Thu, 07 Sep 2017 | BUSINESS SALE
Bell Pottinger, the public relations firm which was expelled from the UK’s trade body for its work on a controversial campaign in South Africa, has confirmed that it will put itself up for sale.
A spokesperson for the company, whose clients include banking giant HSBC, said that accountants BDO had been appointed to advise “on the best options for the business moving forward”.
The PR firm has reportedly lost many of its clients on the back of a campaign it put together for Oakbay Capital, a South African holding company owned by the Gupta family, after the campaign was deemed “potentially racially divisive” by an independent report.
The Bell Pottinger campaign was accused of stoking anger over emphasising the power of white-owned businesses in South Africa, while the report also accused the firm of promoting an “economic apartheid”.
The report, carried out by law firm Herbert Smith Freehills, also found that Bell Pottinger lacked adequate policies for handling the fallout of the campaign and said the firm missed opportunities to crack down on the disaster.
The industry trade body, the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), has expelled the firm, while clients such as luxury goods firm Richemont have severed all ties with Bell Pottinger.
BDO will now try to find a buyer for the company, which at present employs 250 people in offices in London, Asia and the Middle East.
The firm’s chief executive, James Henderson, retired last week. The company has said it will move quickly to find a replacement.
This is not the first time Bell Pottinger has courted controversy: previous clients include athlete Oscar Pistorius after he was charged with murder, former president FW de Klerk, a vocal opponent of Nelson Mandela, and arms manufacturer BAE Systems.
Subscribe to Business Sale Report here
Search for advertising & media businesses for sale here
This is an opportunity to acquire the shares, business and/or assets of an electrophoretic and powder coating specialist located within the North East of England. Indicative proposals, supported by proof of funding, are accepted by no later than 4pm...
This unique holiday accommodation business offers distinctive, design-led stays on over 15 acres of private land, complete with exceptional amenities and a residential property. With a strong occupancy rate of over 90% and excellent guest reviews, it...
FREEHOLD
This exceptional opportunity allows you to acquire a leading UK business in pneumatic tube systems for healthcare, boasting exclusive distribution rights and strong client retention through multi-year service agreements.
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.