Grayling moves into Iran with PGt partnership

International communications network Grayling has become the latest global group to enter the Iranian market through a deal with a local agency.

The London-headquartered company has signed an agreement with PGt Advertising to work together on integrated communications, public affairs, design, and market development services in Iran.

Both companies have strong portfolios working in industries such as public affairs, government procurement and crisis communications in their respective territories.

The partnership will see the extension of the Tehran-based agency’s global network while allowing Grayling access to PGt’s clients and capabilities in Iran.

“The signing of this affiliation agreement between PGt Advertising and Grayling is another step in the right direction for us and we are extraordinarily excited to be accepted into such a successful global communications network,” said Sam Cordier, MD of PGt. “As Iran opens up its arms to the world, we are proud to be able to offer our clients a truly integrated international communications reach and quality of service.”

“We welcome PGt Advertising into the Grayling network as Iran is an increasingly important market for many of our internationally focused clients. It is vital to have a partner that we can trust and PGt Advertising has a proven track record of delivering quality communications.” said Jonathan Shillington, MD of Middle East, of Grayling. “This affiliation will further enhance our global network and ability to provide a unique mix of public relations, public affairs, digital and consumer marketing, to create measurable advantage for our clients.”

Grayling’s move follows that of global holding giant WPP, which recently gained its first foothold in the emerging market with a partnership between its research company Kantar and Rahbar Bazaar Market Research Institute.

The previous year saw Dentsu Aegis enter the market by forming its own Tehran agency Carat-ICA through a partnership with local agency ICA.

Grayling has more thab 30 years’ experience in the META region with offices in Dubai, Doha, Muscat, Istanbul, Lagos and Nairobi.