Torchia Communications and Staples Business Depot Join Forces on Several Projects
It’s been an extremely active time for Staples Business Depot, and Torchia Communications has had a prominent role in the development of several promotional projects conducted by Canada’s leader in office supplies and business services to small businesses and home-office customers.   The company enlisted the help of TC to carry out media relations for such programs as the 15th anniversary celebrations, the launching of the “Mailmate” personal mail shredder and a campaign positioning Staples Business Depot as one of the best sources for “unexpected gifts” and technology products.
The summer at TC: putting the pedal to the metal!
Canadians are motor-racing fans, and this ardent interest was again much in evidence this summer at various racing events which evoked widespread passion for the sport. Whether the people involved in these racing events were sponsors, promoters or drivers, they all ran on the highest performing octane in the public relations field – the one provided by Torchia Communications’ consultants! Here’s a brief recap of the mandates in which TC contributed to the success of its clients:
Bridgestone: Logistics and media relations surrounding Bridgestone’s annual décor program involving Montreal`s downtown merchants, who draw on their creativity to dress up the most attractive, racing-themed window display, and overseeing Open House activities at circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on the Thursday prior to the Canadian Grand Prix race.   Jacques Villeneuve: The Quebec driver’s get-together with the media during Formula One Grand Prix week in Montreal, remains one of the highly anticipated events of that week, monopolizing the attention of the media, who were able to chat with the former world champion in auto-dealer BMW Canbec’s intimate and convivial setting.   BMW Pit Lane Park: Set up in the parking lot across from the Bell Centre, this theme park designed by the BMW-Sauber team enjoyed an unprecedented success, providing fans with the opportunity to go behind the motorsports scene, and also get a front-row view of breathtaking demonstrations, notably the sight of a genuine F1 car doing « donuts » in downtown Montreal! BBF Promotions and Events: This hub of popular motorsports-related activities on Crescent Street, in Montreal’s downtown core, lived up to its reputation with the staging of events with considerable public appeal – the Canadian Grand Prix Festival, MotoFest and the Ford Racing Festival, which was part of the Champ Car Grand Prix.   Tide@Wal-Mart Victory Lap: In its fourth consecutive year, this cross-Canada tour in Wal-Mart stores in an effort to raise funds for sick children, has reached new heights thanks to the participation of a growing number of partners who have teamed up with Procter & Gamble, and the involvement of Champ Car driver Andrew Ranger, the campaign spokesperson.   Wal-Mart/Opération Enfant Soleil: On the heels of the success of the Victory Lap TourVictory Lap, Wal-Mart followed up by supporting the Champ Car Grand Prix of Montreal through a large-scale ticket-selling operation exclusively for Wal-Mart customers, with proceeds going to the Children’s Miracle Network affiliate, Opération Enfant Soleil, and by displaying its colours on driver Andrew Ranger’s car for the Montreal race and the last three races on the Champ Car schedule.   Champ Car Grand Prix of Montreal: TC carried out of a number of activities to ensure widespread exposure for this major international event (press conferences, sending out releases, regional tours, a downtown event featuring cars and transporters, setting up interviews with promoter Alan Labrosse and media relations during the weekend of the race), which was in its fifth year in Montreal.
Smashing success for the L’Oréal Professionnel runway style Competition
For the second consecutive year, L’Oréal Professionnel orchestrated the runway style competition, a hairstyling event providing young hairstylists with the chance to be an active part of fashion week in Paris. Torchia Communications was in charge of public relations for the event. As L’Oréal Professionnel’s appointed agency, Torchia Communications also contributed to gaining exposure for several events and product launches throughout 2006, including the L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy, the 2006-07 fall-and-winter colour collection, and such product lines as play ball, Richesse and Hi. Richesse, vitamino color and lumino contrast.
Torchia Communications continues supporting Medical Intelligence as it moves into the Spanish market
After putting the final touches to the marketing of the Columba bracelet in France, and recording its first sales, Medical Intelligence Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: MIZ), the industry leader in personal mobile telesecurity, created a Spanish affiliate,Medical Seguridad SL, which will oversee all of its operations in Spain. This initiative follows the measures undertaken by the Medical Intelligence Technologies group to market its products in Spain, the second largest target market after France      Torchia Communications is the agency of record for Medical Intelligence in Canada.
New clients at Torchia Communications
Torchia Communications is proud to announce that five new clients have recently come on board: RONA, Playground, PALM communication marketing and the Canadian Public Relations Society. Torchia Communications provided internal and external public relations and event management services to help inaugurate RONA's newest Home & Garden outlet in Barrie, Ontario and groundbreaking ceremonies in Scarborough, Ontario. The agency has recently become RONA's public relations partner for the Ontario market along with special national mandates.   Playground, a division of the Intrawest company working in the resort real-estate sales and marketing services, mandated Torchia Communications to support its ongoing PR plans for Tremblant’s new real-restate development, Versant Soleil.   Torchia Communications consultants are helping to shape the future of public relations through their time, talents and contribution to the Canadian Public Relations Society. Several members of the agency have earned positions on the board of local CPRS Chapters and the agency is helping to support special projects.
