Duffy & Shanley Takes Home Top Honors in PR Industry
A prestigious award acknowledging their exceptional consumer product launch
Recently, the PR and communications sector witnessed a remarkable gathering at the 2025 PRNEWS Platinum Awards Gala. This event, hailed as one of the industry's most significant nights, took place in a stunning venue in New York City, bringing together leaders and innovators from across the field. Duffy & Shanley, recognized for their outstanding integrated public relations efforts, received the top award for their exemplary work in launching the Australian brand, Bonds, into the U.S. market.
The Evening of Recognition
The gala celebrated excellence across various facets of communication, from creative storytelling to impactful strategies. Media representatives and communications experts came together to acknowledge the winners of the prestigious Platinum Awards, as well as the honorees such as People of the Year and Agency Elite Top 120. These recognitions celebrate the peak of brand storytelling, reputation management, and innovative strategies in public relations.
Bonds' U.S. Launch: A Breakthrough Campaign
Duffy & Shanley earned first place for their strategic public relations work surrounding Bonds' U.S. launch. This campaign generated widespread buzz, with Dylan Dreyer from the NBC Today Show remarking that it “broke the internet.” Bonds is a celebrated label in Australia owned by HanesBrands, known for its unique style and fun tone. The excitement around its launch included appearances by Robert Irwin, son of the legendary Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, and successfully tapped into New York City's vibrant Australian expat community, garnering national attention.
Measurable Success and Media Impressions
Through Duffy & Shanley’s strategic efforts, the launch achieved an astounding 22.5 billion media impressions and 58 million organic social impressions. The campaign's widespread coverage included major outlets like People magazine and Entertainment Tonight, showcasing the effective collaboration behind this successful initiative.
“Winning the top award in the consumer product launch category at our industry's biggest night is an incredible achievement,” expressed Annette Maggiacomo, President of Duffy & Shanley. “This campaign featured a wide array of strategic PR tactics, from media relations to influencer engagement and event planning. Seeing it all come together in such a spectacular way is an honor for our team and a testament to our commitment to outstanding work for our clients.”
The Significance of the Platinum Awards
The Platinum Awards serve as an important benchmark in the communication industry, reflecting the advancements and creative ideas shaping the present and future of public relations. This year's winners exhibited creativity, integrity, and strategic excellence, demonstrating how powerful communication can create impactful connections.
A Night to Remember
The gala featured a night filled with exciting moments including a networking reception, an elegant seated dinner, and the thrilling awards ceremony followed by the memorable Platinum After Party. Attendees celebrated alongside top brands, agencies, and non-profit organizations that made remarkable contributions to the industry.
About Duffy & Shanley, Inc.
Located in Providence, R.I., Duffy & Shanley stands as one of New England’s largest independent communication firms. This full-service agency specializes in devising innovative campaigns for Fortune 500 companies and major brands like BJ's Wholesale Club, College Ave, Dunkin', Ørsted, and Hanesbrands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did Duffy & Shanley receive at the gala?
Duffy & Shanley won the top award for best-in-class work for a U.S. Consumer Product Launch at the 2025 PRNEWS Platinum Awards.
What campaign did Duffy & Shanley execute to win the award?
The agency’s campaign launched the Australian brand Bonds in the U.S., featuring strategic public relations tactics that garnered significant media coverage.
What was notable about the Bonds campaign?
The campaign received over 22.5 billion media impressions and featured prominent figures like Robert Irwin, leading to its recognition as a vastly successful launch.
How did Annette Maggiacomo describe the achievement?
Annette Maggiacomo referred to winning the award as an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the agency's dedication to creating impactful work.
What does the Platinum Awards Gala signify?
The Platinum Awards Gala highlights the creativity and strategic excellence defining the PR and communications industry today, celebrating those who make meaningful contributions.
