MT Influence #20
July 8, 2025
Welcome to the latest edition of the McKenna Townsend newsletter, a round-up of the moments, milestones, and achievements that have shaped the last month across the team.
From celebrating 22 years of MT and a fantastic summer team day at The Hut, to a successful few days at Seawork and welcoming back a familiar face, there’s been plenty to shout about. We’re also looking ahead to an exciting boat show season and taking a moment to celebrate some very special team anniversaries.
22 years of MT & a day at The Hut
This June, we marked 22 incredible years of McKenna Townsend, a journey filled with creativity, growth, and meaningful impact. To celebrate this milestone and everyone’s continued hard work, we returned to the beautiful Isle of Wight for our annual summer team day, enjoying sunshine, sea air, and sensational food at The Hut at Colwell Bay. A perfect way to unwind and celebrate the team spirit that makes MT what it is.
Seawork 2025 – A standout success
Matthew McKenna FCIPR, and Charlotte Sampson Chart.PR had a brilliant few days at Seawork , Europe’s largest commercial marine and workboat event. From engaging with clients and catching up with industry leaders to exploring the latest in maritime innovation, it was a week full of insight, connections, and future opportunities.
Coeliac UK – Brilliant Results for Awareness Month
This May, for Coeliac Awareness Month, we were proud to support Coeliac UK in sparking a national conversation about the realities of living with coeliac disease, a serious autoimmune condition that affects around 1 in 100 people in the UK. Shockingly, around half a million people are still living without a diagnosis, often struggling with unexplained and debilitating symptoms.
Coverage was amplified by Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington, whose story, alongside powerful case studies from people across the UK, helped secure over 250 pieces of national and regional media coverage, from Sky News and BBC Radio to The Independent and LBC. The campaign encouraged people to ask, “Is it coeliac disease?” and to use Coeliac UK’s free online self-assessment tool– a simple first step toward getting the answers they need.
We are proud to have supported this vital campaign, helping to raise awareness of this life-changing condition and encouraging more people to seek the answers and diagnosis they need.
Celebrating Cate – 14 years at MT
We’re raising a glass to Cate Smith, our Head of Studio, as she celebrates 14 years at McKenna Townsend! Cate has led on countless successful campaigns, particularly within the marine sector, bringing her unmatched creativity, expertise, and dedication to everything she touches. Thank you for everything, Cate. Here’s to many more years of success!
Welcome back, Mel
We’re thrilled to welcome back Melissa Piercy Chart.PR to the team following her maternity leave! It’s fantastic to have her positive energy and expertise back in the office. We’ve missed you and it’s great to have you back!
Upcoming Boat Show Support
Boat show season is on the horizon and our team is here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s managing your social media presence, PR and media engagement, or providing onsite support throughout the event, we’ve got it covered. Let us help you make the most of your show presence with strategic, creative, and seamless support.