Online B2B marketplace Alibaba.com has appointed the Leeds-based office of Ptarmigan Bell Pottinger to manage an integrated national and regional PR launch.

Following a three-way-pitch, Ptarmigan Bell Pottinger will handle a campaign which will kick off in August and will blend traditional PR with elements of digital and social media, above-the-line and DM as it looks to build brand awareness of Alibaba.com.

Maggie Choo, managing director of EMA, Alibaba.com, said: “We see significant opportunity in the UK market because of the vibrant community of small and medium businesses with such a strong potential for growth.  Ptarmigan’s expertise across traditional and social media combined with, International and regional experience will help us engage that community to drive economic growth in the region.”