Torchia Communications teams up with PALM Communication Marketing
PALM communication marketing entrusted Torchia Communications’ media relations services to help generate visibility for the Volkswagen-Trek cycling team and its main sponsor, Volkswagen.
A busy summer for Epiderma
Epiderma, Canada’s leading laser hair removal network, recently opened a new clinic in London (Ontario), bringing to four the number of the company’s clinics in this province. Torchia Communications’ mandate was to generate visibility for the new clinic and line up interviews for Epiderma spokespeople in the local media.  Torchia Communications had also provided its public relations services to Epiderma for the company’s announcement it had obtained its ISO 9001-2000 certification, and also for the launch of the Epiderma BIO product line last spring.
Torchia Communications in step with the Wal-Mart Walk for Miracles
		Held for the first time in Montreal, the Wal-Mart Walk for Miracles took its first steps to rally the public in support of sick children, at a press conference conducted by Torchia Communications. This major fund-raising activity, whose objective is to collect $500,000 on behalf of Opération Enfant Soleil, a member of the Children’s Miracle Network, is taking place on June 11, 2006, at Jean-Drapeau Park on Île Sainte-Hélène.
The initiative was announced in the presence of Chantal Glenisson, Quebec Region Vice-President of Operations for Wal-Mart Canada, Louise Déry-Goldberg, a member of Opération Enfant Soleil’s board of directors and president of the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation, and race-car driver Andrew Ranger, the honourary spokesperson for the event. For all of the pertinent details about this event, which is being held simultaneously in eight Canadian cities, please go to the website at www.walmartwalkformiracles.ca
P&G Canada Teams with Torchia Communications on Yearlong Campaign in Wal-Mart Stores
Procter & Gamble Canada wants to make life easier for families and it has enlisted the support of Torchia Communications for a national campaign to assist them in spreading the message to numerous stakeholders. February marked the start of a yearlong, multi-faceted program that P&G is running in Wal-Mart stores across Canada. The program consists of a number of components - simple solutions to efficiently address time-consuming household chores, caring for the baby and, for moms in particular, finding some time to devote to themselves while shopping for their families.
Torchia Communications Helps Pizza Pizza and Pepsi Introduce Pizzazzy Contest
Promotional contests have come a long way from the days when a person filled out an entry form, answered a skill-testing question and put their name into the bin along with so many others. Torchia Communications recently announced the “Find the Flashing Can” contest, a collaborative effort by Pizza Pizza and Pepsi-Cola Canada. The contest, which is being rolled out throughout the Ontario network of traditional Pizza Pizza restaurants, is a first in its kind within the restaurant industry. The campaign features more than two million specially made Pepsi cans, 305 of which have been fitted with a unique sensor device that produces an orange flash once the can is opened. Consumers who have been flashed win a Video iPod, valued at $379.
Torchia Communications helps build momentum for Rona’s multi-million dollar support program to canadian olympic athletes
With a launch as ambitious as the program itself, Torchia Communications helped set the stage for RONA’s announcement of a five-year funding initiative worth a minimum of $4 million to help 100 Canadian Olympians achieve their dream. In a simulcast news conference held simultaneously in Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal, Canada’s leading distributor and retailer of hardware, home improvement and gardening products, launched its “Growing with Our Athletes” program, which is hailed as one of the most important corporate support initiatives to be undertaken in conjunction with the Canadian Olympic movement. RONA will be sponsoring 100 young athletes as chosen by the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC), in consultation with its member National Sport Federations, as strong prospects for the 2008 or 2010 Olympic Games. These athletes, from across the country, will receive financial support from RONA to help them offset living, training and competition expenses. The program also has an in-store fundraising component which RONA projects could provide an additional $2 million in incremental funds for the athletes over the five-year span.By purchasing a special “RONA Renovation Kit”, the community will be able to lend financial support to the designated athlete in its geographical area. The stores will then be able to engage in additional fundraising and community activities to provide further support for their athletes.
Bridgestone Firestone Canada taps Torchia Communications to re-design two of its web sites
Bridgestone Firestone Canada (BFCA) recently assigned Torchia Communications the mandate of overseeing and coordinating the redesign of two of its web sites – the Bridgestone Photo Contest (www.bridgestonephoto.com) and the Bridgestone Truck Hero Award (www.truckhero.ca) sites. The Toronto firm Pulp & Fiber was in charge of the graphic design and web-site programming, under the supervision of Torchia Communications. Torchia Communications has been handling all the logistical and communications aspects of the Truck Hero Award and the Photo Contest on behalf of BFCA for the past two years.
Torchia Communications and EPIDERMA: A Winning Combination
For a third straight year, EPIDERMA has tabbed Torchia Communications to develop and implement a public relations plan aimed at increasing awareness for the brand and the scope of its products and services. EPIDERMA, which recently expanded its operations to the Ontario market, is the largest laser hair removal network in Canada with 19 clinics and 54 treatment centres.
