Top PR Firms in the US for 2025

Public Relations (PR) in 2025 goes far beyond media coverage — it’s about building trust, managing reputation, and shaping narratives across both digital and traditional platforms. While US agencies such as Edelman, Weber Shandwick, and 5WPR remain industry leaders, many now enhance their capabilities by integrating offshore PR teams into their delivery models.

For PR agencies, hiring Malaysian professionals offers scalable execution power at a fraction of domestic costs, allowing them to maintain client-facing strategy while expanding campaign capacity. For global companies, outsourcing PR tasks directly to Malaysia through FastLaneRecruit’s Employer of Record (EOR) service provides access to cost-efficient, multilingual talent that can support international communications without the overhead of establishing a local entity.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What PR agencies actually do
• How to choose the right PR firm
• The top PR agencies in the US (and globally) to consider in 2025
• Why outsourcing PR talent through FastLaneRecruit in Malaysia can be a smarter, cost-effective solution. 

What Does a PR Agency Do?

At its core, a Public Relations (PR) agency helps businesses manage their reputation, build credibility, and increase visibility. While the general goal is simple, making your brand known, the ways a PR agency achieves this can be varied and highly strategic. Let’s break down the key functions:

1. Media Relations

What It Means:
Media relations is about getting your brand featured in top-tier publications, news outlets, and online platforms. PR agencies leverage relationships with journalists, editors, and bloggers to secure coverage that builds credibility and trust.

Example in Action:
A SaaS startup may work with a PR agency to get featured in TechCrunch, showcasing their product launch to an audience of tech enthusiasts and potential investors.

Why It Matters:
Third-party validation from reputable media sources enhances your brand’s authority and can drive awareness, leads, and sales.

2. Crisis Management

What It Means:
Crisis management involves preparing for and responding to events that could harm your brand’s reputation. This includes anything from product recalls and negative press to social media backlash or executive controversies.

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Example in Action:
A company experiences a viral complaint about a defective product. A PR agency would quickly craft statements, manage media responses, and engage with customers to control the narrative and protect the brand image.

Why It Matters:
Effective crisis management minimizes damage, maintains customer trust, and can even turn challenges into opportunities for positive publicity.

3. Brand Positioning

What It Means:
Brand positioning is about defining how your business is perceived in the minds of customers and stakeholders. PR agencies craft messages that highlight your unique value, differentiators, and overall brand story.

Example in Action:
A fintech company might be positioned as a “secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional banking,” helping to attract tech-savvy customers who prioritize safety and convenience.

Why It Matters:
Clear brand positioning ensures that every message, campaign, or media interaction reinforces the story you want the market to know.

4. Digital PR & Influencer Outreach

What It Means:
Digital PR expands your brand’s presence online through social media, influencer collaborations, and digital-first publications. Agencies identify relevant digital platforms and personalities to amplify your message.

Example in Action:
A lifestyle brand partners with TikTok creators to showcase a new product line, reaching younger audiences in an authentic and engaging way.

Why It Matters:
Digital PR connects brands directly with audiences, increases engagement, and drives measurable online results.

5. Analytics & Reporting

What It Means:
PR isn’t just about visibility, it’s about measurable impact. Agencies track media mentions, social engagement, and overall sentiment to understand what’s working and optimize future campaigns.

Example in Action:
After a product launch, a PR agency monitors media coverage, social media discussions, and website traffic to calculate ROI and adjust strategies.

Why It Matters:
Data-driven insights allow companies to invest in PR efforts that provide the highest value and measurable business outcomes.

For a deeper understanding of how PR agencies operate in the U.S., you can refer to trusted resources such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Commerce.

How to Choose the Right PR Agency

Finding a PR agency is one thing; finding the right PR agency for your business is another. The wrong partner can waste time, money, and opportunities, while the right agency can elevate your brand and maximize your visibility. Here’s how to evaluate potential PR partners effectively:

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1. Industry Experience

What to Look For:
A PR agency that specializes in your sector understands your audience, competitors, and the media landscape. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, fashion, or finance, agencies with relevant experience can craft messaging that resonates with the right people.

Tip:
Ask the agency for examples of past campaigns in your industry. Review case studies to see how they’ve solved challenges similar to yours.

Recommendation:
If your company is a healthcare startup, prioritize agencies that have handled HIPAA-compliant messaging and medical media relations.

