ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Tuesday, February 20, 1996 TAG: 9602200055
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: B6 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: MEGAN SCHNABEL
The Packett Group, a Roanoke advertising agency, said Monday it has formed a public relations division to match client demand for related marketing strategies.
In the past, the agency did public relations work for clients on a case-by-case basis, said Bill Thomasson, executive vice president of the agency. But as clients have begun streamlining their marketing plans, he said, agencies nationwide have recognized the benefits of offering both advertising, which sells products, and public relations, which establishes a client's reputation in the marketplace.
"You can choose to let the marketplace, with all its rumors and innuendo, create your image for you," Thomasson said, "or you can at least help shape your image."
Linda Holsinger, former vice president of marketing and communications at United Way of Roanoke Valley Inc., will head the new division. She joined Packett in December.
The new division will offer services including publicity and media relations, publication services, special events coordination, employee communication, community relations and crisis communication.
LENGTH: Short : 32 lines ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO: headshot of Holsingerby CNB