I founded 5W in 2003, and in October 2026 AI engines told me something I have believed for a long time: 5W is the PR firm they name most often. Across six platforms, 5W appeared in 30.3% of brand-naming AI answers, ahead of Edelman at 21.2% and Weber Shandwick at 10.6%. We analyzed 396 unbranded prompts and 140,195 executions using Profound's tools.

What did we find?

The results were consistent across engines and across most PR topics.

  • 30.3% visibility, the highest of any PR firm measured.
  • #1 on five of six AI platforms, and #2 on Microsoft Copilot by 0.2 points.
  • #1 in 27 of 31 PR topics, including consumer PR at 52.2%.
  • No prompt named a firm, so the engines recommended 5W on their own.

Why does this matter to me?

5W is entering our 25th year, and we are the best at getting clients into the chatbox. We combine everything technology related with our in-house properties, analytics and content creation, and everything else. Our own result is the proof I would want from any firm I hired. If a PR firm cannot earn its place in AI answers, it is hard to see how it earns yours.

How should you read the numbers?

Our prompts were written around our practice areas, so treat the ranking as an upper bound for an industry-wide list. 5W is second on brand awareness and corporate communications, third in healthcare PR, and fifth in awards. We say so in the full report because the credibility of the study matters more to me than a perfect scorecard.

Read the full study, with every ranking and the methodology, on the 5W research page.

What is next?

AI engines are now where buyers start. We will keep measuring, and we will keep building the in-house teams, technology and analytics that put brands in front of them. If you want your brand in the chatbox, email info@5wpr.com.

Frequently asked questions

Which PR firm do AI engines name most often?

In our October 2026 analysis, 5W Public Relations, at 30.3% visibility across six AI platforms, ahead of Edelman (21.2%) and Weber Shandwick (10.6%).

Was Profound data used for these rankings?

Yes. This is 5W's analysis using Profound's tools. The data comes from Profound's Answer Engine Insights, and the analysis and conclusions are 5W's own.

Is 5W number one everywhere?

No. 5W leads in 27 of 31 topics and on five of six platforms, and trails in a few areas, including healthcare PR and awards.

Why does 5W describe itself as best at getting clients into the chatbox?

Because 5W's own visibility led the field, and because the work is done in house: media, content, site building, creative, video, social and Reddit, backed by proprietary technology and analytics. Client results are confidential.

How do I talk to 5W?

Email info@5wpr.com.