What type of public relations activity is represented by hosting a gathering for local media to announce a merger?

Hosting a gathering for local media to announce a merger is best characterized as a news conference. This type of public relations activity is designed specifically to provide journalists and media representatives with key information about significant events or changes within a company, such as a merger. The goal is to facilitate direct communication between the organization and the media, allowing for questions, promoting clarity, and generating news coverage surrounding the announcement.

Unlike a public service announcement, which focuses on providing information for public interest, or a press release, which is a written statement distributed to the media, a news conference allows for real-time interaction and engagement. A social media event generally refers to online engagement and may not cater specifically to press or traditional media coverage, which further distinguishes the effectiveness of a news conference in this context. By creating a dedicated event for the media, the organization ensures that their messaging regarding the merger is delivered accurately and prominently.