Small Business Spotlight: Akhia

Gavin Zivoder

In an industry as oversaturated as public relations, finding a reliable firm to represent your business is like Batman trying to stop the Joker—it takes time. But when a firm conducts its own public relations as if the company depends on it (spoiler: it does), it gains an edge.

With a core belief in providing quality care since 1996, Akhia started by doing things differently, putting people and integrity first. Primarily working with manufacturing companies, Akhia has spent decades honing its ability to identify audience needs, address problems and respond effectively. Today, Akhia practices outstanding public relations marketing themselves while building strong relationships with clients.

Humanization of Business

Akhia avoids a purely transactional mindset, focusing instead on building relationships with the public through emotional engagement. "Ben Thinking," a weekly post on Akhia’s website, features CEO Ben Brugler sharing industry insights with humor and a casual tone. This authentic approach builds trust and presents leadership as approachable. Employees also contribute through blog posts and podcasts, reinforcing Akhia's commitment to internal culture and external reputation.

Corporate Social Responsibility

At Akhia, a paid day off might mean volunteering in the community. Staff participate in volunteer time off (VTO) twice a year, giving back to organizations of their choice. Akhia also provides financial support to communities in need, youth programs, diversity initiatives and vulnerable groups, ensuring social responsibility and ethical care.

“You’re seeing that we have transparency and our brand does have a human element to it,” said Akhia CEO Ben Brugler. “We’re essentially demonstrating the things we want to bring to our clients. These are the standards that they should be working to and should be expecting from us.”

Visit Akhia’s website, and every page tells a new story of authenticity, humanization, community efforts and personality—marketing themselves through public relations and looking darn good while doing it.