SLOUGH, UK-- McAfee has confirmed that eight-year incumbent Red Consultancy is not taking part in the ongoing review of the computer security company’s UK and Ireland PR business.

The company began the review during the summer, said McAfee PR manager Michelle Spencer, and is expected to shortlist up to three agencies by the end of today.

The pitch covers all of McAfee’s PR activity, including channel, B2B, enterprise and consumer. Spencer indicated a “strong emphasis on social and digital media,” along with understanding of “the different markets we are in, and the different types of influencers and media.”

The McAfee review comes as key rival Symantec concludes the pitch for its six-figure UK corporate and enterprise business. The Holmes Report understands that Red is strongly-placed to secure this business, which is currently handled by Speed Communications.

Red Consultancy MD Andrew Baiden declined to comment.

Earlier this year, McAfee was acquired by Intel in a deal that valued the security player at $7.68bn. McAfee is considered one of the two market leaders in terms of security software, alongside Symantec.

UPDATE (14 Sept): Symantec PR manager Katherine James has confirmed that her company has hired Red. "After a considered review process, Symantec has appointed The Red Consultancy as its enterprise and corporate agency of record for the UK and Ireland, based on their insights, understanding of Symantec’s challenges and creative recommendations," James told the Holmes Report via email.