DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN--The Isle of Man Government is set to consolidate its global public relations and public affairs activity, worth as much as £500K, with incumbent firm Lansons.

The Holmes Report understands that final contract negotiations are currently underway with Lansons, which previously handled the bulk of the Manx Government’s PR and PA activity. The new brief also incorporates the island’s smaller tourism assignment, formerly overseen by Weber Shandwick.

The two incumbents pitched in a competitive review, first revealed by the Holmes Report last month, alongside Capital MS&L and Hanover. The business under review is overseen by the Isle of Man Chief Secretary’s Office and its Department of Economic Development (DfED).

The review is part of attempts by the Isle of Man to boost its global appeal to tourists and businesses. It is thought that Lansons will service the international aspects of the programme through its membership in the PROI network of independent agencies.

The Isle of Man offers incentives to companies to locate on the island, ensuring that high-income industries such as banking, online gaming and filmmaking now account for the bulk of its GDP. The DfED also funds the Isle of Man's most recognisable brand, the TT Races that attract considerable investment and tourism to the island. The Chief Secretary's Office, meanwhile, helps coordinate the Government’s corporate initiatives and international relationships.

Lansons CEO Tony Langham declined to comment. Carol Hunter, head of communications at the Isle of Man Government's Chief Secretary's office, also declined to comment, pointing out that the procurement process had yet to be completed.