
Influencer collaborations have come a long way over the past decade, ever since brands first recognised the value and impact of individuals with large, engaged audiences — those who influence and shape their followers’ decisions. Although these collaborations often sit on the borderline between different agency disciplines, we frequently use them as PR tools due to the broad range of opportunities they offer. Recent years have shown that simply placing a product next to a well-known person in a static photo is no longer enough. This approach feels “advertisy,” prompting followers to scroll past. If influencers post too much of this type of content, it can even damage their credibility in the long run.

We revisited a fundamental question — why we work with a partner — and asked ourselves, even on the busiest days, how we truly support them. These reflections led us to recommend our client PlanRadar’s Hungarian expert as an interviewee for one of the most prominent online business media outlets in Hungary.

Having left the Café Group last year, formerly known as Café PR, the team, which has won multiple domestic and international professional awards, has finally left the past behind and renewed itself. Under the name FleishmanHillard, they continue to work as one of the largest international communications agencies in Budapest, operating as an independent office. Complemented by new business lines and backed by experienced senior colleagues, they offer a renewed, modular range of services that has made them a recognized player in the market over the past 25 years.

One thing remains constant: change. And for us, 2024 has begun with a major transformation. A new and exciting chapter is unfolding in the story of FleishmanHillard Café—now operating as an independent communications agency with a renewed structure and an expanded digital division. After 24 successful years, during which it has been recognized multiple times as Agency of the Year, FleishmanHillard Café is parting ways with Café Group to embark on this next stage of its journey.

The sudden departure of SAP Hungary’s managing director, and the scandal that unfolded around it, once again highlighted that crisis management requires more than quick reaction. Thoughtful, well-structured and consistent communication plays an equally critical role. Without it, a company’s reputation can suffer long-term damage. This case also shows that ambiguity and vague wording often cause greater harm than the initial crisis itself. The aim of this article is not to detail the events at the company or to speculate, but to illustrate the challenges of managing a crisis rooted in organisational culture and structure.

Learn how to handle crises professionally. Customized crisis communication training for companies – with simulated exercises and proven effectiveness. Because crises will come. The question is whether your company will sink or ride them out.