
AI won’t replace market research. But it will expose weak strategy
Much of the broader conversation around AI in market research assumes conditions that do not consistently exist across many African markets, writes Soyinka Witness.
PUBLIC RELATIONS
By our News Team | 2023
French-based company says it wants a public relations partner to help it ‘tell stories that matter within the continent’.
Global aerospace company Airbus has chosen international communication advisory firm Irvine Partners as its dedicated PR agency across sub-Saharan Africa, supporting its communications in the region over the next three years.
Irvine Partners has six offices across Africa and the United Kingdom, and the consultancy believes this appointment further signals its commitment to expansion and growth across SSA. Its current client portfolio includes Spotify, Google, Salesforce, Airbnb and Huawei.
Photo by Shoval Zonnis from Pexels
“As a business with a strong foothold across sub-Saharan Africa and an acute understanding of its audiences, we’re well positioned to tell the Airbus story,” comments Irvine Partners CEO, Rachel Irvine.
“We will focus on tangible impact, specifically around socio-economic development on the continent, responsible growth and sustainability, and innovation within the aerospace industry.”
Strategic insights into Airbus’ communications approach
Adds Samsana Ismail, Head of Communications at Airbus Africa & Middle East: “We were impressed by Irvine Partners’ approach, their reach, understanding and strategic insights into our communications approach across Africa.
“Irvine Partners has six offices across the continent, so it’s important for us to collaborate with partners who possess a comprehensive understanding of market nuances and dynamics. Together, we’ll tell stories that matter within the continent.”
French-based Airbus is a major player on the continent and offers a wide portfolio of aerospace products and services for commercial airlines, helicopters, military aircraft and satellites.
“As of 2021, around 32 African airlines operate more than 240 Airbus aircraft, and customers in the region account for more than 280 additional aircraft on the order books,” the company says on its website.
Globally, Airbus has around 134,000 employees and as the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe. It has business operations located in Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

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She comes to Havas as a business leader with more than 20 years of expertise across marketing, advertising, transformation and growth.