Hyundai Appoints Weber Shandwick As Its Australian PR Partner

SYDNEY – March 7, 2011: Hyundai Motor Company Australia has appointed Weber Shandwick to advise on a range of strategic initiatives that will underpin the company’s public relations and communications efforts in 2011 and beyond.

Weber Shandwick will work closely with the Hyundai senior leadership team as it extends its business success in the Australian market. The agency will initially focus on Hyundai’s broad programme of corporate social responsibility work.

“We identified the need for a strategic PR agency partnership that would contribute to our strategic thinking and enhance our leadership position,” said Ben Hershman, Senior Manager PR & Events, Hyundai Motor Company Australia. “We are impressed by Weber Shandwick’s credentials as a PR agency and their operational capabilities. We look forward to building our partnership with them over the coming months.”

In 2010, Hyundai Motor Company Australia posted its best-ever annual sales results since the brand was introduced to Australia in 1986, achieving the biggest market share gain of any brand in 2010, with a total market share of 7.7%, up 1% over 2009. Nationally, Hyundai ranked fifth for the year in total sales and fourth for the year in passenger car sales with a market share of 10.2%.

“Hyundai is redefining the Australian automotive sector and it is a privilege to work with the company at such an exciting point in its business growth,” said Ian Rumsby, Chairman, Weber Shandwick Australia. “Our own expertise across all facets of corporate and lifestyle communications provides a strong base from which to assist Hyundai in all areas of its business. We are thoroughly looking forward to the opportunity to do exactly that.”