, Edelman’s reappointment by Shell underscores the firm’s continued commitment to its long-term client.
Edelman’s decision to maintain its partnership with Shell highlights the broader debate within the PR industry regarding ethical considerations and the role of public relations in supporting clients from controversial sectors. As climate change concerns intensify, PR firms are increasingly scrutinized for their client choices and the potential impact of their work on environmental issues.
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