#wunderman

[fashionbooksmilano]

Jean Cocteau, A poet in time

The Séverin Wunderman Collection

Testi critici Marina Corgnati

Museo della Permanente, Milano 2002, 100 pagine, 22 x 28 cm

euro 30,00

email if you want to buy booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

Curatore della collezione : Tony Clark, Art Direction : Bob Noorda

Il Musée Jean Cocteau - Collection Séverin Wunderman è un museo di Menton, in Francia,  dedicato all'opera artistica di Jean Cocteau (1889-1963) poeta, pittore, disegnatore, drammaturgo e cineasta francese. Inaugurato nel 2011, la collezione del museo deriva principalmente dalla collezione di Séverin Wunderman, collezionista statunitense di origine belghe, che ha donato la propria collezione alla città di Menton nel 2005.

27/06/23

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[compellingselling]

Clever digital Out Of Home idea. Overdone case study video.

I love how much this client left for viewer to fill in. UK passersby will pause a sec and then realize, “Oh. Have a break. Have a Kit Kat.”

And it’s made that much more clever by the blinking cursor implying that whoever was typing out the billboard actually took a break.

If you want to see the actual billboard with the blinking cursor, go up to second 24 in this overdone case study video. 

Agency: Wunderman Thompson UK

[indiabizlive]

Manyavar has partnered with Mirium India & Wunderman Thompson Commerce for a digital partnership which is part of the WPP Group. The partnership is part of the brand’s plan to further solidify its end-to-end customer experience. The account for the famous Indian brand Manyavar was won by Mirum India and Wunderman Thompson Commerce after a multi-agency pitch.

[downthetubes]

Digital Comics Spotlight: War Medicine a new mini-series from Top Cow Talent Hunt-winning Hannibal Tabu

War Medicine is a three-issue mini-series from California-based independent publisher Wunderman Comics, written by Top Cow Talent Hunt-winning Hannibal Tabu, with art by Roy Allan Martinez

War Medicine is a three-issue mini-series from California-based independent publisher Wunderman Comics, written by Top Cow Talent Hunt-winning Hannibal Tabu, with art by Roy Allan Martinez. All three issues are available now, an intriguing tale of a formidable female bounty hunter with shamannic abilities, largely set in the Old West, whose quest is to mete out justice to those who have killed…

[apcseo]

Top 10 Advertising Agencies of Delhi NCR India in 2024

Explore the top 10 advertising agencies in Delhi NCR for 2024, where creativity and innovation converge.

In the lively world of Delhi NCR, where ideas flow and innovation thrives, advertising agencies play a big role in shaping how brands connect with people. Let's take a look at the top 10 advertising agencies in Delhi NCR that are making waves with their creative work and smart strategies.

Ogilvy India: Ogilvy India is like a big star in the advertising sky. Based in Gurgaon, they've been making amazing ads and clever plans for a long time. They're really good at making brands famous and using new ideas to reach people.  

Dentsu Webchutney: Dentsu Webchutney is all about the internet. They're experts at making cool stuff online, like ads that pop up on your phone or videos that make you want to click. They have offices in Delhi and Gurgaon and know how to use technology to make ads that get attention.  

Apppl Combine: Apppl Combine is a full-service marketing agency making waves in Delhi NCR. With a comprehensive suite of services, they're experts in branding, advertising, and digital marketing. They're known for their creativity and reliability, making them a top choice for businesses looking to make a mark in the market.  

JWT (J. Walter Thompson) Delhi: JWT Delhi is part of a big family of companies that know a lot about advertising. They're experts at telling stories that make you feel something. Whether it's a funny ad or a touching one, they know how to make ads that stick in your mind.  

Havas Worldwide India: Havas Worldwide India is all about connecting people with brands in a special way. They think advertising should be about more than just selling stuff – it should be about making a real connection. They use data and creativity to make ads that people actually like.  

McCann Worldgroup India: McCann Worldgroup India is famous for working closely with its clients to understand what they need. With offices in Delhi and Gurgaon, they offer a lot of different services like making ads, coming up with ideas, and using digital tools to reach people.  

Grey Group India: Grey Group India is part of a big network of companies that are really good at advertising. They're experts at coming up with new ideas and making ads that people remember. They help lots of brands look their best and stand out from the crowd.  

