The Republik, Durham, has been named as the first advertising agency-of-record for 25-year-old supply chain specialist company, FHI (Freight Handlers, Inc.) FHI, based in Fuquay-Varina, Wake County, N.C., is among the top supply chain labor providers nationwide. The Republik will be responsible all advertising (primarily print and online), as well as brand standards, social media, website development, sales materials and public relations.

Agency selection, managed by director of business development Will Seel, comes after a four-month review (other participants are unnamed), and was based a presentation of credentials.

FHI's marketing efforts had previously been limited to trade shows and word-of-mouth. The decision to advertise follows a management transition, and an expanded range of services offered. FHI founder and current chairman, Chuck Wall, transitioned his CEO role to his son, Ryan Wall, who saw the need for FHI to be more marketing focused. FHI will now offer supply chain labor solutions for retailers, distribution centers and manufacturing companies both within and outside its traditional vertical market, the grocery business. fhiworks.com

The Republik is a Durham-based, employee-owned advertising/branding agency. Other clients include Hanwha L&C?Surfaces, PrivatizeMe, Fayetteville Area CVB, 21C Museum Hotel, Boy Scouts of America Oconeechee Council, First Flight Venture Center, Lexis Nexis and The Franklin. www.therepublik.net