The Haier Group has inked a global agreement with Hill & Knowlton to accelerate and align the branding and communications of China’s largest home appliance manufacturer. Hill & Knowlton has been selected to support the organization in establishing an integrated international public relations program, offer counsel in developing its communications strategy and manage execution of communications programs around the world. The assignment builds on the successful outreach undertaken by Hill & Knowlton for Haier during the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

The selection process of a global public relations partner was initiated by Haier in October 2008, and five international firms participated in the pitch process.

"Hill & Knowlton has proven experience working with Chinese companies and understanding the challenges they face in pursuing overseas strategies," said a spokesperson for Haier. "As Haier strengthens its position as a global leader in providing home appliances and living solutions, we need to have the international expertise and resources to convey our brand position globally, and Hill & Knowlton is the right firm to support us in that endeavor."

"While Haier is already a leading multinational organization, they are determined to make further in-roads both domestically and abroad," said James B. Heimowitz, CEO of Hill & Knowlton North Asia. "We are delighted to be selected as Haier’s public relations partner and are excited about helping the organization in communicating its corporate mission and the value of its brands across the more than 160 countries where they are available."

Since becoming the first international public relations and public affairs firm to open an office in China in 1984, Hill & Knowlton has delivered cutting-edge communications programs that create impact for clients. The firm recently launched a global communications offering for Chinese companies looking to expand their brand beyond the nation’s borders. The program integrates the best in global practices with the Hill & Knowlton’s network of industry experts in order to deliver strategic consulting services that serve the international communications needs of Chinese companies. Current clients include PetroChina, Baidu.com, Tsingtao Brewery, Ping An, ZTE and Shanghai Expo 2010 among others.

"The globalization of Chinese companies is accelerating and they need appropriate communications strategies to complement this growth," said Frances Sun, senior vice president of Hill & Knowlton Beijing and practice leader of the firm's China-based 'Go Global' communications program. "Haier is committed to becoming a leading global brand in the home appliances industry and I am confident that we can successfully support them in achieving this need."

Haier is the No.1 home appliance manufacturer in China and ranked of revenue. Haier products are distributed in more than 160 countries and regions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Global revenues amounted to RMB 122 billion (USD 17.5 billion) in 2008, representing a year-on-year growth of eight percent. Revenues from the Group's overseas sales amounted to RMB 31.4 billion (USD 4.5 billion), representing an increase of 9.8 percent year-on-year. 

About Hill & Knowlton
Hill & Knowlton, Inc. is a leading international communications consultancy, providing services to local, multinational and global clients. The firm is headquartered in New York, with 80 offices in 43 countries, as well as an extensive associate network. The agency is part of WPP, one of the world's largest communications services groups. For further information about Hill & Knowlton, please visit www.hillandknowlton.com