Zagreb, September 2023 – Vlahovic Group conducted the “Investment in Government Relations and Public Affairs Functions by Companies Operating in CEE” research project. We are excited to share with you the first results which provide unique market insights into this sector and a new perspective from a generally unexplored industry in the region.

Vlahovic Group is constantly striving to improve our services to better serve the needs of our clients and to raise the awareness of the value public affairs and government relations bring. Following this commitment, VG conducted a survey among multinational companies operating in the CEE and Western Balkans/Adria regions to gain a deeper understanding of their current and projected practices and spending budgets for public affairs service providers.

The objective of the “Investment in Government Relations and Public Affairs Functions by Companies Operating in CEE” research project is to highlight the value of government relations and public affairs services and to encourage investing in larger budgets for more complex and multimarket public affairs campaigns. We believe the survey results make an important step towards achieving it because the available information can help multinational corporations in evaluating how to use their public affairs budget.

Here are the key takeaways from our research:

1. 1. Recognition of value: CEE market recognizes the value and potential of public affairs service providers as 64% of our respondents have previously engaged with them
   2. Budget insights: On average, companies in the CEE region allocate approximately €37,000 annually for public affairs activities
   3. Demand drivers: Primary driving forces behind the utilization of public affairs services in this region are: regulatory framework changes, country-specific investment cycles and country-specific political trends

The entire survey results are available by clicking on the pictures above, or here.

We hope that these insights will bring value to your organization as you navigate the intricate landscape of public affairs and government relations in the CEE and Western Balkans/Adria regions.

In case you would like to share your questions and observations, or discuss how Vlahovic Group can further support your public affairs efforts in the Western Balkans/Adria region, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Vlahovic Group stays committed to positioning and developing public affairs in the CEE markets.