PR evolved with a clear focus on innovation and relevance in 2024: Valerie Pinto

As we conclude another year, it is essential to reflect on the key developments, challenges, and achievements that have shaped different sectors throughout the past 12 months. The year 2024 has been marked by dynamic shifts, rapid innovation, and the continued adaptation to both external factors and emerging trends.

Adgully’s annual feature – REWIND – revisits different sectors and identifies the key developments as well gauges the long-term impacts of those developments. We speak to a cross-section of industry leaders to bring a 360-degree view of the industry landscape, the growth trends, financial performance, disruptions, innovations, challenges and more.

In this Rewind 2024 article, Valerie Pinto, CEO, Weber Shandwick India, shares insights on how 2024 has unfolded for the Indian economy and the PR industry, along with the trends that shaped the industry this year. She also discusses how Weber Shandwick India performed during 2024.

Overview of the PR industry and Indian economy in 2024

This year has been a year of change and resilience. Despite global economic challenges, India showed incredible strength and grew in the IT, manufacturing, construction, and agriculture sectors, with increased domestic consumption and policy reforms driving growth.

For the PR industry, this year reminded us how crucial our role is in shaping trust and delivering authentic stories. We’ve seen clients lean on us not just for visibility but for guidance in navigating a world that’s constantly evolving. It highlighted the power of communications to not only shape narratives but also drive real impact, purpose, and reputation.

Key trends and developments

We’ve seen PR evolve with a clear focus on innovation and relevance. Earned media has emerged stronger than ever, as audiences sought more genuine and relatable content. AI has been a game-changer for us – whether it is forecasting trends, media monitoring, or creating targeted campaigns, it has made our work sharper and more impactful.

Data-driven storytelling also became the norm, giving us the ability to back creativity with clear outcomes. What truly stood out was the unwavering focus on purpose – be it sustainability or inclusion. Brands recognized that it is no longer enough to make statements; they had to embody their values through genuine actions and meaningful impact.

Weber Shandwick India’s performance in 2024

2024 has truly been a defining year for Weber Shandwick India. We proudly secured major business partnerships with renowned global brands, reinforcing our position as industry leaders. Our campaigns left a lasting impact – ‘Kaise Ka Cancer’ for Tata Trusts earned global recognition among SABRE’s Top 40 campaigns, and it, along with #PVRHeardYou for PVR Inox, dominated PRovoke Media’s Global Creative Index.

We were honoured as Campaign Asia’s Agency of the Year and secured over 50 awards at prestigious global, regional, and national platforms, reflecting our commitment to delivering purposeful and innovative work. Our expansion into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities deepened our connection with local audiences, while internally, we prioritized equipping our teams for the future with upskilling initiatives in AI, digital strategies, and leadership.

This year was about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and making every effort count. It’s been a year that we’re incredibly proud of!

Also Read: Evolving consumer dynamics propelled India’s gaming sector in 2024: Himank Tripathi