5 Chicago marketing and PR agencies revolutionizing the media industry

Whether launching a new business or revitalizing an existing brand, maintaining a successful PR and marketing plan is essential for long-term entrepreneurial growth. Chicago is a national leader in marketing and PR, home to some of the country’s top agencies specializing in business development. Here are a few of the top local PR and marketing agencies revolutionizing the field with innovative branding solutions.

Chicago Star Media

Chicago Star Media is paving the way for a new approach to marketing services in Chicago, combining an in-house newsroom with a comprehensive set of marketing services for professional brand building. Chicago Star’s Branded Content Services cover marketing and branding, professional editing services, copywriting, event planning, and PR.

So far, the company has collaborated with high-profile clients Navy Pier, Mariano’s, and The Joffrey Ballet. Additionally, Chicago Star recently partnered with healthcare staffing company Curative Talent to help the Texas-based business develop its brand image.

In December, Chicago Star worked with international orthodontics company Impress to host its “Dress to Impress Holiday Bash”, bringing together company associates, local business leaders, and influencers for a seasonal celebration and promotion of the Impress’s mission. Guests had the chance to tour the Impress facility in Wicker Park and learn more about the company’s custom orthodontic services, all while enjoying a fun-filled event.

Chicago Star has received two awards for its Branded Content Services in 2024. In February, The Manifest named Chicago Star one of the most reviewed and recommended Marketing Strategy Leaders in Chicago. Additionally, Chicago Star received a Netty Award for its branding campaign work with the Christkindlmarket in 2023.

Learn about Chicago Star's full list of Branded Content Services by checking out its digital portfolio.

Heron Agency

Heron Agency is a Chicago-based lifestyle communications group specializing in strategic marketing campaigns for the hospitality sector, arts, entertainment, and music. Heron Agency works to coordinate PR, media planning, and social media outreach to drive bottom-line results. Heron Agency has worked with Hilton, Jewel Osco, City Winery, and The Chicago Theater.

Mekky Media Relations

Since launching in 2016, PR agency Mekky Media Relations has garnered a client base of notable names like Red Bull and The American Library Association. Mekky’s all-in-one services include PR strategy, event promotion, influencer collaboration, content creation, and media training. Mekky Media Relations works with businesses to create innovative publicity strategies that deliver results.

In 2023, Mekky captured the city’s attention with a viral marketing event in the lead-up to the Formula 1 Red Bull Showrun. The unique marketing campaign brought the Red Bull F1 car to the CTA tracks in the Loop, drawing crowds and generating buzz on social media ahead of the event.

ColorJar

ColorJar in Fulton Market is a full-service branding and design firm, driving business growth for notable business leaders for more than 15 years. ColorJar’s clients include Google, Navy Pier, and Lettuce Entertain You. The company specializes in brand management, logo and web design, creative campaigns, and internal communications.

Walker Sands

Since 2001, Walker Sands has provided Chicago businesses with custom marketing strategies tailored to their unique development needs. With over 170 employees and nationwide offices, Walker Sands's robust network specializes in content marketing, SEO services, web design, product launches, and media relations. Walker Sands ranked number 7 on Manifest’s list of Top 100 PR consultants in Chicago for 2024, receiving high marks for timeliness, service excellence, and value.