Torchia Communications assists Pizza Pizza with the launch of the new Deep Dish Pan Pizza
Pizza Pizza is going deep to start the new year. That’s deep, as in Italian Style Deep Dish Pan Pizza, one of several new menu items Pizza Pizza introduces this month in its close to 400 traditional restaurants. The company enlisted Torchia Communications to help with the promotional activities surrounding the launch of the new pizza. Pizza Pizza’s foray into the pan-pizza market is seen as a well-calculated business strategy that reinforces its status in the industry. “We understand our consumers and believe the time is ripe to enter the pan-pizza market,” stated Mr. Finelli. “Continual innovation and product development has served us well in the past and will likely help us grow our market share, both in the Quick Service Restaurant industry (QSR) and pizza market.”
Torchia Communications teams up with Astral Media for the launch of radiolibre.ca
The new year is getting off to a rousing start for music enthusiasts. They now have an incomparable freedom of choice in music listening and access to a mega play-list with the arrival of radiolibre.ca, a new personalized, bilingual service of musical discovery on the Internet. The website is designed to provide its users with the opportunity to listen to – or create their own – musical profiles tailored to their tastes. They become the DJ of their own programming and can share their favourite music with other users, thereby enabling music buffs to swap songs and discover previously unheralded local and international talent. Torchia Communications was mandated by Astral Media to develop radiolibre.ca’s communications tools and devise a strategic plan targeting the blogs. www.radiolibre.ca
Torchia Communications Gets 2006 off to Rousing Start
Toronto, January 15, 2006 – Torchia Communications, one of the country’s leading independent public relations firms, is beginning the year with some significant developments that tie into the company’s growth plans for the Toronto market. The agency has added a consultant, Rachelle El-Achhab, formerly a communications officer with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board and public affairs assistant for the Region of Peel. Ms. El-Achhab, an honours graduate at York University and Humber College’s public relations program, will contribute to a number of accounts in the foodservice, consumer packaged goods, automotive and beauty products industries. Rachelle will be joining the agency’s Toronto office, managed by Daniel Torchia. Mr.Torchia, the Canadian Public Relations Society’s Young PR Professional of the Year in 2003, obtained his professional accreditation – APR – from the CPRS earlier this month, further enhancing his impressive industry credentials. The APR is an industry-wide standard that recognizes the highest level of competence and ability in the PR profession. Torchia Communications, a full-service national agency, has offices in Toronto and Montreal.
Torchia Communications celebrates its fifth anniversary under its current banner
On July 1st 2005,Torchia Communications, whose origins date back to 1972, celebrated its fifth anniversary under its current banner - a first milestone that we have achieved through the diligent efforts of our staff and the loyalty of some 150 new clients. As we celebrate this fifth anniversary of our founding, we would like to touch on some of the highlights of the first five years and provide you with an overview of our capabilities to address any and all of your communications needs.
What have Torchia Communications and its clients beenable to accomplish in the first five years? Plenty. We have evolved into a highly diversified, full-service agency that touches virtually every sector. The clients for whom we have provided services include those in such fields as consumer, retail, automotive, pharmaceuticals, tourism, service industry, finance, corporate, food and beverage, sports, arts, culture, entertainment, fashion, special events, crisis management and a whole lot more. We are proud to note that approximately 85% of our clients are “referrals”, and this word-of-mouth process of building a reputable business has enabled Torchia Communications, which has offices in Montreal and Toronto, to consistently rank among the top successful PR companies in Canada.     We have strived, in every way possible, to live up to the motto we adopted from day one: we don’t necessarily want to the biggest PR agency, we want to be the best. We established very precise guidelines from the outset and we are committed to ensuring we adhere to these principles. This means that we treat the smallest account in the same manner as the multi-national. It also means that, in addition, to benefiting from the knowledge, expertise and innovative spirit of a staff that is a productive mix of seasoned professionals and enthusiastic young practitioners, our clients also receive the hands-on involvement of the agency’s principals. And it begins with a candid assessment of the mandate at hand: we tell clients what they need, versus what they want to hear. We are an independent, family-run agency that regards its employees as family members, and treats them as such. Our staff has the leeway to be cutting-edge and provocative in going outside the boundaries of standard PR – and over these first five years they have done remarkable, award-winning work. We invite you to visit our website at www.torchiacom.com for more information on the agency and its heritage.   We look forward to approaching our next milestone with optimism and enthusiasm. We are poised to tackle the challenges of the future, and we sincerely hope that we might someday be granted the opportunity to work with you in helping you to achieve your communications goals.
Alcan turns to Torchia for senior strategic communications counsel
Global leader in aluminum and packaging, Alcan has retained the services of Torchia Communications for strategic communications counsel. The world’s second largest producer of primary aluminum, Alcan employs almost 70,000 people and has operating facilities in 55 countries and regions.
