Maroon PR Marks 20 Years, Proving Relationships Still Rule in PR

COLUMBIA, MD – April 06, 2026 – As Maroon PR kicks off a year-long celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Columbia-based agency is not just looking back at two decades of success—it's doing so on the heels of its most profitable year to date. Founded in 2006 by veteran public relations professional John Maroon, the firm has navigated the tumultuous evolution of the media landscape by anchoring its strategy in a principle that predates digital disruption: the power of genuine relationships.

The 'Non-Agency Agency': Two Decades of Relationship-Driven Growth

In an industry often characterized by high turnover and fleeting campaigns, Maroon PR has cultivated a reputation for remarkable client loyalty. This is exemplified by its foundational client, Hall of Fame baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr., and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, a partnership that has endured for the agency's entire 20-year history. This long-standing trust is not an anomaly but a cornerstone of the firm's model, which has also fostered decade-long relationships with major clients like Walmart, the Maryland Food Bank, and Classic 5 Golf.

This dedication to partnership has earned the firm the moniker of "a non-agency agency," a label that reflects its boutique approach of providing dedicated, personal attention while leveraging deep industry experience. With a team that brings a combined 150+ years of experience to the table, clients receive the strategic weight of a larger firm with the focused support of a smaller one. It's a philosophy that appears to be paying dividends, building a roster of over twenty active clients across various sectors.

"I am so proud of reaching this milestone anniversary and grateful to our people, our clients and so many who helped us get here," said company founder and CEO John Maroon in a recent statement. His emphasis on gratitude towards people and partners underscores the firm's cultural foundation. This relationship-first approach has enabled the agency to not only retain clients but also to become deeply embedded in their success stories, guiding communications for major milestones like the recent appointment of a new President and CEO for the Maryland Food Bank.

Evolving with the Industry: From Sports Niche to Integrated Powerhouse

While relationships form its bedrock, relentless adaptation has been Maroon PR's engine for growth. The agency that opened its doors in 2006 with a primary focus on sports has methodically transformed into a diversified, full-service communications powerhouse. Recognizing the shifting tides of the market, the firm expanded its expertise into the non-profit, hospitality, and professional services sectors, structuring itself into four distinct arms: Maroon Plays (Sports), Maroon Gathers (Hospitality), Maroon Cares (Nonprofits), and Maroon Works (Professional Services).

This evolution was not just strategic but also technological. The firm was an early adopter of services that were, at the time, unconventional for a traditional PR agency. It made a significant investment in in-house video production by hiring its first full-time videographer in 2010, a move that positioned it well ahead of the content curve. This was followed by the integration of social media marketing, graphic design, and, more recently, podcast production into its core offerings.

Today, the agency's strategy fully embraces the modern integrated communications model, blending earned media (traditional press), owned media (client websites and social channels), and paid media (targeted advertising). The results of this approach are tangible. In 2023 alone, the agency's owned media efforts generated over 47 million impressions and 2.8 million engagements across more than 50 social media accounts. This digital prowess, combined with securing earned media placements in 43 states and major outlets like Good Morning America and the NFL Network, demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the contemporary media ecosystem.

A Maryland Mainstay in a Competitive Corridor

Operating from the bustling Baltimore-DC corridor, Maroon PR has established itself as a significant player in a highly competitive market. While larger firms like Crosby Marketing Communications often dominate regional rankings in terms of sheer size and revenue, Maroon has carved out a durable and respected niche. With an estimated annual revenue of around $7 million, the agency holds its own as a key contributor to the regional business landscape.

The firm's success lies in its ability to serve a diverse client base, from national organizations with a footprint in all fifty states to smaller companies focused on local and regional impact. This dual capability allows it to leverage its deep local knowledge for community-focused campaigns while applying its broad expertise to national-scale projects. This positioning as a Maryland mainstay with national reach has proven to be a formidable business model, allowing it to thrive amidst a sea of competitors in one of the nation's most dynamic business regions.

Looking Forward: The PR 'Renaissance' and 'Maroons Mark'

As it celebrates its past, Maroon PR remains firmly focused on the future. John Maroon describes the current state of the industry as a "renaissance," highlighting the opportunities presented by a constantly changing media landscape. "I am excited about the future," he stated. "We have done a tremendous job of staying ahead of the curve in terms of the significant evolution of our industry."

This forward-looking perspective is embodied in the agency's 20th-anniversary celebration. Rather than simply issuing a press release, the firm has launched a special season of its popular industry podcast, Spin is a Four Letter Word. Titled "Maroons Mark," the fourth season features the CEO in conversation with twenty special guests, reflecting on the lessons, stories, and relationships that have defined the firm's journey and the broader evolution of public relations. The series serves as both a celebration and a thought leadership platform, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders. By using a modern digital medium to reflect on two decades of history, Maroon PR is once again demonstrating the very adaptability that has been the key to its long-term success.