
By Friday morning, a faulty security update affecting Microsoft systems had nearly paralysed the entire world. While the technical analysis of the situation or a BCP review would be a topic of its own, an unexpected and overwhelming incident like this demonstrates why it is essential for a company to have a strong, well-maintained crisis communication system. Such a system does not slow down reaction — in fact, it enables quick and effective response in situations exactly like this.

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.

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 purpose of tenders is to support the selection of the right partner based on a validated professional background, competencies, and limited trial tasks. However, current practice often looks different: clients request complete strategies, detailed action plans, and creative solutions without remuneration, with tight deadlines and incomplete briefs. This is not only detrimental to agencies, but also impairs the quality of clients' decisions, ultimately hindering the selection of the most suitable agency partner. This problem is not unique to Hungary; it has been discussed internationally for years.

2026 is a watershed moment for corporate communications: reputation has never been more valuable, trust has never been more fragile, and artificial intelligence has never had such a profound impact on what information consumers and decision-makers see first. In this complex environment, PR is no longer just a complementary tactic—it is a strategic business function that directly impacts growth, risk management, and long-term competitiveness.