Epiderma and Torchia Communications teaming up again for the opening of two clinics in the Ottawa region
EPIDERMA, Canada’s largest laser hair removal network, opened two new clinics in the Ontario market – specifically Orleans and Kanata in the Ottawa region – and it has again tapped Torchia Communications to handle the media and public relations components for the company’s continued expansion. EPIDERMA, whose head office is in Sainte-Foy, Quebec, opened its first Ontario clinic in Kingston in the summer of 2005. The laser hair removal industry pioneer currently has 19 clinics, 54 treatment centres and 175 partners. As its network continues to grow, it has consistently called on Torchia Communications to develop and implement strategies to raise its business profile. www.epiderma.ca
Gestiopharma enlists services of Torchia Communications
GESTIOPHARMA, a private company that develops business opportunities for clinician pharmacists using a personalized and unique concept in the dispensing of medical services, recently retained Torchia Communications to carry out its 2005-06 communications and PR plan. The company is planning to opening its first such pharmacy concept next spring. Torchia Communications will orchestrate the launch.
RSM Richter has entrusted Torchia Communications to launch its new diagnostic tool
Innovation has always been a hallmark of RSM Richter, the Montreal-based accounting and consulting firm, and its recent breakthrough is no exception. RSM Richter has devised a unique diagnostic tool that enables small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) to obtain benchmarking in relation to grown factors – measuring their performance against their counterparts in the same business sector. RSM Richter, which has been associated with Torchia Communications on a number of initiatives, has entrusted TC with the media and PR operations to publicize the new product, developed in collaboration with Jacques Nantel, the firm’s university partner, which was unveiled to the media during a roundtable session in November. scale.rsmrichter.com
A new specialized physiotherapy clinic opens in Laval The city of Laval has just been enriched by the arrival of a new sports physiotherapy clinic specializing in hands-on therapy. Founded by Diane Racette and Sylvain St-Amour, the clinic, known as Physioactif, offers special consulting services to its clients, as well as the opportunity for physiotherapy professions to upgrade their expertise in the field through the clinic’s professional training program. The company has turned to Torchia Communications for the developing and implementation of its overall communications and public relations program in 2005-06.
Bridgestone and Torchia Communications: a fall season in fourth gear
Bridgestone Firestone Canada (BFCA) and Torchia Communications are extremely active this fall, with several newsworthy events: Canadian Car of the Year TestFest (October 26-30) Members of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) get together every year for a five-day session in Shannonville (Ontario) to test drive cars eligible for the award and from these tests they select the Canadian Car of the Year. In addition to sponsoring AJAC, Bridgestone Firestone Canada is one of the three main sponsors of TestFest. Torchia Communications’ mandate was to manage Bridgestone’s sponsorship, ensuring BFCA’s visibility throughout the week of activities. Bridgestone Firestone Canadian Truck Hero Award (mid-November) The award (a $3,000 cash prize) is bestowed by BFCA during the annual convention of the Ontario Trucking Association on a Canadian trucker who has demonstrated courage, quick thinking and integrity in the face of emergency. Torchia Communications’ role is to promote the nomination process for the award and to manage the entire process leading to the selection of the winner. TC also manages the contest’s web site: www.truckhero.ca. Bridgestone Photography Contest (mid-December) This year’s Bridgestone Photography Contest is open to 12 schools, selected across the country, offering a study program in photography. Students must meet specific selection criteria, demonstrating their ability in the craft while depicting a Bridgestone or Firestone tire in their photographic work. A number of cash prizes ($35,000 in all) are awarded to the winners.  BFCA assigned Torchia Communications with the overall logistical management of the contest and its website: www.bridgestonephoto.com.
Capri Films gets set to begin filming “Villeneuve”
AToronto-based Capri Films is a leading film production and distribution house. Through the leadership of its president and producer, Gabriella Martinelli, and its three affiliates, the company oversees the creation, production, management and distribution of major Canadian films for cinema, television and home video. Capri Films’ current project is the eagerly awaited movie "Villeneuve", based on the life of legendary Canadian race-car driver Gilles Villeneuve. Torchia Communications has been entrusted by Capri Films as its agency of record to handle the communications and media relations aspects surrounding the film.
Quebec invention by Medical Intelligence to make marketplace debut in France
As the PR agency for Medical Intelligence Technologies Inc., Torchia Communications is in charge of media relations relating to the first global distribution of the Columba phone-bracelet, a revolutionary alarm device for Alzheimer’s patients that will be available in all pharmacies in France imminently.   Medical Intelligence, a Quebec-based company, is a leader in the personal medical tele-security industry, integrating information technology and telecommunications in the health sector. The company creates and develops portable telemetric medical devices for people with cognitive disorders and cardiovascular problems.
Torchia Communications: counseling agency for Novopharm
Novopharm, one of Canada’s leaders in generic healthcare solutions, has retained the services of Torchia Communications for strategic communications counsel. The Scarborough (Ontario) based Novopharm is a subsidiary of TEVA, the world’s largest generic pharmaceutical  company.