Publicis India: Publicis India is known for its smart ideas and forward-thinking approach. They use data and technology to make ads that get results. They work with big brands and small ones, helping them reach people in new and exciting ways.  

Wunderman Thompson India: Wunderman Thompson India is really good at using creativity and data to make ads that people love. They're experts at understanding what people want and making ads that speak to them. They help brands make a big impact in the world of advertising.  

Leo Burnett India: Leo Burnett India is known for its creative ideas and strategic thinking. They've been making ads for a long time and know how to make brands look good. They help brands tell their stories in a way that people remember.

In summary, these top 10 advertising agencies in Delhi NCR lead the industry with their creativity and innovation. From Ogilvy India's and Apppl Combine’s ground-breaking ideas to Leo Burnett India's strategic thinking, each agency brings something special to the table, helping brands connect with people in exciting ways.

This post was originally published on: Apppl Combine

[helloyoucreatives]

According to experts, in the last four years, 99 per cent of sea turtles have been born female. The sand's warmth influences their sex during the incubation phase: research shows that if a turtle's eggs incubate below 27.7°C the turtle hatchlings will be male. If the eggs incubate above 31°C the hatchlings will be female. This of course means that the hotter the sand, there’s more probability of female newborns – and so the concern for sea turtles’ eventual disappearance grows.  

Wunderman Thompson Colombia and Banana Boat, in partnership with The Colombian Sea Turtle Conservation Program (ProCTMM), have come up with an innovative and sustainable solution: Nest Domes. Inspired by the organic shape of turtle’s shells and made with natural materials, the Nest Domes are Domes that regulate sand temperature on the beaches, influencing the proper conditions in terms of shading and ventilation needed to hatch a better proportion of female and male newborns.  

Designed with the help of Marine Biologists, local artisans, designers, and engineers, the Nest Domes were created with Caribbean wood from Santa Marta (Col.), that make up part of the sea turtle’s ecosystem. Light wood which helps to reflect the sunrays, Internal layers are made of cork, a material that is 100% bio-degradable and importantly, a natural coolant, while the outer layer is covered with flaxseed oil to prevent humidity when it rains. The design has handcrafted windows especially created to guarantee the proper circulation of wind, pushing the hot air, out of the dome. 

Aminta Jauregui, Head Researcher of the Sea Turtle Conservation Project said: “During the evolution of the prototypes we were able to lower the temperature in the nests by 4ºC. Thanks to this project, we are able to re-create the pivotal temperature needed to achieve an even proportion of male and female sea turtles. It’s an outstanding feat of innovation, and we’re optimistic it will have a positive impact on the future sea turtle population who are now classified as endangered.” 

[vivelafranceblog]

Menton

Commune in France

France. It’s known for beaches and gardens such as the Serre de la Madone garden, showcasing rare plants. East, the hilly, medieval old town is home to Basilique Saint-Michel, with its 18th-century bell tower, and the ornate facade of La Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs. Nearby, the Musée Jean Cocteau collection Séverin Wunderman displays works by poet Jean Cocteau. 

Area: 14.05 km²

Department: Alpes-Maritimes

Elevation: 0–774 m (0–2,539 ft); (avg. 16 m or 52 ft)

Région: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Menton (Alpes-Maritimes) — Wikipédia

Menton, France (by Christian Sarbach)

[sonalidigitalmarketer]

Top 5 Advertising Agencies in India: Leading the Way in Creativity and Innovation

India, with its diverse culture, booming economy, and ever-evolving digital landscape, is home to some of the most innovative and successful advertising agencies in the world. These agencies have not only reshaped the advertising industry in India but have also taken their creative skills to international heights. In this blog, we will explore the top 5 advertising agencies in India that have set benchmarks in creativity, strategy, and execution.

1. Ogilvy India

Overview: Ogilvy is one of the most well-known advertising agency in India and globally. With its presence in over 80 countries, Ogilvy India has worked with several top brands in the country and has consistently delivered impactful and memorable advertising campaigns. The agency is known for its integrated approach to advertising, which includes creative services, brand strategy, media planning, and digital marketing.

Key Achievements:

Ogilvy India has won numerous awards at prestigious platforms such as Cannes Lions, Effies, and D&AD.

