Earlier in January we announced that Ketchum has increased its investment to a majority position in its operations in Greater China. The move provides an even greater presence for our firm in the Asian market. Ketchum first entered Greater China in 1988 through a partnership with Newscan and shortly thereafter began operating as Ketchum Newscan. Newscan founders Kenneth Chu and Betty Lo will continue as significant equity partners and will retain their roles as CEO and President respectively, leading the Greater China region for Ketchum.

Ketchum’s decision to assume a greater ownership position in its Greater China operations was driven by continuously increasing client demand, the operation’s award-winning work, and its excellent growth and operational performance. It also advances Ketchum’s overall strategy to support clients in major global media and commercial markets. In 2010, Ketchum completed its merger with Pleon in Europe to form Ketchum Pleon, the industry’s largest, most diversified consultancy in the region. It also acquired Maslov PR in Russia, established a joint venture in the Middle East and North Africa called Ketchum Raad Middle East and established a new exclusive affiliate relationship in South Korea with local market leader Prain.

“Our investment in this business allows us to offer our clients both extraordinary on-the-ground capabilities and even stronger linkage with one of the most seamless, integrated agency networks in public relations,” said Ray Kotcher, Senior Partner and CEO, Ketchum.

“The enormous potential in Greater China leads to a strong demand for communications services from global companies operating in the region and Chinese companies looking at new markets. This is an ideal time to reach this agreement,” said Chu. “We are eager to expand our partnership with Ketchum and maximize opportunities for our clients.”