PRCA study shows growth in UK PR industry

New analysis from the PRCA has demonstrated that the UK PR industry is continuing to experience growth, despite gloomy predictions for the economy as a whole.

The industry body's latest Barometer report has shown that the sector saw its second successive quarter of growth during the period between April 1st and June 30th, with a 16 percent net increase in client budgets recorded.

A net 37 percent of PR managing directors are increasingly optimistic for their consultancy's prospects, while 64 percent of business generated during the quarter came from new clients.

These positive trends are also leading companies to increase their hiring activity, including graduate recruitment and use of freelancers.

Francis Ingham, PRCA chief executive, said it would be "ridiculous" for the industry to follow suggestions to curtail pitching activity during the Olympics, adding: "Now is the time to build on our momentum, not to stop and let the recession catch up to us."

Founded in 1969, the PRCA is the UK professional body representing all PR consultancies, in-house communications teams, freelancers and individuals.