2. Journalist & Media Connections

What to Look For:
PR is built on relationships. Agencies that have strong connections with journalists, editors, and influencers can secure high-quality media placements faster than those who rely solely on cold outreach.

Tip:
Ask the agency about their media network and recent coverage placements. A reputable agency should be transparent about which publications and journalists they frequently engage.

Recommendation:
If your goal is national coverage, prioritize agencies with established connections to top-tier outlets like The New York Times, Forbes, or TechCrunch.

3. Transparency & Realistic Expectations

What to Look For:
Be cautious of agencies that guarantee press coverage, no legitimate PR firm can promise a placement. Look for transparency in reporting, campaign planning, and fee structure.

Tip:
Request a breakdown of services included, timelines, and KPIs. Ensure you understand what is deliverable versus aspirational.

Recommendation:
Choose an agency that offers monthly performance reports and is willing to adjust strategy based on measurable results.

4. Budget Alignment

What to Look For:
PR agencies vary widely in cost, from boutique firms to global agencies. Be upfront about your budget and ensure there is alignment between what you pay and the services you receive.

Tip:
Ask for a detailed proposal including hourly rates, retainer fees, and additional costs for campaigns or influencer outreach.

Recommendation:
Consider the ROI of PR services, not just the upfront cost. A slightly higher fee may be worth it if the agency has proven connections and expertise in your industry.

5. Proven Track Record

What to Look For:
Case studies, media placements, and client references demonstrate an agency’s ability to deliver results. A PR firm without evidence of past success is a risk.

Tip:
Ask for 3–5 recent case studies relevant to your sector and review the results achieved. Contact references if possible.

Recommendation:
Evaluate how the agency handled both successes and challenges. Agencies that can navigate complex situations effectively are often the best long-term partners.

6. Pro Tip: Intro Calls & Sample Strategies

Before signing a contract:

• Schedule introductory calls with shortlisted agencies
  
• Compare proposals and pricing
  
• Request a sample media strategy or campaign plan to assess creativity and approach

Extra Recommendation:
Use the sample strategy to see how the agency plans to leverage digital PR, influencer partnerships, and analytics, all critical elements in modern PR campaigns.

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Quick Checklist for Choosing a PR Agency

Evaluation Criteria	Key Questions to Ask	Tips & Recommendations
Industry Experience	Have you worked in our sector before?	Review case studies and previous campaigns
Media Connections	Which journalists and outlets do you regularly work with?	Verify placements and relationships
Transparency	What can you realistically achieve?	Ensure clear KPIs and reporting methods
Budget Alignment	What are your fees and retainer terms?	Compare ROI vs. cost
Track Record	Can you provide references and recent successes?	Focus on agencies with proven results
Strategy Approach	Can you show a sample media plan?	Evaluate creativity and measurable impact

The Top PR Firms in the US (2025)

In 2025, the PR landscape is more competitive and dynamic than ever. Choosing the right PR partner can significantly impact your brand visibility, credibility, and reputation. Here’s a closer look at 12 of the most reputable PR firms shaping brand stories in the US and globally:

1. Edelman (Global Leader)

Overview: Edelman is one of the largest and most respected PR firms in the world, with offices across multiple continents.

Specialties: Corporate communications, digital PR, crisis management, and brand positioning.

Why It Stands Out: Trusted by brands like Microsoft and Starbucks, Edelman is known for creating strategic campaigns that build trust and credibility across industries.

Example: During a product recall, Edelman helped a major tech brand maintain transparency with the public, preserving brand loyalty while minimizing negative media coverage.

2. Weber Shandwick

Overview: Weber Shandwick is renowned for its integrated approach, combining traditional media, digital campaigns, and social impact strategies.

Specialties: Media relations, content marketing, and social impact campaigns.

Why It Stands Out: The agency has worked with clients such as McDonald’s and Mastercard, blending storytelling with data insights for measurable outcomes.

Example: Weber Shandwick successfully launched a global sustainability initiative for a consumer brand, resulting in extensive media coverage and social engagement.

3. FleishmanHillard

Overview: FleishmanHillard specializes in managing high-stakes PR situations and long-term reputation strategies.

Specialties: Crisis management, public affairs, and reputation strategy.

