SPARKS, MD--Spice major McCormick & Company is reviewing its global PR account, the Holmes Report understands.

The pitch comes as the $3bn company aims to expand its emerging market presence. McCormick is a dominant player in US spice aisles, and recently reported strong consumer sales in its 2Q earnings despite the difficult economic environment.

According to the Baltimore Sun, McCormick has committed more than $440m since 2010 to fund its emerging-market aspirations, which have included acquisitions and joint ventures in Poland, India and Turkey.

McCormick’s US consumer business was awarded to Weber Shandwick in 2007, led by the firm’s Chicago office. At the time, it was reported that McCormick did not have a global AOR. It is understood that the current review is for the company's consumer division, and includes international markets.

The review follows a reorganization of McCormick’s global communications department earlier this year. Lori Robinson was appointed VP of corporate communications, corporate branding and culinary marketing - after previously heading marketing for McCormick’s US consumer products division.

At the same time, former VP of corporate comms and community relations John McCormick moved into a new role as VP of government relations and community affairs.

Key McCormick brands include McCormick, Old Bay Seasoning, Ducros, Schwartz, Schilling and Lawry’s. The company also operates food service and industrial flavor units.

McCormick representatives did not respond to request for comment as this story went live.