Time to Celebrate as Pizza Pizza Marks Pizza’s Centennial Year in North America
Pizza officially arrived in North America exactly 100 years ago, and with the help of Torchia Communications, Pizza Pizza recognized this “slice of history” in a special way throughout October - National Pizza Month.
Pizza has achieved iconic status in the century span since Gennaro Lombardi, commonly acknowledged as North America’s pizza pioneer, opened the continent’s first licensed pizzeria in New York City in 1905. Pizza has evolved into a $4 billion industry in North America, with close to 70,000 pizzerias in operation, including 6,000 in Canada. Founded in 1967, Pizza Pizza is one of Canada’s most successful pizza and quick-service restaurant operators. To mark the occasion, Torchia Communications helped develop an integrated marketing communications program that included an online trivia contest to test consumers’ knowledge of pizza-related topics, for example: What NHL team won the Stanley Cup in 1967, the year Pizza Pizza opened its first restaurant? a) Canadiens  b) Red Wings c) Maple Leafs  d) Black Hawks   What pizza-related tune climbed to No. 2 on the U.S. music charts in 1953? a) That’s Amore b) I Lova Da Pizza  c) Songs for Pizza Lovers  d) Pizza Deliverance The program was a resounding success with consumers, media, and other important audience groups.
Trioomph company launches new concept
Founded by François-Charles Sirois, the Trioomph company has launched a unique concept aimed at car enthusiasts that combines sports-car driving and the extraordinary experience of testing exotic sports cars on the race track at Mont-Tremblant.  After assigning Torchia Communications the targeted media operations for this innovative project this past summer, Trioomph has again called on its services to carry out a "B2B" operation in Québec and Ontario to promote its package deals for companies.
Midland Group has the magic touch in Montreal
Midland Group, a Toronto-based leader in global trading, industry and emerging markets, selected Torchia Communications as its partner for the organization of a high-impact special event leading into the hectic and glitzy Canadian Grand Prix race weekend. The event introduced Midland, its drivers and management to local movers and shakers, as well as international audiences that faithfully follow the F1 circuit. Midland is approaching Formula One racing as it does its other business entities – with a focus on returns, relationships, and results.
Torchia Communications contributes to the resounding success of the Canadian Grand Prix Festival on Crescent Street
The 7th edition of the Crescent Street Grand Prix of Canada Festival in Montreal, June 9-11, was an extraordinary success, with crowds turning out in record numbers for the three days of activities. More than 400,000 joined in the merriment of Grand Prix week on one of the city’s most vibrant streets.  The Torchia Communications team, mandated by BBF Promotions et Événements, which created and ran the festival, is delighted that it was able to contribute to this tremendous success by helping to generate extensive exposure through a bilingual and multifaceted media relations campaign.
Pizza Pizza ushers in new family member with help of Torchia Communications
Pizza Pizza Ltd., the Toronto-based company that is Canada’s leading pizza operator and has become, during its 38-year history, an integral part of the 480 neighbourhoods it serves, is entering the chicken sector. The first Chicken Chicken eatery, which will be sharing space with Pizza Pizza, has opened its doors in the greater Toronto area, and the company plans to open several other twin-brand eateries over the next year. Torchia Communications is providing communications counsel and services to help position the brand among various audience groups including communities, media, and through various promotions. Pat Finelli, Vice-President of Marketing with Pizza Pizza, said the Chicken Chicken brand is being introduced to fill a need expressed by consumers. Pizza Pizza Ltd. is basing its Chicken Chicken family eateries on the same values of quality, freshness and service excellence personified by Pizza Pizza.
Procter & Gamble and Budding Star Andrew Ranger Assign Mandates to Torchia Communications
Procter & Gamble has retained the services of Torchia Communications for a public relations mandate in conjunction with "Tide Victory Lap at Wal-Mart", a national promotion that ties into the company’s sponsorship of race-car driver Andrew Ranger in the ChampCar series. The promotion features a nation-wide tour in 80 Wal-Mart stores between now and September. Torchia Communications has also been assigned the mandate of organizing press conferences for Andrew Ranger in the three Canadian markets that will be playing host to a ChampCar race this summer: Montreal, Toronto and Edmonton.
Torchia Communications is honoured at Ovation Gala
The Torchia Communications staff earned a glowing tribute from its peers on Thursday evening when it received a Merit Award at the ninth edition of the Ovation Gala, held at the Europa Hotel in Montreal. In bestowing the award at this event, which honours the top communicators of the year, the Montreal chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) singled out TC for its exceptional work in developing and executing a communications plan for the opening of the W Hotel in Montreal. Torchia Communications, which won the award in the “External Communications” category, would like to share this honour with W Montreal general manager Isabel Fagnan and with all of its collaborators that contributed to the mandate’s resounding success.
