NEW ORLEANS – Zehnder Communications, a full-service advertising and public relations firm, has been named the agency of record for the South Walton Tourist Development Council, which promotes tourism for 16 beach communities in Walton County, Florida.

The Tourist Development Council’s (TDC) “Visit South Walton” brand covers 26 miles of coastline. With its pristine, sugar-white beaches and turquoise waters, the area includes some of Florida’s most popular destinations. Zehnder will handle media buying and planning, social media, creative, interactive and digital communications services.

Fifteen competing ad agencies responded to the South Walton TDC’s initial request for proposals. Once the bids were reviewed and scored, four finalists were chosen and invited to make presentations. Zehnder was named the winning agency.

“Zehnder had the hospitality and tourism experience we were looking for, and they clearly understood our market,” says Dawn Moliterno, the South Walton TDC executive director. “We have a solid marketing foundation in place, so we’re excited about where we’ll go with Zehnder’s expertise and talent, especially with digital and mobile technology.”

Zehnder Communications is a fully integrated advertising agency providing a wide range of services, including strategic marketing, public relations, media placement, creative services, social media, interactive design and programming. With offices in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, La., and Nashville, Tenn., the agency has been serving the greater Southeast region for 16 years.