Represent, the Edinburgh-based award-winning PR & digital communications agency, has announced that they are to step down as communications and PR advisors for the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) and the Royal Highland Show, at the end of March following a successful 25-year partnership.
The decision paves the way for Represent to embark on a new focus for the agency, balancing a split of service provision across consumer and business accounts. The agency will continue to represent clients in the agricultural, rural and sustainability sectors including Crown Estate Scotland, Caledonian Climate, Hopetoun Estate, Eneco, and Rosebery Estates.
Describing the move as a ‘tough decision’, Represent’s Managing Director, Judith O’Leary, praised the efforts of her team, who have worked closely with RHASS directors and staff during periods of significant change. Key moments included show cancellations in 2001 due to foot and mouth and 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic returning to record-breaking Shows in 2022 and 2023.
Alongside renowned veteran agricultural PR and Represent Chairman, Ross Muir, Judith began working with RHASS and the Royal Highland Show team in the late 1990s.
Commenting on her agency’s departure Judith said:
“It has been an absolute honour to have been a part of the RHASS journey over the last 25 years and to have played such a vital role in phenomenal success of the Royal Highland Show.
“We have thoroughly enjoyed working with the RHASS Directors and staff during this time and are proud of the part we have played in supporting the Society and Show. It was a tough decision, but the timing was right for us to move on, and we wish the fantastic team at RHASS and the Royal Highland Show every success for the future.”
Represent Chairman, Ross Muir added:
“The agency had been handling the RHASS account since the mid 1980s before Judith came on board. She brought a fresh and enthusiastic approach to our PR work and over the years has given total commitment to enhancing the reputation of the Society and the Royal Highland Show. Nothing stands still, however, and it is now time for Represent to take on new challenges and move into other areas of business.”