Text 100, the UK's No.1 hi-tech PR consultancy has been appointed as the lead PR agency of Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) following a two-way pitch with Fleishman Hillard (the incumbent). The work is focused on establishing a strong regional identity for Microsoft EMEA and giving ongoing PR support to local subsidiaries. All activity is focused at a pan-EMEA level. The contract starts 1st September 1998.

Text 100 has been handling Microsoft's PR in the UK, including, Ireland, South Africa, India and project work in Germany, and will extend this to include handling pan-European media relations, corporate PR, consultancy services and training for the IT leader's newly amalgamated EMEA region.

Delphine Reyre, Microsoft EMEA PR Manager commented: "Microsoft EMEA is at an exciting point in its development. Computing is becoming increasingly pervasive in the region. We have appointed Text 100 to take us through this period, in recognition that we need to work with a consultancy that thoroughly understands the issues we face. Text 100 lives and breathes technology, understands our organisation and has a strong and solid track record with Microsoft. A partnership with them is a natural fit."

Stuart Handley, Microsoft global account director at Text 100 said: "This is a brilliant opportunity to do great work for a great client. We have been working with Microsoft for many years and this is one of the most exciting times for the company. We in fact launched Microsoft in Europe in the early 80's and it is very gratifying to be playing a role in growing their reputation in this diverse region. Europe in particular is one of the company's biggest international markets. We have long term international aspirations for our work with Microsoft and winning this work is an exciting step forward for us."

Notes to the editor:
Text 100 Group plc is a global PR consultancy serving the technology industry. The company's clients include BT, Compaq, Orange, Samsung, The Document Company Xerox, Microsoft and Gateway 2000. Text 100 was founded in 1981, employs over 250 people and has offices situated throughout Europe, Africa, South Asia, Australia and the USA.

Additional information about Text 100 and its services can be found at www.text100.co.uk/.

For further information contact:
Stuart Handley
Text 100
Tel:0181 242 4177