Winter Tire Demonstration
Following national coverage generated by Torchia Communications for Bridgestone / Firestone Canada, the Insurance Bureau of Canada contacted the agency to carry out a winter tire demonstration on an ice-rink during Injury Prevention Month in North Bay, Ontario. Torchia Communications managed media relations and event logistics for the tire demonstration including securing on-site signage, vehicles, and qualified driving instructors, who were required to expertly maneuver the vehicle and explain tire performance on ice.  The demonstration took place following a hockey game in front of approximately 1,500 people, and helped increase local awareness for Injury Prevention Month.
Young motor-racing sensation Andrew Ranger gets a ride in the Champ Car series Torchia helps in making his entry a smooth one
		Canadian race-car driver Andrew Ranger, who is just barely 18 years of age, announced at a March 21 news conference that he has signed with Mi-Jack Conquest Racing to compete in the 2005 Champ Car series.
Torchia Communications was called upon to ensure that Ranger’s entry into the big leagues would be implemented in a strategic manner from a PR perspective. The mandate included overseeing media relations efforts around Andrew Ranger, positioning Eric Bachelart, the owner of the Mi-Jack Conquest Racing team, to local media, and managing the logistics surrounding the news conference.
Toronto film producer Capri Films casts Torchia Communications to help announce the production of a film on Gilles Villeneuve
At a February 24 news conference with race-car driver Jacques Villeneuve on hand, Capri Films announced that filming is about to begin for a movie on the life of famed Formula One driver, Jacques’s father, Gilles Villeneuve. In addition to collaborating on the logistical elements of the news conference, Torchia Communications managed media relations efforts around Jacques Villeneuve, the former F1 champion who is driving for the Sauber-Petronas team this season.
The Old Brewery Mission and Torchia Communications continue their productive association
The Old Brewery Mission, a non-profit organization that provides a range of services to homeless men and women in Montreal, recently assigned Torchia Communications two public relations mandates. Last December, the Old Brewery Mission issued an appeal to the various levels of government to lend their help in dealing with the growing incidence of homelessness. The Mission called on Torchia Communications to help the organization convey the message through media channels. More recently, TC was again mandated by the Mission in conjunction with an important announcement regarding the cancelling of its $1 charge for evening meals served in its shelters.    In both instances, TC oversaw various PR initiatives that helped generate awareness for the Mission, its programs and Executive Director, Mr. James Hughes.
Liandrea Productions tabs Torchia Communications for promotion of its Bringing Baby Home video
Liandrea Productions, an exciting new Canadian company that has produced Bringing Baby Home, a visual guide for new parents, recently called on Torchia Communications to provide promotional support for the innovative product with its target public. Unique in its particular genre, the video is designed to demystify, in a practical and entertaining way, the art of becoming a parent.  Torchia Communications is in charge of media relations in the province of Quebec, setting up interview bookings and overseeing certain promotional operations.
Epiderma renews its partnership with Torchia Communications
For a second straight year, EPIDERMA has tabbed Torchia Communications to develop and implement a public relations plan aimed at increasing awareness for the brand and the scope of its products and services. Torchia Communications will highlight the achievements of the largest laser hair removal network in Canada, one that is poised to make its entry into the Ontario market in 2005.
Pizza Pizza reinforces commitment to customer service with revolutionary new promise: It's Hot or It's Free!
It's hot or it’s on the house!  Pizza Pizza’s revolutionary new heated delivery bags with LED temperature reading displays allow Pizza Pizza to guarantee that the pizza arrives at your door at a minimum temperature of 60° Celsius or it’s free.
W Hotels and Torchia Communications combine style and substance to mark opening of W Montréal
W Hotels, a collection of world-class hotels in some of the most vibrant cities on the planet, made its bold entry into the Canadian market with the opening of  W Montréal and Torchia Communications is proud to have played an integral part in the success of its launch. Torchia Communications helped bring  W Montréal’s unique balance of comfort and leading design to life by staging a sneak preview for the press on the eve of the official opening before overseeing media relations for the launch party, which was one of the most talked-about events on the Montreal social calendar.
24 Hours of Tremblant and Torchia Communications: a sustained collaborative effort!
The 4th edition of 24 Hours of Tremblant, a ski marathon under the co-patronage of Jacques Villeneuve and Craig Pollock on behalf of the Charles-Bruneau Foundation that provides help to youngsters stricken by childhood cancer, is being held soon at Tremblant. In advance of the event, Torchia Communications staged a news conference at Newtown restaurant on November 17 to announce the weekend's schedule of activities.
John Scotti retains the services of Torchia Communications for the unveiling of the new Land Rover
A gleaming new sports utility vehicle, the LR3, is now appearing on Quebec roadways. It’s the latest in the Land Rover line, and to mark the arrival of the new kid on the block, John Scotti Automotive Ltd. called on Torchia Communications to coordinate its official unveiling, a ceremony that occurred at the Land Rover St-Léonard dealership on November 10, with more than 100 distinguished guests in attendance.
