Shamal Communications joins leading global PR network ECCO

Shamal Communications, an independent, full service, public relations consultancy based in Dubai, has joined ECCO International Communications, a leading global public relations and marketing services network. 

London headquartered ECCO, has 32 independent, owner-managed agencies spread across more than 40 countries worldwide in continents including Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas. With representatives in key global markets, both ECCO and Shamal believe that the association has major benefits for both parties.

Christian Kollman, Chairman of ECCO commented: “Shamal’s strategic location in Dubai, which is the commercial and media hub for the Gulf region is ideal, especially for our members with clients looking to enter these dynamic emerging markets. Indeed, by extending our reach to the Gulf, we have the potential to offer new business opportunities to every agency in our network.”

“Also, the timing couldn’t be better. Many companies are looking for new markets, especially with the ongoing US trade tensions with China, France, Germany and the rest of the EU, not to mention the potential disruption that Brexit could cause,” he added. 

Established in 2004, by co-founders and managing partners Steven Jones and Nathalie Visele, Shamal is a bespoke boutique agency with a strong English and Arabic media presence. Shamal manages an extensive client portfolio across hospitality and tourism, real estate, pharmaceuticals, facilities management, leisure, retail, energy and sustainability sectors. 

James Lakie, General Manager, Shamal Communications, said: “We had been reviewing a number of different networks for a while, but what struck us most about ECCO was their vision and mission, which are in line with our own philosophy of how a progressive and inclusive global network should operate.

“Joining a large organisation with an excellent reputation will also provide our clients with direct support in some of the largest and most diverse markets around the world, helping them to improve their brand awareness and reputation overseas.

“ECCO also organises regular training courses as well as two international conferences a year, which offers Shamal two distinct advantages. Firstly, we’ll be at the cutting edge of the latest industry trends and international best practice. And secondly, we will be able to network face-to-face with our associates from around the world identifying market opportunities,” added Lakie.