The agency’s work with brands like Vodafone, Asian Paints, and Guinness has been lauded for its creativity and effectiveness.

Why Ogilvy Stands Out: Ogilvy is known for its strong brand-building strategies, creative storytelling, and an unmatched ability to connect with audiences emotionally. The agency’s emphasis on integrating digital innovation with traditional advertising methods makes it a pioneer in modern advertising.

2. JWT India (J. Walter Thompson)

Overview: As one of the oldest advertising agencies in India, JWT (now rebranded as Wunderman Thompson) has a legacy of delivering high-impact campaigns for some of the biggest names in the business. From television commercials to digital marketing, JWT India’s work has stood the test of time, earning it a reputation for both innovation and effectiveness.

Key Achievements:

JWT India has a long list of iconic campaigns, including work for brands like Ford, Nestle, and Unilever.

The agency has been a consistent winner at global advertising festivals and award shows.

Why JWT Stands Out: JWT is known for its expertise in brand building, consumer insights, and exceptional creativity. It excels at blending creativity with data-driven insights, ensuring the advertising resonates with the right audience.

3. DDB Mudra Group

Overview: DDB Mudra Group is one of India’s largest advertising networks, offering a wide range of services such as creative advertising, digital marketing, media planning, and integrated communications. With offices across India, the agency has built a reputation for providing cutting-edge, highly creative campaigns that push the boundaries of conventional advertising.

Key Achievements:

DDB Mudra has worked with top clients like Volkswagen, McDonald's, and Pepsi.

It has garnered numerous awards at international festivals, including the Cannes Lions and The One Show.

Why DDB Mudra Stands Out: The agency is known for its innovative, out-of-the-box thinking that challenges traditional advertising norms. DDB Mudra’s ability to craft emotionally resonant campaigns while maintaining a strong focus on the client’s brand identity has made it a preferred agency for many global and local brands.

4. Lowe Lintas

Overview: Lowe Lintas is another powerhouse in India’s advertising landscape. With a history spanning over several decades, the agency has built a strong legacy of creative excellence. Lowe Lintas is known for its strategic approach to advertising, blending creativity with consumer insights to create campaigns that truly resonate with audiences.

Key Achievements:

Lowe Lintas has delivered iconic campaigns for brands like Idea Cellular, Unilever, and HDFC Bank.

The agency’s campaigns have earned accolades at both national and international award shows.

Why Lowe Lintas Stands Out: The agency’s success lies in its ability to blend creativity with business strategy. Lowe Lintas understands the importance of consumer behavior and works closely with clients to create campaigns that lead to tangible business results.

5. McCann India

Overview: McCann India is part of the global advertising network McCann Worldgroup, known for its impactful campaigns and creative expertise. The agency has a long-standing history of working with top brands in India, providing solutions across all areas of marketing, including creative development, media planning, and digital marketing.

Key Achievements:

McCann India has created some of the most memorable ad campaigns, including campaigns for Coca-Cola, Mastercard, and L’Oréal.

The agency has consistently received recognition at international awards like Cannes Lions and the Effie Awards.

Why McCann Stands Out: McCann India is known for its ability to combine creativity with data-driven insights to produce advertising that drives results. The agency’s deep understanding of consumer behavior, along with its creative flair, enables it to produce campaigns that have lasting impact.

Conclusion

These top 5 advertising agencies in India have set the standard for creativity, innovation, and strategic advertising. They have consistently delivered successful campaigns that not only build brand equity but also drive consumer behavior. Whether you are a small business looking for a creative push or a large corporation in need of a holistic marketing strategy, these agencies offer the expertise and experience needed to create truly impactful campaigns.

[digitalsonam]

 List of Advertising Agencies in India: Top 10 Picks for 2024 Best Advertising agency in Gurgaon

In a rapidly evolving market, the need for cutting-edge advertising solutions is more critical than ever. Choosing the right advertising agency becomes paramount as businesses strive to create meaningful connections with their audiences. India is home to a vibrant pool of creative agencies that offer services ranging from digital marketing to television commercials. In this article, we’ll highlight the top 10 advertising agencies in India for 2024, focusing on their services, including branding, creative design, and digital marketing.

