Edelman
The world's largest independent PR firm, built for trust-driven communications at scale.
- Founded
- 1952
- Team size
- 5000+
- Headquarters
- Chicago, IL
- Avg. cost
- $25,000–$500,000+/mo
Overview
About
Edelman is a global communications firm founded in 1952, with 5,000-plus staff and a client roster that includes Shell, Starbucks and Samsung. It covers the full PR spectrum, from corporate reputation and crisis to consumer PR, public affairs, digital and research, and is best known for turning trust research (the Trust Barometer) into practical communications strategy.
Edelman is a global communications firm founded in 1952, with 5,000-plus staff and a client roster that includes Shell, Starbucks and Samsung. It covers the full PR spectrum, from corporate reputation and crisis to consumer PR, public affairs, digital and research, and is best known for turning trust research (the Trust Barometer) into practical communications strategy.
What they do
Services
- Corporate PR
- Consumer PR
- Public affairs
- Crisis communications
- Content
- Digital
- Research
Specializations
Industries served
Ideal client
Who they help
The default pick for Fortune 500 enterprises, large regulated industries and governments that need multi-market communications, crisis readiness and public-affairs firepower. Also relevant for scaling tech and healthcare companies entering new regions. Overkill for small businesses or founder-led startups.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Global footprint with offices on every continent
- Full-service across corporate, consumer, crisis and public affairs
- Owns Trust Barometer research, used by many Fortune 500 comms teams
- Deep experience in regulated verticals like healthcare, finance and energy
- Independent and family-owned, so stable account leadership
Cons
- Enterprise pricing and minimums put it out of reach for smaller brands
- Large agency means variable team quality across accounts and markets
- More senior strategy focus can feel heavy for simple product PR
Pricing
Notable clients
Common questions
FAQ
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What services does Edelman offer?
Edelman offers Corporate PR, Consumer PR, Public affairs, Crisis communications, Content, Digital, and more.
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Where is Edelman based?
Edelman is headquartered in Chicago, IL and works with clients remotely worldwide.
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How much does Edelman cost?
Edelman operates on a monthly retainer model, a minimum engagement of $25,000, typical costs of $25,000–$500,000+/mo.
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Who is Edelman best for?
The default pick for Fortune 500 enterprises, large regulated industries and governments that need multi-market communications, crisis readiness and public-affairs firepower. Also relevant for scaling tech and healthcare companies entering new regions. Overkill for small businesses or founder-led startups.
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What industries does Edelman serve?
Edelman serves clients in Finance, Healthcare, Tech, CPG, Energy, Government.
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How big is Edelman and when was it founded?
Edelman was founded in 1952 and has a team of 5000+ people.
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How do I contact Edelman?
You can visit www.edelman.com.
Editor’s take
The safe, scalable choice for enterprise communications and crisis-sensitive brands. Not the right call if you want a scrappy, product-launch team.