Cumbrian-headquartered PR agency 32West has ranked in the top 20 national firms operating in the public sector.

Now sitting at number 17, 32West leaped five places in the PRWeek Top 150.

32West, serving clients throughout the north of England and south of Scotland, remained the sole representative from across Cumbria, Lancashire, the North East and the Borders within the top 25, and one of only five companies based in the north.

32West was recognised for its extensive work across various areas in the public sector, including local government, governmental departments, and public sector-funded organisations.

Its revenues within the public sector surged by 40 per cent in the financial year 2023-24 compared to the previous year, marking the fourth highest increase among businesses listed.

10 of the top 25 firms experienced revenue downturns during the same period.

James Higgins, director at 32West, said: "We are delighted to feature so highly in the PRWeek rankings, the industry bible for PR and communications firms in the UK, and it is down to the excellent work our team carries out every day for our clients operating in the public sector.

“It is great to represent the north in a list typically dominated by firms operating in and around London, and it’s great recognition of the work being done across the regions we serve.”

The company just missed out on a PRWeek’s top 50 placement for agencies outside London, ranking in 51st spot.

Founded in 2018, it recently added two new members to its team, increasing the total to 14.

Based in Ulverston, it also maintains offices in Carlisle, West Cumbria and Newcastle.