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Kennett Square, PA ~ November 9^th, 2001 ~ Focusing on the rapidly growing lawn and garden industry, IMPACT Marketing & PR, Inc. recently launched their new division, the Garden Media Group™, at the Garden Writers Association of America 2001 Symposium in Orlando.

The Garden Media Group helps horticultural companies increase demand for its brands and attract customers with positive media and internet exposure.

According to the National Gardening Association, the Lawn & Garden industry is estimated to generate more than $30 billion in retail sales annually.

The award-winning reputation management firm based in Kennett Square, PA , the ‘horticultural mecca’ of North America , serves some half dozen “green” clients internationally including clients in Canada , Holland and France .

Founder Susan McCoy and her staff are well respected in the industry as well as with garden communicators. This positions the firm to help clients capture more “share of mind” to increase sales.

“IMPACT knows how to create the ‘buzz’ that drives customers to the garden centers,” says Jeff Gibson, Marketing Manager of Ball. “They clearly understand the horticultural industry.”

Clients recognize the effectiveness of strategic PR. “Since our relationship with IMPACT began in 1995, our brand recognition has soared,” says Steve Hutton, president, The Conard-Pyle Co. ”They have given us a national presence and impact well beyond our expectations."

“Our strategy is to partner with the best companies in each segment of the lawn and garden industry – from tools to patio furniture,” says McCoy. “We can leverage our already established media contacts to help new clients build brand awareness.”

Other “green clients” include Campania International, Garden Writers Association of America, Meilland Star Roses, Premiere Horticulture and TulipWorld.com.

According to McCoy, the key when selecting a public relations agency is to pick a specialized agency versus a "generalist” firm.

"An agency whose expertise draws from the client's industry can deliver turn-key results fast," she explains. “The foundation is already laid. You just add a new layer.”

Clients appreciate the agency’s specialty. “IMPACT has a focus -- gardening -- and their clients complement each other,” says Pim Bouwman, founder of Tulip World. “Their contacts in the garden world are great; everybody knows them and appreciates their work.”

To learn how the Garden Media Group can help you increase your sales,

call or e-mail for a GMG CD Presentation

GMG NEWS: November 9th, 2001
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