A press release is an official statement giving information on a particular matter directed at members of the news media. It can announce a range of news items, including scheduled events, personal promotions, awards, new products and services, sales accomplishments, etc. It can also be used to generate a feature story. Press releases allow companies and individuals to control their public image.

In an SEO point of view, press releases are a valuable way of gaining high quality links, visibility, brand name/product recognition, and referral traffic.