Pfizer Animal Genetics to Partner with Charleston|Orwig 

HARTLAND, Wis. (May 30, 2008)—Pfizer Animal Genetics has announced the selection of Charleston|Orwig as its marketing and communications firm. Charleston|Orwig will assist Pfizer Animal Genetics with introducing and establishing its new brand as the global leader in livestock genomics. Initially, the agency will help develop new public relations and customer advocacy strategies to effectively position Pfizer as a leader in this category. 

“Our goal in finding a partner to help us enter into livestock genomics was to identify someone whose business acumen could provide strategic insights and campaign development and then execute them globally,” says Doug Ricke, Director of Marketing for Pfizer Animal Genetics. “We found that experience at Charleston|Orwig.” 

In March Pfizer announced the purchase of two genetics companies, Catapult Genetics and Bovigen, and the creation of Pfizer Animal Genetics as a business unit of Pfizer Animal Health. The product offerings include genetic markers for traits leading to greater management efficiencies, and improved meat and carcass quality. More product offerings are currently in development. 

“The entry of Pfizer Animal Health into bovine genomics further demonstrates its commitment to livestock producers and the entire industry,” says Lyle Orwig, co-founder and CEO of Charleston|Orwig, Inc. “Together we aim to position Pfizer Animal Genetics as the leader in the genomics industry, and we’re looking forward to our new partnership.” 

Headquartered in the United States, Pfizer Animal Genetics is the livestock genetics/genomics business unit of Pfizer Animal Health, a world leader in discovering and developing innovative animal vaccines and prescription medicines. Pfizer Inc. is the world’s largest research-based pharmaceutical company. 

Charleston|Orwig, based in Hartland, Wis., is a full-service communications firm, with core competencies in agricultural marketing communications, public relations and issues management. The agency complements these services with expertise in branding and campaign development and interactive services.

###