Why It Stands Out: Trusted by Fortune 500 companies, the agency helps brands navigate complex challenges while protecting their public image.

Example: The firm guided a multinational company through a corporate scandal, turning potential negative press into an opportunity for transparent communication.

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4. 5WPR (Boutique & Bold)

Overview: Based in New York, 5WPR is known for aggressive, results-driven campaigns, particularly for emerging brands.

Specialties: Consumer brands, health & wellness, and tech startups.

Why It Stands Out: Clients like SodaStream and SAP benefit from 5WPR’s fast-moving strategies, securing media coverage that cuts through the noise.

Example: 5WPR helped a health brand gain viral attention on social media while earning placements in top-tier health and lifestyle publications.

5. Highwire PR (Tech PR Specialist)

Overview: Highwire PR focuses on technology-driven companies, helping them translate complex concepts into compelling stories.

Specialties: Fintech, cybersecurity, AI, and SaaS companies.

Why It Stands Out: Highwire works closely with journalists and investors to ensure technical innovations are clearly understood and highly visible.

Example: A cybersecurity startup achieved coverage in Wired and TechCrunch thanks to Highwire’s targeted media strategy.

6. Konnect Agency (Lifestyle & Digital PR)

Overview: Konnect Agency is a digital-first PR agency excelling in influencer marketing and lifestyle branding.

Specialties: Social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and digital PR.

Why It Stands Out: With clients like KIND Snacks and Beyond Meat, Konnect understands how to engage audiences on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms.

Example: They helped a new wellness brand create buzz through a combined strategy of influencer collaborations and lifestyle content, driving awareness and sales.

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7. Sard Verbinnen & Co. (Crisis Management Experts)

Overview: Sard Verbinnen specializes in high-stakes corporate and legal PR, handling sensitive situations with discretion.

Specialties: Financial, corporate, and litigation-related crisis management.

Why It Stands Out: Known for discretion and strategic messaging, it is a trusted partner for Fortune 500 companies and high-profile individuals.

Example: The firm guided a major financial institution through a regulatory investigation while maintaining stakeholder confidence.

8. Purple PR (Luxury & Fashion)

Overview: Purple PR focuses on luxury, lifestyle, and hospitality brands, helping them achieve visibility among premium audiences.

Specialties: Brand storytelling, influencer relations, and event PR.

Why It Stands Out: Clients include Valentino and Net-a-Porter, with campaigns tailored to high-net-worth audiences.

Example: Purple PR created a media campaign around a luxury hotel launch, securing placements in Vogue and Architectural Digest.

9. KCD (Fashion & Event PR)

Overview: KCD is a leader in high-fashion PR, combining media relations with event management.

Specialties: Fashion week coverage, runway events, and brand partnerships.

Why It Stands Out: KCD manages press and events for New York, Paris, and Milan Fashion Weeks, ensuring maximum exposure for luxury brands.

Example: KCD successfully coordinated a global fashion campaign for a luxury designer, blending live events with social media amplification.

10. ReviveHealth (Healthcare & Biotech)

Overview: ReviveHealth specializes in healthcare and biotech PR, focusing on clear, compliant communication.

Specialties: Hospital communication, patient engagement, biotech, and medical media relations.

Why It Stands Out: They help organizations navigate complex healthcare regulations while maintaining trust with patients and stakeholders.

Example: A biotech firm used ReviveHealth’s guidance to communicate clinical trial results, achieving media coverage and investor confidence.

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11. Spectrum Science (Life Sciences PR)

Overview: Spectrum Science works exclusively in pharmaceutical and life sciences communication.

Specialties: Biotech PR, research institutions, and pharma branding.

Why It Stands Out: They craft narratives that resonate with healthcare professionals, investors, and patients.

Example: Spectrum Science helped a medical research organization communicate new treatment breakthroughs, earning coverage in top-tier health publications.

12. Bulleit Group (Tech & Emerging Brands)

Overview: Bulleit Group focuses on emerging tech companies, translating complex technical innovations into stories that attract attention.

Specialties: AI startups, SaaS, and deep-tech innovators.

Why It Stands Out: They combine industry knowledge with strong media relationships to help disruptive brands stand out.

Example: A SaaS startup gained significant investor interest and press coverage after Bulleit Group crafted a clear, compelling media strategy.