If you’re searching for the Best Advertising agency in Gurgaon or the Top Advertising Agencies in India, this list will guide you to the perfect partner.

1. Twohmp Communication

Location: Gurgaon Specialties: Branding, Digital Marketing, TV ads, TVC, Video & Photography, Creative Design, Graphic Design

Twohmp Communication stands out as one of the Best Advertising agencies in Gurgaon. With a unique approach that combines creativity and strategy, Twohmp provides holistic advertising solutions for brands looking to establish a strong presence. Whether it’s digital campaigns or high-quality TV commercials, they cater to a wide array of advertising needs, making them a top contender in the industry. Their diverse portfolio across multiple sectors has helped them emerge as a top Advertising Agency near me for many brands.

2. Ogilvy India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru Specialties: Integrated Advertising, Brand Strategy, Social Media Campaigns

Known for its decades of experience and iconic campaigns, Ogilvy remains a leader in the advertising space. Their expertise spans across digital and traditional media, making them one of the top advertising agencies in India. Ogilvy has consistently delivered groundbreaking work for some of the biggest brands in the world.

3. Wunderman Thompson India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru Specialties: Brand Communication, Digital Transformation, Advertising Strategy

Wunderman Thompson combines creativity and data-driven insights to offer an all-inclusive advertising experience. Their global reach, combined with their local market expertise, has made them a powerhouse in India’s advertising industry.

4. McCann Worldgroup India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi Specialties: Integrated Marketing, Digital Advertising, Creative Strategy

McCann India is a trusted name in the advertising world, known for its creativity and strategic solutions. Their campaign for Coca-Cola’s “Thanda Matlab Coca-Cola” became a household slogan, showing their prowess in brand storytelling.

5. Leo Burnett India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru Specialties: Branding, Digital Marketing, Creative Advertising

Leo Burnett has been delivering world-class creative work for decades. They are renowned for blending traditional advertising with modern-day digital innovations to create memorable campaigns.

6. Dentsu India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai Specialties: Performance Marketing, Digital Campaigns, TVC Production

As a part of the global Dentsu network, Dentsu India provides cutting-edge advertising solutions with a focus on digital transformation. Their data-driven approach helps them create highly personalized campaigns for clients.

7. FCB Ulka

Location: Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi Specialties: Creative Strategy, Digital Advertising, Branding

FCB Ulka’s campaigns are known for their emotional connect and impact. Their ability to craft campaigns that resonate deeply with audiences sets them apart from other agencies in the market.

8. Grey India

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi Specialties: Integrated Advertising, Social Media Campaigns, Brand Development

Grey India takes a unique, human-centric approach to advertising. Their campaigns focus on understanding consumer behavior and creating messages that touch lives meaningfully.

9. Madison World

Location: Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru Specialties: Media Planning, Digital Marketing, Advertising

Madison World is known for its expertise in media buying and planning. Their strategic approach to advertising helps brands maximize their reach while staying budget-conscious.

10. Social Beat

Location: Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru Specialties: Digital Marketing, Video Advertising, Content Creation

Specializing in digital and performance marketing, Social Beat has rapidly grown into a leading agency. They offer creative solutions that leverage digital platforms to create high-impact campaigns for brands.

Why Choose Twohmp Communication?

Twohmp Communication isn’t just another name in the top advertising agencies in India list—it’s a brand that embodies creativity and passion. Whether you’re a startup looking to launch your first product or a seasoned business seeking to revamp your brand image, Twohmp provides a comprehensive set of advertising solutions that can take your brand to new heights.

As the Best Advertising agency in Gurgaon, Twohmp offers:

Innovative Branding Solutions: Tailored to capture your brand’s essence and connect with your audience.

Digital Marketing Expertise: Helping your business reach a wider audience through effective online strategies.

TV Ads & TVCs: High-quality production that communicates your brand’s message effectively.

Creative Design & Graphic Design: Unique designs that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

If you're searching for an Advertising Agency near me in Gurgaon, look no further than Twohmp Communication.

Conclusion

The advertising landscape in India is diverse, with agencies offering a wide range of services to cater to different brand needs. Whether you're looking for a creative powerhouse or a digitally-focused agency, this list of the top 10 advertising agencies in India for 2024 will help you find the right partner. Among them, Twohmp Communication shines as a leading player, offering comprehensive services to brands looking to make their mark in the industry.

