Hotwire handed UK PR account by Ricoh

Hotwire has been selected as the new UK partner of the IT services company Ricoh following a six-way competitive pitch.

The account, formerly held by Weber Shandwick, has passed over to Hotwire, which will now handle the client's integrated comms and influencer relations programme, with activity to include brand storytelling, content creation and strategic messaging development.

Ricoh is based in Tokyo and specialises in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services. The company is seeking to enhance its reputation as a tech leader for business solutions.

Hotwire's strategic vision, values and creativity were cited as the reasons why Ricoh selected it for the brief.

Alex MacLaverty, Hotwire's UK group managing director, said: "Working with such a prestigious brand to help it continue on its journey of business transformation presents an incredible challenge and amazing opportunities for the team."

Hotwire has enjoyed a successful 2014, having been named global technology agency of the year by The Holmes Report in September.