VanTrust Real Estate, one of the nation’s leading private developers based in Kansas City, Mo., hired Cooksey in 2019 to assist with the company’s expansion into the competitive Texas commercial real estate market. The company expanded into several sub-markets, including Austin, San Antonio, El Paso and Fort Worth, among others.
industry
- real estate
services
- communications assessments & planning
- marketing strategy & planning
- media relations
- public involvement & stakeholder engagement
- thought leadership positioning
the challenge
Build an Enduring Media and Brand Presence in New Markets
VanTrust works nationally as a full-service real estate development company with regional offices in Columbus, Dallas, Phoenix and Jacksonville. Cooksey quickly identified who could be VanTrust’s brand ambassadors in their preferred expansion areas within Texas.
the strategy
Leverage the VanTrust Story through Several Industry and Regional Growth Trends
Cooksey’s real estate practice group developed a strategy to launch the company in each of those sub-markets, leveraging media relationships and building upon the company’s stellar reputation within the industry. Beyond securing transactional media coverage of significant real estate projects, Cooksey secured digital and print advertising, coordinated membership and sponsorship efforts with regional civic and trade groups and drafted numerous successful industry award nominations.
the solution
Execute an Integrated Marketing Communications Plan
After a five-year effort, VanTrust executives have become highly sought-out thought leaders for regional publications and event panels, providing commentary and market expertise within the statewide commercial real estate landscape.