derekPR Marks 20 Years of Impactful Storytelling with Renewed Focus on Philanthropy

Celebrating 20 Years of Transformative Public Relations

As derekPR commemorates its milestone 20th anniversary, founder Derek Farley is steering the agency toward a renewed emphasis on corporate philanthropy. This transition marks not only a celebration of past successes but also a significant shift in the agency's focus. Farley's statement captures the essence of this journey: "This is about getting back to the awe and wonder of being a new business, where every day is an adventure yet every challenge is taken with the confidence and wisdom of a legacy agency."

A Legacy of Excellence

Initially launched as DFPR, the agency originally carved out its niche in the competitive restaurant ecosystem. Over the years, it garnered numerous accolades by delivering exceptional public relations services primarily to restaurant brands. The rebranding to 150PR was a natural evolution that highlighted the agency's rich experience and vast portfolio of accomplishments.

The turning point in Farley's career came in July 2006 when he secured the national account for TGI Fridays. This partnership unleashed a wave of PR success that would define the agency's future. Under Farley's direction, TGI Fridays achieved record highs across various performance metrics, setting the stage for an enduring reputation in the industry.

Expanding the Vision

By 2010, Farley reunited with Tom Beyer, leading to collaborations with major players like Applebee's and UFC Gym. The duo achieved unprecedented results, reinforcing the idea that public relations can transcend traditional boundaries.

A particularly innovative initiative was the implementation of a corporate philanthropy program for Safe Step Walk-In Tub Company in 2017, aptly named Safe Step Cares. This program garnered extensive media coverage, focusing on the transformative impact of their products on the lives of customers. Farley emphasizes, "With that program, we proved that by putting the greater good first, all else is elevated, especially the bottom line."

For six years, Safe Step Cares dominated news cycles, showcasing how proactive corporate citizenship can lead to real-life improvements in health and well-being. The recognition received by the program not only spotlighted the company's commitment to philanthropy but also highlighted the immense potential for public relations to drive meaningful change.

The Future of derekPR

Now, as derekPR embarks on the next 20 years, Farley's inspiration is clear: to utilize the agency’s influence and skills to create initiatives that uplift communities and individuals alike. "Giving back is always good, but changing lives is what really matters," he states, highlighting the agency’s strategic pivot towards a more philanthropic mission.

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, derekPR is set to broaden its horizons, embracing new challenges while remaining rooted in its core values. With a focus on integrating philanthropy into its PR strategies, Farley aims to teach clients how adopting a legacy of giving can provide them with a competitive edge. In summary, derekPR isn't just celebrating its past but is committed to paving new paths toward positive societal impacts.

As we watch this agency evolve, the story of derekPR serves as a reminder that successful public relations is about more than just craft; it is about fostering connections that lead to a better world for all.