In the News
Verizon Catches Flak for Backing Rally Put on by Coal Producer
September 2, 2009 • Advertising Age • By Rita Chang
Verizon Wireless, which has been trying to establish its green credentials nationally, is finding itself in hot water with environmentalists blasting it for local sponsorship of a rally organized by a coal producer.
Regardless of Verizon’s intention, PR executives said if a company underwrites an event that takes a strong view on a combustible issue such as jobs and the environment, it is basically saying it’s on board with the organizers’ philosophy. “Any level of participation in an event as a sponsor, supporter or even attendee lends the credibility of your corporate brand to that event or cause,” said Marc Hausman, president-CEO of Strategic Communications Group.