One of Wales’ oldest PR and marketing firms has ceased trading. Cardiff-based Petersens Ltd, founded by Rob Petersen, said it took the decision after a number of clients opted to take PR and marketing functions in-house.
However, Mr Petersen will continue to operate as a sole trader under the Petersens PR brand, with freelance support, initially working with a number of clients of the previous trading entity, which employed four. Helen Whitehouse of Swansea-based insolvency practice McAlister & Co has been appointed voluntary liquidator of Petersens Ltd.
Mr Petersen founded the former business, which traded as Petersens PR, more than twenty years ago. He said: “At the end of 2023 Petersens PR was on a high, celebrating 20 years since the launch of the company along with several new business wins.
“As we entered 2024, with a growing client list and lots of exciting campaign ideas, we had high hopes for another successful year ahead. However, things didn’t turn out quite as we hoped. Several clients were facing budget and cash flow issues, and with the uncertainty around the General Election and the new government, decided to take their public relations and marketing services in-house.
"This is unfortunately common in our industry as when businesses are under pressure, PR and marketing budgets are often the first to be cut. The financial impact of these decisions meant that I was forced to take the difficult decision to close down Petersens Ltd.
"After 20 years of working with many excellent clients in Wales and beyond, and having employed dozens of PR practitioners, many of whom have gone on to have incredible careers in the industry, this was a bitter blow.â€
However, he remains upbeat on the future. He added: “As I still have several loyal clients and a genuine desire to support businesses with their marketing and PR needs, I have decided to continue to offer my services on a freelance basis under the Petersens PR brand.â€