[lboogie1906]

Captain Anatole Paul Broyard (July 16, 1920 – October 11, 1990) WWII interrupted his studies at Brooklyn College. He adopted a white identity when he entered the Army, rising to captain and was put in charge of an all-Black cargo loading battalion. He divorced his first wife, Aida Sanchez, a mixed-race Puerto Rican; took advantage of the G.I Bill to study at the New School for Social Research; and opened a bookstore in Greenwich Village. He began submitting writings to top-tier intellectual magazines. His article in Discovery titled “What the Cystoscope Said,” concerning his father’s losing battle with cancer, announced to the literary world that a formidable new talent had arrived.

Speculation about his racial identity was whispered about by both whites and Blacks. His closest white associates had heard rumors of his Black ancestry but never mentioned it to him. When his photo appeared in Time magazine, Black poet-novelist Arna Bontemps told his friend Langston Hughes: “His picture . . . makes him look Negroid. If so, he is the only spade among the Beat Generation.”

He was working odd jobs related to advertising and teaching classes part-time at the New School. He married Norwegian American dancer Alexandra Nelson (1962). He worked for the advertising agency Wunderman Ricotta & Kline. He penned several front-page reviews for the New York Times Book Review and became the publication’s daily reviewer. His perch as editor at the Times made him one of the nation’s leading arbiters of taste and a cultural gatekeeper.

Collections of his reviews, Aroused by Books and Men, Women, and Other Anticlimaxes, were published. He began writing a column in the Book Review.

He retired from work at the Times. His two autobiographical works published posthumously are Intoxicated by My Illness and Other Writings on Life and Death, and Kafka Was the Rage: A Greenwich Village Memoir. His darker-skinned sister attended his memorial service, white mourners were shocked to see she was Black. His wife shared the secret of his racial heritage with their children after his death. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[entrepalabrasmx]

Prognosis Latam 2023 por Wunderman Thompson: el evento regional pionero en Health concluye con gran participación 

Se llevó a cabo Prognosis Latam 2023, el primer evento enfocado en Health, culminando con gran aceptación e interés, abriendo nuevas posibilidades y reflexiones dentro de la industria.  

Organizado por el equipo de Wunderman Thompson Health Latam, se dieron cita destacados expertos y profesionales de la salud en un entorno virtual, brindando una plataforma única para el intercambio de conocimientos y la exploración de las últimas tendencias en el ámbito de la salud. 

Contamos con la presencia de profesionales de la industria en 12 países, incluyendo Argentina, Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Estados Unidos, Guatemala, México, Panamá, Perú, y Uruguay, Prognosis Latam 2023 confirmó su alcance a nivel regional.  

"Prognosis Latam 2023, en su primera edición demostró ser una plataforma inigualable para fomentar el intercambio de ideas y promover la colaboración en el campo de la salud. Estamos orgullosos de haber reunido a un gran número de profesionales destacados y haber brindado un espacio para discutir sobre tendencias, tecnología y desafíos del sector". afirmó Francisco Montoya, Director general Wunderman Thompson Health Latam & Type 1. 

Durante el evento, se abordaron diversos temas relevantes como: 

El uso de prácticas de innovación que transforman la manera de relacionamiento entre marcas y consumidores. 

El impacto de la inteligencia artificial (IA) en la investigación científica. 

La importancia de la omnicanalidad en la comunicación efectiva. 

La relevancia que tiene construir marcas Health con propósito y, 

La mejora de la toma de decisiones a través de la automatización. 

Según Ernest Riba, Chief Strategy Officer Latam, "Prognosis Latam 2023 ha resaltado la necesidad de generar ideas flexibles y creativas en el ámbito de la salud. Hemos explorado cómo la creatividad puede marcar la diferencia en la industria, desde educar y crear conciencia hasta contribuir al desarrollo científico para salvar vidas". 

Además, se presentaron innovaciones destacadas como Supeself, Joy-workouts, Hospitality y Revolutionary Rest, que muestran cómo la industria de la salud está evolucionando para satisfacer las necesidades cambiantes de las personas en términos de bienestar y cuidado personal. 

