Merco Launches Corporate Reputation Rankings in the US

Spain-based corporate reputation rankings firm Merco is entering the US market, initially with a presence in Texas and Florida.

Since launching at the turn of the century, Merco has built a presence in twenty countries. Its approach aims to recognize the most reputable companies and business leaders in each market, by means of a multi-stakeholder evaluation, audited by KPMG. Participation in the ranking is free, which Merco says ensures the rankings' independence.

The firm says Texas and Florida are known for their 'economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit', with state GDP of $2.7 and $1.6 trillion, respectively. The US ranking uses a five-phase, multi-stakeholder methodology combining expert insight, public opinion, and '200 objective data points' - it begins with survey of business leaders to identify the top companies and leaders, then assesses the views of stakeholders including financial analysts, journalists and academics, alongside digital presence and public perception. The results promise local companies insights into how key stakeholders perceive them, recognizing high performance but also identifying opportunities to improve.

The US expansion will be led by entrepreneur and wealth management expert Vana Cristina Koutsomitis (pictured). Merco CEO José María San Segundo comments: 'For more than two decades, we have worked to establish a leading corporate reputation monitor. Now we are taking this major step to add value to one of the most dynamic and influential markets in the world. It is an exciting challenge - one we embrace with enthusiasm, commitment, and the firm intention to continue driving business excellence through our rigorous methodology.'

Web site: www.merco.info .