Outsourcing PR Talent: A Global Alternative

Hiring a US-based PR agency can provide prestige, access to top-tier media connections, and established processes. However, these benefits often come with high costs, limited scalability, and contracts that may not suit growing or global-focused businesses.

As a result, many companies are exploring outsourcing PR talent to regions like Malaysia, where skilled professionals offer cost-effective, high-quality PR support for international brands. Outsourcing allows businesses to maintain global visibility, expand reach, and scale PR operations without the overhead of a US agency.

Why Outsource PR Talent to Malaysia?

1. Cost Savings

Overview: The cost of hiring PR professionals in Malaysia is significantly lower than hiring in the US or Europe. Businesses can access world-class PR talent at a fraction of the cost.

Example: Top US firms often charge $30,000–$50,000 per month, while outsourcing to Malaysia can deliver comparable expertise for $5,000–$10,000., depending on team size and scope.

Tip: Use the savings to invest in additional campaigns, digital advertising, or influencer outreach, maximizing your ROI.

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2. Skilled Workforce

Overview: Malaysia has a multilingual, highly educated talent pool experienced in global communications, media relations, crisis management, and digital PR.

Example: A fintech startup can hire Malaysian PR specialists fluent in English, Mandarin, and Bahasa Malaysia to handle both local and international campaigns.

Tip: Look for professionals with prior experience in your industry or in international media outreach to ensure messaging aligns with your brand goals.

3. Scalability

Overview: Outsourcing via an Employer of Record (EOR) allows companies to hire a single PR professional or an entire team without establishing a local legal entity.

Example: A tech company expanding into Southeast Asia can start with one PR manager and scale to a full team within months, all managed by the EOR service.

Tip: Plan team growth in phases, start with a core media relations specialist, then expand to include digital PR and influencer management as campaigns scale.

4. Proven Global Outsourcing Hub

Overview: Malaysia is consistently recognized as a top destination for outsourcing by global organizations such as the World Bank and Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Why It Matters: Companies can rely on strong infrastructure, favorable business regulations, and a professional talent pool, making Malaysia a stable, strategic choice for outsourcing PR services.

Comparing PR Hiring: US vs. Malaysia

Feature	Hiring in the US	Outsourcing to Malaysia
Cost	High retainers ($30k–$50k/month)	Affordable monthly costs with flexible contracts
Scalability	Limited; adding team members is slow and costly	Rapidly scale PR teams through EOR solutions
Talent Pool	Access to local connections; expensive	Multilingual, global communication expertise
Media Connections	Strong US media network; limited international reach	Digital-first, global outreach capabilities
Setup	May require long-term contracts or entity setup	No local entity needed; compliant via EOR

Tip: Use this comparison to calculate potential savings and scalability benefits. Outsourcing can free up budget for campaigns while providing international expertise.

Conclusion

PR today is about more than press coverage — it’s about scale, reputation, and measurable impact. US firms like Edelman or Weber Shandwick bring global prestige, but many now enhance their delivery by tapping into offshore PR professionals. At the same time, international businesses are discovering they can access the same skilled talent directly.

With FastLaneRecruit’s EOR model in Malaysia, agencies and companies alike can build cost-effective PR capacity, expand campaign execution, and stay fully compliant while keeping strategic control.

Expand Your Brand Globally with Top Malaysian PR Talent

Looking to outsource a PR team or hire individual PR specialists in Malaysia? FastLaneRecruit makes it easy for international businesses to access highly skilled PR professionals without the hassle of setting up a local company.

With our Employer of Record (EOR) service, you can:

• Hire top Malaysian PR talent seamlessly – from media relations specialists to full PR teams.
  
• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and payroll regulations – FastLaneRecruit handles HR and legal requirements.
  
• Scale your PR capabilities quickly and cost-effectively – expand your team as your campaigns grow.
  
• Retain strategic control – you direct your PR initiatives while we manage administrative tasks.

Why FastLaneRecruit?
By outsourcing through FastLaneRecruit, you gain access to Malaysia’s multilingual, globally experienced PR professionals who can execute campaigns for local, regional, and international markets, all while keeping costs significantly lower than hiring US-based agencies.

Take the Next Step:
Don’t let geography limit your brand’s reach. Contact FastLaneRecruit today to explore how our EOR solutions can help you hire the right PR talent in Malaysia, scale your team efficiently, and elevate your global presence.