Quebec company Medical Intelligence again enlists Torchia Communications for Parisian world premiere of breakthrough cardiac alert system
In November 2003, following three years of research, Medical Intelligence, led by its president Louis Massicotte, announced at a packed news conference organized by Torchia Communications, that the company had developed a revolutionary invention. Called the VPS™ (Vital Positioning System), it is the first portable automatic cardiac alert system. Less than a year later, the Quebec firm, which specializes in human tele-security, went from the prototype phase to the clinical application of the device. The new 12-lead ECG derivation VPS™ was introduced in France with resounding success, at the Sixth Francophone Interventional Cardiology Convention. Torchia Communications was assigned the mandate of coordinating interviews requested by the Quebec media, in conjunction with a news conference that took place in Paris on October 12.
Villeneuve-Pollock duo teams up with Torchia Communications in F1 Racing return
After a one-year hiatus, Jacques Villeneuve, the only Canadian driver to win a Formula One championship, has returned to the world’s top racing circuit, driving for the Renault entry until the end of this season and signing up as a driver for Sauber-Petronas in 2005-06. A long-time client of Torchia Communications, Villeneuve and his agent, Craig Pollock, mandated the agency to provide strategic counsel and media relations services throughout the negotiation process that led to this latest initiative, which is exciting news for the many fans of Villeneuve and racing enthusiasts in general. Recently, Villeneuve provided the media with extensive details about his career moves in a conference call. Torchia Communications has conducted similar media-relations efforts on behalf of Villeneuve and Pollock for the last several years, notably with Player’s racing program, British American Racing, the GP 24 Hours of Tremblant, as well as his victory celebration at Molson Centre and Newtown Restaurant. “Both Jacques and Craig are valued clients and friends of our agency, and we are elated that they have returned to an endeavor that has been such a big part of their respective lives over the years,” said Torchia Communications president Jean-Claude Torchia. “I know that racing fans in Canada, and indeed throughout the world, join us in wishing Jacques’ comeback much success.”
W Hotels Retains Torchia Communications for Expansion into Canada
Introduced by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in 1998, W Hotels has selected Montreal as the site of its first Canadian property, deeming the city’s vibrancy and distinctive character to be a perfect fit with the W concept. The collection of world-class hotels, with its unique balance of comfort and leading design, will support the late summer opening of W Montréal with a multifaceted marketing communications program to include advertising, special events and public relations across Canada. Known for its creative marketing programs ranging from downloadable music packages to exclusive luxury automobile test-drives, W Hotels has selected Torchia Communications for national public relations services. Currently, there are 19 W Hotels in some of the most exciting neighbourhoods in cities across the United States and around the world, in the heart of business districts, shopping, dining and nightlife.
SONOMAX
Torchia Communications was appointed by Montreal-based Sonomax Hearing Healthcare Inc. to conduct a public relations campaign to raise public awareness, - particularly among employers and specialized workforce subjected to high levels of noise pollution in their workplace - about an innovative hearing protection system it developed and markets in an effort to eliminate incidences of noise-induced hearing loss. This unique product is a revolutionary solution to the #1 occupational affliction in Canada. For more information on Sonomax, please visit www.sonomax.com The company is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “SHH”.
Pizza Pizza introduces its latest line of gourmet salad creations and reaffirms its commitment to offering healthier lifestyle choices
		Long-time leader in industry innovation, Pizza Pizza reinforced its commitment to offering healthier lifestyle choices with the introduction of a new line of Gourmet Salads now available at all 350 restaurants and other non-traditional Pizza Pizza outlets across Canada. Three new salads - Strawberry Sensation, Tuscan Chicken, and Mandarin Chicken - comprise the new Gourmet Salad selection recently introduced, bringing to five the full line of salads now featured on Pizza Pizza menus. Traditional Caesar Salad and fresh Garden Salad are also available, with light dressing and additional ingredients such as cheese, chicken, and bacon optional. All Pizza Pizza salad dressings are by Renée’s. Media Room : complete details about the event
EPIDERMA, the largest chain of laser hair removal clinics in Quebec, has just signed on with Torchia Communications for the execution of a year-long awareness campaign
		EPIDERMA, the largest chain of laser hair removal clinics in Quebec, has just signed on with Torchia Communications for the execution of a year-long awareness campaign. The public relations strategic plan will include the development of media activities in Quebec and Montreal, along with interview bookings.
Torchia Communications Directs Quebec Debut of Rogers Video
		Rogers Video, the largest Canadian-owned specialty video retailer, is entering the Quebec marketplace for the first time - and it has called on the services of Torchia Communications to provide public relations support in this ambitious venture.
The partnership got off to a resounding start on March 3, with a movie-set-designed news conference to announce the arrival of Rogers Video in the province. The first store will open on April 6 and will be followed by about ten additional retail outlets by the end of 2004. Ensuing years should see 10 to 12 stores opening each year in the greater Montreal area and across the province. Torchia Communications will be responsible for all aspects of the public relations program. "We're honored to have the privilege of working with such a highly dynamic and professional organization," said Jean-Claude Torchia, president of Torchia Communications. "Our recent assignments with Canadian leaders such as Rogers Video testify to the quality and energy of our consultants across Canada." Media Room : complete details about the event
Bridgestone/Firestone Canada has tabbed Torchia Communications to manage its media relations
		For a third straight year, Bridgestone/Firestone Canada has tabbed Torchia Communications to manage its media relations and its popular activities related to the company’s involvement in motor-racing.
