Challenge: TRC is a global consulting, engineering, and construction management firm that provides environmentally focused and digitally powered solutions. The firm had recently acquired a regional engineering firm with a strong presence in Virginia and North Carolina. The acquired firm, Draper Aden Associates, had a 50-year history in the region and high brand awareness. After the initial merger announcement, TRC recognized the need to reinforce its new presence and differentiators. The firm wanted to highlight the new services and tools now available while emphasizing a commitment to existing clients and communities.

Solution: TRC engaged with Gray Ryan Communications to create a strategic PR campaign that would support the TRC brand and highlight the work of the firm’s offices in Virginia and North Carolina. Gray Ryan developed a campaign that would focus on the expertise in these offices and target industries that were business development priorities for the firm. The campaign included a wide array of tactics with media relations as a central component. Highlighting talent through media relations and thought leadership was key.

Bottom Line: The campaign was a huge success with 10 media placements secured within a year of the acquisition. Media coverage included local, regional, and national outlets with a focus on TRC’s newly acquired offices. Thought leadership was developed for key practice areas, including site development and infrastructure. The campaign also targeted trade media that TRC’s clients followed in the higher education, hospitality, and municipal sectors, including Facilities Manager, Hotel Business, and ENR. TRC’s offices in Virginia and North Carolina continued to grow and secure more client work.