A press release can explain what a business has done, but a well-chosen quote helps readers understand why it matters. If you are learning how to write a press release quote, start with the point of view it should add—not with a polished sentence that could have come from any company. A useful quote sounds like a real person, gives a little context and supports the news without repeating the headline.
Decide what the quote needs to do
Before drafting, identify the main fact in the announcement and what a reader might still want to know. Is the business responding to a local need, solving a customer problem, reaching a milestone or changing how it operates? The quote can explain the reasoning, describe the effect or set out what happens next.
For example, if a small firm is opening a second shop, the release can give the address and opening date. A quote from its owner might explain that customers have been travelling from the area and the new location will make service more convenient. That adds a human reason behind the announcement instead of restating the date and location.
It helps to plan the release as a whole before writing its quotes. This press release writing guide covers the headline, opening, supporting facts, quotes and contact details, along with a sample and reusable template. That structure makes it easier to see where a quote can contribute something new.
Keep the wording specific and natural
A quote should sound as though the named speaker might actually say it aloud. Avoid inflated language such as “thrilled to announce a revolutionary solution” unless those words are genuinely appropriate. Plain, precise wording usually carries more weight, especially for a small business whose readers value practical information.
Specific details make a quote more credible. Rather than saying, “We care deeply about our customers,” a business owner could describe what prompted a change: “We heard from customers who needed evening appointments, so we have added two late opening days each week.” The second version gives readers something concrete to understand and assess.
Quotes should not carry facts that belong in the release itself. Put dates, prices, locations, eligibility rules and performance figures in the main text, where they can be stated clearly and checked. Use the quote for perspective or explanation. If you include a statistic in someone’s words, confirm that the figure is accurate and provide enough context for it not to mislead.
Build a quote that is easy to use
A practical quote often needs only two or three sentences:
- Lead with the point: Say what matters about the news, not simply that the speaker is pleased.
- Add useful context: Explain the customer need, decision or experience behind it.
- Look ahead: Where relevant, say what customers, staff or the community can expect next.
For instance: “We kept hearing from local tradespeople who needed to collect supplies before their first job of the day. Opening at 6:30 gives them a more practical option, and we will review the hours after the first three months.” This example makes a clear point, offers a reason and describes a next step without making a grand claim.
When considering how to write a press release quote for a technical or financial announcement, translate specialist terms into language a general reader can follow. A finance director can explain what a new payment option changes for customers; there is rarely a need to fill the quote with internal terminology. Do not promise savings, results or benefits unless there is evidence to support the claim.
Get approval and check attribution
Do not invent a quote and attach an executive’s name to it. Drafting from an interview or approved notes is sensible, but the speaker should review the final wording and confirm that it reflects what they mean. Check their full name, job title and any company details in the attribution. If several people are quoted, make sure each one contributes a distinct perspective rather than repeating the same message.
Read the quote aloud before sending the release. If a sentence is hard to say, too long or full of promotional phrases, revise it. Keep the speaker’s voice professional but not artificially formal. A short, clear statement is more likely to be understood and, if a journalist needs it, used accurately.
Make the announcement easy to follow online
Press releases often send readers to a business website for more information. Check that the relevant page works on mobile, explains the offer or announcement clearly and gives visitors a sensible next step. If the release supports a website redesign or a new service launch, plan the site changes alongside the announcement. A website redesign rollback plan checklist can help teams consider testing, launch tasks and what to do if a change causes problems. Osdire is one place businesses can find freelance help across areas such as writing, design and programming when they need extra project capacity.
Finally, record where the release was sent and monitor meaningful outcomes: relevant media coverage, visits to the announcement page, enquiries or other actions tied to the original goal. A quote is not successful just because it sounds impressive. It should make the news clearer, give the speaker a credible voice and help readers decide what the announcement means to them.
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