AKA Communications is proud to announce its appointment as the official PR and communications agency for Junk Smash Burgers, the European smash-burger concept, as it prepares to launch its first UAE location later this year.The launch is part of ICON Hospitality’s continued expansion in the region, following the rollout of international concepts including EL&N London and Loris Restaurant.

Commenting on the partnership, Antony Rettie, co-founder of AKA Communications, said: “We’re excited to partner with Junk Smash Burgers for their UAE launch. Their bold, no-nonsense approach to comfort food aligns perfectly with our hospitality expertise, and we look forward to building a compelling launch narrative that will position Junk as the go-to burger stop in the city.”

(In the picture: AKA Communications Co-founders, Katrina Kutchinsky and Antony Rettie)

PR and marketing firm, Free Folk Agency, has welcomed Maia O'Connor and Caylin Cannon to its Melbourne office as Senior Account Manager and Account Executive respectively, strengthening capacity in response to growing demand.

The new hires follow a series of client wins across the agency's national network, including being appointed Australian PR agency partner for the World Supercross Championship. As part of this remit, the Free Folk team will work on the Australian GP alongside London-based sports and entertainment marketing agency, The Space Between, and the global World Supercross team.

Free Folk Agency's Co-Founder and Head of Client Services, Teagan West, said: "Our appointment marks an exciting chapter for the agency and speaks to our proven track record, five-star team and the industry-leading network of media, influencers, suppliers and industry
professionals who sit in our back pocket.

"Work is already underway and we are looking forward to making the Australian GP an event not to miss on the national sporting calendar."

Iris Nguyen has joined Mango Communications Aotearoa NZ as Senior Account Manager. She was at Botica Butler Raudon Partners for nearly four years, most recently as Account Manager.

Prior to this, Iris gained comms experience in Vietnam at Biz-Eyes, Hakuhodo’s PR agency.