Torchia Communications will be showcasing Bridgestone/Firestone’s achievements in F1 and the Champ Car and IRL series, as well as the company’s new-product announcements and organizing a major press conference during Canadian Grand Prix week.
Torchia Communications helps the Old Brewery Mission spread the word... and the wealth!
Following its involvement last fall with the launch of the first major fund-raising campaign in the 114-year history of the Old Brewery Mission, Torchia Communications was once again called upon to generate exposure for Montreal's largest charitable organization devoted to improving conditions for the homeless. With the hiring of Montreal native James Hughes to the position of executive director, Torchia Communications went into action with targeted media initiatives aimed at increasing the notoriety of the shelter in the community and raising the profile of its new spokesperson. Media Room : complete details about the event
Concordia’s John Molson MBA International Case Competition selects Torchia Communications to draw visibility to its world-renowned event
		Involved with the competition for the last two years at the judging level, Torchia Communications was given the task this year to raise the awareness level in Canada of this 23 year-old world-renowned competition which draws 32 universities form the world over in a grueling five-day MBA case competition. Media Room : complete details about the event
Labatt chooses Torchia Communications for its moderation campaign
		La Brasserie Labatt recently mandated Torchia Communications to promote their moderation campaign on drinking and driving. With well-known former race-car driver Bertrand Godin as spokesperson, the awareness campaign took place in the Greater-Montreal area just prior to the holidays. The campaign was resoundingly successful and coverage by TV and Radio programs was extensive.
The “Grand Prix 24h de Tremblant” renews its partnership with Torchia Communications
		For the third straight year, Torchia Communications will provide media relations services in support of the “Grand Prix 24h”, which will be held December 12-14 at Tremblant, Québec.
Proceeds from this friendly endurance competition, organized and founded by Jacques Villeneuve and global entrepreneur Craig Pollock, will support the Charles Bruneau Foundation, a Quebec-based charity.
Torchia Communications Helps Launch the New ACE Banner in Quebec
		The Sodisco-Howden Group, a leading hardware products distributor to the home improvement industry, serving hardware retailers and home renovation centres across Canada, recently entrusted Torchia Communications and Armada with the mandate of launching the ACE banner in Quebec.
Torchia Communications conceived a regional communications campaign and a positioning plan in order to announce the transition from Bâtitout and Ferplus banners into ACE hardware stores. Torchia was also responsible for developing and implementing a public relations program across the province of Quebec to generate awareness and position the new banner. Media Room : complete details about the event
Leading accounting firm assigns Torchia Communications for new public relations mandate
		The Montreal office of Richter, one of the largest accounting, business advisory and consulting firms in Canada, has enlisted Torchia Communications to help raise its profile.
Part of Torchia Communications’ mandate will be to develop and implement public relations initiatives aimed at increasing the awareness of the firm in the Quebec business community, especially in the francophone market. Founded in 1926, Richter is the fifth-largest professional services firm in Quebec with 330 employees and 42 partners.
MCS Global Corp. Turns to Torchia Communications to Gain Name Change Awareness
		Erez Inc., has changed its corporate name to MCS Global Corp. The company began operating under its new name on July 15 and its common shares started trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol “MCX” on July 18.
This change of name prompted one of Canada’s pioneers in container storage services to retain Torchia Communications to orchestrate a corporate awareness campaign across the country. MCS Global Corp, formerly Erez Inc., is the holding company for MCS (Marine Container Services) Containers, an ISO-9001 company that is at the forefront in container storage services offering container sales, leasing, custom modification, repairs and development of innovative container storage concepts. MCS Containers operates a one million square foot container depot terminal and storage facility near the Port of Montreal.
Bridgestone tabs Torchia Communications to handle pre-Grand Prix press conference featuring Jacques Villeneuve
In conjunction with the annual Formula One Grand Prix race in Montreal, Torchia Communications was in charge of organizing the June 12 Bridgestone news conference, at which the guest of honour was heralded Canadian racer Jacques Villeneuve. The press conference, which in a rarity was open to the public, was held at Complexe Desjardins and attracted local and international media representatives along with a strong contingent of fans who had come to greet Jacques. Many of these loyal supporters began gathering, camera in hand, at 7:30 a.m., two hours before the start of proceedings. A few lucky spectators were able to obtain an autograph from their hero, as well as a Bridgestone-logo cap. Bridgestone is the official tire supplier to five Formula One teams. The Montreal press conference was part of a global public relations program launched by Torchia Communications in conjunction with the Canadian Grand Prix. The program included a window-display operation in the downtown core, as well as a major participation in Place Jacques-Cartier’s Festival de la Grande Course.
La Brasserie Labatt tabs Torchia Communications to trumpet its involvement in F1 Racing
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