Patrick Wisnom, CEO de Wunderman Thompson Health Global estuvo a cargo de la última conferencia en la que habló sobre la evolución de la industria de Salud basada en la tecnología y los datos.  

“Estamos convencidos que Prognosis Latam 2023 se consolidó como un evento trascendental en la región, sentando las bases para futuras colaboraciones y avances en el campo de la salud”, concluyó, Francisco Montoya.  

[brazenmena]

Best Social Media Marketing Agency In Dubai

As of my last update in January 2022, pinpointing the single "best social media marketing agency in Dubai " can vary depending on specific needs, objectives, and preferences. However, several agencies have established themselves as leaders in the industry and are widely recognized for their expertise in social media marketing. Here are some notable ones:

Socialize: Socialize is a prominent social media marketing agency based in Dubai, known for its creative campaigns and strategic approach to social media management. They offer a range of services including content creation, community management, influencer marketing, and paid social advertising.

Red Blue Blur Ideas (RBBi): RBBi is a digital marketing agency with a strong focus on social media marketing and digital strategy. They provide tailored solutions for businesses looking to enhance their presence and engagement on social media platforms.

Weber Shandwick MENA: Weber Shandwick is a global communications and marketing agency with a regional office in Dubai. They offer comprehensive social media marketing services including social strategy, content creation, influencer engagement, and analytics.

OMD UAE: OMD is a leading media and marketing agency with a presence in Dubai. They provide integrated social media marketing solutions aimed at driving brand awareness, engagement, and conversions across various platforms.

Wunderman Thompson UAE: Wunderman Thompson is a global advertising agency with a branch in Dubai, offering social media marketing services as part of their integrated marketing solutions. They specialize in creating engaging content and driving results-driven campaigns for clients.

Hug Digital: Hug Digital is a full-service digital marketing agency headquartered in Dubai, with expertise in social media marketing, content creation, and influencer management. They focus on delivering measurable results and ROI for their clients.

PHD UAE: PHD is a global media and communications agency with a presence in Dubai, offering social media marketing services as part of their integrated media planning and buying solutions. They leverage data-driven insights and technology to optimize social media campaigns and drive business outcomes.

These agencies are among the top players in the social media marketing landscape in Dubai, each bringing its unique strengths and capabilities to the table. It's essential to research and evaluate agencies based on your specific requirements and objectives before making a decision.

[radiomaxmusic]

Thursday, March 7, 2024 2pm ET: Feature Artist: Taylor Dayne

Taylor Dayne (born Leslie Wunderman; March 7, 1962) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame in 1987 after her debut single “Tell It to My Heart”. Dayne achieved six additional U.S. top-10 singles, including “Love Will Lead You Back”, “Prove Your Love”, and “I’ll Always Love You”. Dayne has received two Grammy Award nominations, and has won an American Music Award, and…

[findjobseasy]

[ad_1] Job title: Marketing Coordinator Company: Wunderman Thompson Job description: and cooperation. We are looking for a Marketing Coordinator for Budget, Activity and Planning, who is organized, detail orientated... to access sports facilities 🎓 free language lessons and the professional system of internal education for your potential... Expected salary: Location: Praha Job date: Wed, 28 Feb 2024 07:10:12 GMT Apply for the job now! [ad_2]

[adventuresinclientservice]

The death of advertising?

Advertising Age was among the first things I read every Monday morning when I arrived at my agency.  It wasn’t (and still isn’t) a particularly good trade rag, and I’ve long have since abandoned the practice – too expensive ($135 a year!!), too inaccurate, too few reasons to pay attention – but I still receive daily email blasts from the magazine.

The other day I saw a headline, “Inside agencies’ struggle to train and retain junior-level employees,” and thought back to an earlier one I received, “Three historic agency names disappear in WPP agencies’ merger.”  Correlation doesn’t necessarily mean causation, but I can’t help but think of these two stories as linked.

Three storied agency names receive the death penalty …

I suspect the advertising agency holding company WPP has a host of reasons why merging J. Walter Thompson, Young &Rubicam, and Wunderman with VML makes sense -- synergies among shops, opportunities for growth, a more powerful new business story, a melding of management – but these days, in truth there is only one:  to cut cost, which, with a stroke of the pen, puts an end to nearly 300 years of combined agency history.

