This story has been updated
Toronto-based Holmes PR has been hired to lead the PR campaign for the Canadian National Exhibition.
Holmes PR was the agency of record for the CNE, also known as The Ex, from 1999 to 2009.
“With this vantage point, we’re able to focus our efforts on creative ways to excite the public, engage the media and raise awareness of one of Canada’s most longstanding and beloved annual events,” said Katherine Holmes, president of Holmes PR.
Last year, 1.36 million people attended The Ex, which featured a new zip line and Mach 3 rides, the Flying Wallendas and an acrobatic show. But the fair is perhaps best remembered for a headline-making PR disaster, after more than 200 people fell ill from eating cronut burgers. The CNE said this did not affect its decision to switch PR firms.
This year’s CNE takes place Aug. 15 to Sept. 1.
This story was updated on April 16 at 10:20 a.m.
