PPHC Expands Global Reach with Acquisition of TrailRunner International

Public Policy Holding Company, Inc. ("PPHC" or "the Group"), a leading force in government relations and public affairs, has announced a major milestone with its acquisition of TrailRunner International ("TrailRunner"). This acquisition is set to enhance the Group's strategic and financial communications capabilities.

Acquisition Details and Significance

The acquisition, which is scheduled to close by April 1, 2025, marks PPHC’s fifth major acquisition since its IPO in 2021. It solidifies the Group’s position as a global leader in strategic communications services, expanding its reach and impact on the world stage.

TrailRunner’s Expansion to PPHC’s Network

Founded in 2016, TrailRunner brings over 80 full-time professionals to PPHC’s global network, with offices across eight locations. The addition of new offices in high-growth U.S. markets—such as Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, Nashville, TN, and New York City—along with a strengthened presence in Northern California and London, significantly extends PPHC’s geographical footprint. New capabilities are also established in Shanghai, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, marking a key global expansion.

Strengthening Core Offerings and Capabilities

This acquisition substantially enhances PPHC’s expertise in various areas, including corporate affairs, financial communications, litigation communications, crisis management, and sports. The inclusion of TrailRunner’s specialized sports practice, TrailRunner Sports, is a notable addition to the Group’s service offerings.

Expanding Client Portfolio

TrailRunner’s diverse and impressive client base adds to PPHC’s existing portfolio, which includes over 1,200 corporate clients, nearly half of the Fortune 500, and a range of leading trade organizations, non-profits, and government entities. The acquisition further solidifies PPHC’s dominant position in the industry.

"The acquisition of TrailRunner marks a transformational moment for PPHC as we simultaneously deepen our U.S. position and establish ourselves as a truly global strategic communications group," said Stewart Hall, CEO of PPHC. "This expansion significantly advances our strategy of building the world's most comprehensive provider of government relations and corporate communications services."

“Today’s global megatrend in our business is the collision of critical practice areas, including corporate reputation, government relations, finance, crisis, litigation, and sports and I can think of no better strategic growth partner to capitalize on it than PPHC,” said Jim Wilkinson, Executive Chairman of TrailRunner International. “TrailRunner is a unique and exciting growth company with a track record of proven financial success, an aggressive strategy for continued growth, and the deep bench of talent required to succeed.”

Jim Hughes, CEO of TrailRunner International, added: “We are excited about this opportunity to accelerate our growth even further as a part of the PPHC family of companies. From our very first conversations with Stewart and the PPHC team, it has been clear that there is a very strong alignment between our cultures and our shared vision for the long-term opportunity in corporate advisory for firms that are truly committed to the success of their clients. TrailRunner’s robust capabilities across strategic communications complement PPHC’s strong offerings across government relations, public affairs, and public policy, and we are eager to join forces with PPHC to help even more clients around the world build and maintain the stakeholder support they need to achieve their business objectives.”