When agencies aren’t growing on the top line, holding companies like WPP are surgeons operating without anesthesia, figuring that excising agencies by jamming them together eliminates redundancies in finance, HR, and administration.  Instead of two high-priced Creative Directors, we’ll have one.  Two heads of Planning, or Production, or Account Management?  Same deal:  one stays, the other goes. 

This helps WPP make its numbers, bolstering its share price, but who suffers as a consequence?

Many casualties result …

Clients for starters.  Relationships of longstanding, institutional memory that took years to cultivate, a legacy trial-and-error mistakes that led to a successful scorecard of work, all sentenced to exile.  Some clients adjust, figuring swapping shops is too onerous and expensive to endure.  Other clients are far less forgiving; they react as expected, with agency reviews following shortly thereafter.  Clients that are really angry simply yank their accounts, assigning their business to other shops.

And then there are the individual losers to consider, those cost-too-much, largely older, tenured and battled-tested senior people who suddenly are no longer needed.  Some land on their feet.  Some retire early.  Some go into real estate.

But the biggest losers by far are the ones Advertising Age presumably discusses in “Inside agencies’ struggle to train and retain junior-level employees.” 

These newcomers don’t need more training, although training from outside experts like Jenny Plant (and me) certainly would help.  People new to the business are looking for I’ve-been-there-before people who, day-in day-out, serve as combination sounding boards (“Let’s talk through the problem and see if we can come up with a way to address it”), hands-on instructors (“Let me show you how you might do this”), and relationship counselors (“Here’s a better way to think about this issue”).

They look for help and can’t find it.  They knock on doors and are rebuffed with “I don’t have the time” rejections.  At some point they stop looking.  Then they look elsewhere.  The most promising of the lot leave their agencies.  Some go client-side.  Others leave advertising altogether.  The whole industry suffers as a result.

Leading to a predictable outcome

Let’s connect the dots:  holding companies merge agencies to cut costs and eliminate higher paid, more senior staff; the senior people who survive the cuts are stretched to the max, no longer having enough time to coach the junior people who need it most, many of whom suddenly find themselves in front of clients, in charge of things they are largely unprepared to handle.

Which explains a third Advertising Age article that appeared last week: “Why more agency reviews may be coming” that suggests “growing unrest across agency-client relationships.”  Is anyone surprised by this doom loop?

When I spoke recently at the International Advertising Association’s Annual Conference, I asserted in front of a thousand people that, 

“Account people are the least understood but most essential to an agency’s survival and growth, yet most agencies do little to help them be proficient at their jobs.”

If agencies are going to grow, I claimed they would need to foster a “learning culture” in their organizations, combining critically essential mentoring with both internal and external training.  As passionate and persuasive as I tried to be – if you saw me speak, you could hear urgency in my voice – I exited the stage wondering if anything I said actually made a difference.

The one thing I do know:  if we don’t train, mentor, and coach our young people to be more capable, confident, and skilled, there will come a day – maybe not tomorrow, but sooner than anyone thinks -- advertising agencies as we know them will be no more.

This might be the season of good cheer, hope, and optimism, but in truth this makes me very sad.

Speaking of the season, greetings to all of you; if you’re traveling to see family, friends, or simply to escape winter, travel safe!

[helloyoucreatives]

Every grand moment starts with an unexpected encounter, and in its newest campaign, Grand Marnier, the Cognac and bitter Orange liqueur, explores how the meeting of elements from different worlds can signal new beginnings, new perspectives, and new heights. 

It’s the meeting of cognac and bitter orange liqueur - the unexpected encounter of Grand Marnier’s key ingredients - that led to the creative of the new brand campaign.

Launched globally, the Grand Encounter campaign devised by creative agency Wunderman Thompson France, will reach consumers across digital, print and POS channels, to communicate the power of the unexpected. In the six mini-films of the brand campaign, Grand Marnier is shown alongside other grand encounters including the beautiful but uncharacteristic combination of a ballet dancer and street dancer, and the uplifting collaboration between a classical pianist and upbeat DJ. Each film, which has a music video feel, and a distinctive soundtrack celebrates the grand encounters unlocked by these unexpected meetings, a metaphor for the cognac and bitter orange liqueur pairing.