While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has declared tomatoes safe to eat again, the work of rebuilding the industry's brand is not yet over. So far, the salmonella-related scare has cost the produce industry an estimated $100 million, sickened more than 1,200 people in 42 states, and left millions feeling a new wariness about food safety. Worse yet, an Associated Press-Ipsos poll finds that nearly half of consumers have changed their eating and buying habits ... Read More

As newspapers struggle to remain relevant and profitable in the midst of the new media revolution, their reforms are driving veteran reporters and editors to another line of work. Last year, when real estate mogul Sam Zell stepped in to buy the debt-ridden Tribune Company newspaper empire, few thought it would lead to the departure of industry pinnacles like The Los Angeles Times’ David Hiller and The Chicago Tribune’s Ann Marie Lipinski. But that is precisely what ... Read More

Last week’s reports that flawed practices at major Wall Street ratings firms played a significant role in the mortgage meltdown represent a serious branding crisis for firms whose business models and reputations are built on a foundation of trust and objectivity. The SEC’s findings – chief among them are revelations that agencies put profits ahead of reliable ratings by failing to respond to drastic workload increases with like increases in staffing and training – call into ... Read More

As Chinese state-owned funds step up their global investment initiatives, they may very well face a xenophobic backlash in the U.S. and elsewhere. Americans are already apprehensive about Chinese ownership of so much national debt – and the idea of increased Chinese ownership of American assets could compound that anxiety if the proper inroads are not established. While protectionist messages will likely figure prominently in the public relations strategy employed by opponents of Chinese investment, such ... Read More

Imagine you’re an award-winning author of three bestselling novels. You sit down with your publicist to discuss the media strategy for marketing your latest book and ask, “So, where’s my first interview? The cable news networks?” Your publicist responds, “Nope… we don’t need them.” With a puzzled look on your face you say, “OK… well, who’s going to do the first review? The Times, the Post?” “Nah,” says the publicist. “Newspapers are overrated.” As you take a closer look ... Read More

In 2005, Clear Channel Communications Inc. – the leading owner of U.S. radio stations – figuratively locked its doors when executives heard journalist Alec Foege knocking. The firm discovered that Foege was drafting a book entitled “The Monster that Ate Mass Media” and wanted nothing to do with it. At best, the company’s statements would be bent to reflect the author’s biases. At worst, any misstep made during the interview would be exaggerated for maximum effect. But ... Read More