AKCG Expands Its Crisis Communications Expertise Through Acquisition of Hennes Communications

In a strategic move to bolster its crisis communications services, AKCG – Public Relations Counselors has acquired Hennes Communications, a notable agency based in Cleveland focused on crisis management. Founded in 1982 and headquartered in the Greater Philadelphia Region, AKCG aims to enhance its offerings and extend its reach within the crisis communications sector. This acquisition marks a crucial step for both companies, as they join forces to offer a more comprehensive suite of services to their clientele.

Hennes Communications was established by Bruce Hennes in 1989 and has built a strong reputation over four decades for its crisis response services and media training solutions. This merger aligns with AKCG’s commitment to delivering impactful results to organizations facing critical situations. Chris Lukach, the CEO of AKCG, emphasizes that, "Reputation management is a vital function in today's business landscape, and integrating the talented team from Hennes will significantly enhance our capabilities."

The merger enables the combined firms to provide a diverse range of services including crisis planning, crisis management, and spokesperson training, thus presenting a united front to help clients navigate the complexities of public perception during sensitive incidents.

Bruce Hennes expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating that finding the right partner was crucial during their succession planning process. He noted, "Partnering with a larger agency like AKCG benefits not only our existing clients but also future clients who may require assistance during urgent crisis situations. Our discussions with the AKCG team affirmed their growth trajectory and commitment, making it clear that they were the ideal fit to continue the Hennes legacy."

This partnership comes at a time when AKCG is rapidly expanding its influence, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors. Since 2021, the firm has tripled in size and boasts a team of over 20 professionals across its offices in prominent regions including Greater Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Cleveland.

AKCG’s newly formed Hennes division aims to leverage the rich history and expertise of Hennes Communications to provide unparalleled crisis management services. Their philosophy, that “the court of public opinion is always in session,” reflects their proactive approach to crisis communications, ensuring that organizations are prepared for any challenges they face.

The firm is also recognized nationally for its efforts in managing reputational threats and complex issues, with the Hennes division being one of only 20 firms ranked in the Crisis PR category by Chambers and Partners. This merger not only solidifies AKCG's status as a leader in crisis communications but also enhances the breadth of services available to its clients across different sectors such as government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations.

As AKCG continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to build, preserve, and restore positive reputations. The firm invites those interested in exploring their services to visit their website at www.AKCG.com for further information about their crisis management and public relations offerings.

This significant acquisition reflects a broader trend within the public relations industry where agencies seek to merge strengths to better serve client needs, particularly in the realm of reputation management and crisis preparedness. This approach not only enhances service capabilities but also strengthens market positions amidst the evolving landscape of communication challenges.

Overall, this acquisition represents a pivotal moment not just for AKCG and Hennes Communications, but for clients and organizations navigating the increasingly complex public relations environment. With this merger, AKCG is well-positioned to tackle future challenges and continue to provide expert guidance in crisis situations, making a significant impact in the field of crisis communications.