The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) hires Environics Communications to promote BIO International Convention

Washington, February 9, 2009 – The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) has hired Environics Communications to conduct public relations and media outreach for the association's 2009 BIO International Convention in Atlanta.

BIO is the world's largest biotechnology organization, providing advocacy, business development and communications services for more than 1,200 members worldwide. Members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology technologies.

The BIO International Convention is the world's largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, and typically attracts approximately 20,000 attendees and 400 reporters from around the globe. Environics will assist BIO staff with message and materials development; spokesperson preparation; crisis communications; media outreach; and on-site PR support.

"One of our association's key initiatives is to promote greater awareness about the benefits of the biotechnology and how the industry is making life better for the future," says BIO Vice President of Communications Jeff Joseph. "Environics Communications was selected because of the agency's strong health sciences knowledge and background, its relentless persistence in generating top-tier visibility for clients in traditional and new media, and its vast experience and understanding of how large trade associations operate."

"The BIO International Convention is the premiere global event for business leaders, scientists, executives, investors and the media who cover this dynamic, life-changing industry," says Environics U.S. General Manager Dave Groobert. "Environics is pleased to provide public relations support for such an important, exciting and newsworthy international meeting."

About BIO

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) represents more than 1,200 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology technologies. Corporate members range from entrepreneurial companies developing a first product to Fortune 100 multinationals. We also represent state and regional biotech associations, service providers to the industry and academic centers.