Sonnhalter, a communications firm marketing to the professional tradesman in the construction, industrial and MRO markets, received a gold award in the "B2B Campaigns" category at the 19th Annual Public Relations Society of America's (PRSA) Cleveland Rocks Awards competition recognizing excellent communications programs and tactics.

Sonnhalter received the gold award in "B2B Campaigns" for the launch of KNIPEX's TwinGrip Pliers, the industry's only slip joint pliers with a five-adjustment push-button. Sonnhalter worked with KNIPEX to develop a campaign to spread awareness about the unique pliers.

Sonnhalter worked strategically to communicate to KNIPEX's audience of tradesmen, tool enthusiasts and DIYers the innovative features and benefits of the TwinGrip pliers. Sonnhalter invited trade media to attend a virtual press event which resulted in product coverage highlighting the TwinGrip Pliers in industry trade publications. KNIPEX also received immediate coverage from key influencers that generated excitement surrounding the new product.

Other elements of the campaign included paid media to feature TwinGrip content in trade publications, e-newsletter placements, video placements, e-blasts and digital website display banners, as well as development of a brochure and teaser video.

"We are honored to see the work we do get recognized by some of our city's best and brightest public relations professionals," said Matt Sonnhalter, vision architect at Sonnhalter. "We are lucky to have a client who makes the best pliers on earth."

Annually, the PRSA-Cleveland Rocks Awards acknowledge Northeast Ohio's outstanding communications programs, which incorporate research, planning, execution and evaluation. PRSA Cleveland Rocks Award winners demonstrate leadership in public relations and contribute to advancing the profession locally.