WPP has confirmed that digital agency DT is being taken over by global network AKQA, following a number of rumours in the market.
The local shop will become part of the globally renowned digital network, and will be rebranded under the global agency brand in the future. WPP bought AKQA in a surprise £350million aquisition that was signed at Cannes in 2012. It was seen at the time as one of the most significant aquisitions in ad land for a number of years.
The network was 21 agency's locally and more than 2000 staff. The move will give it offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Singapore and Auckland.
The deal is also the latest from WPP AUNZ to ratify its Australian business portfolio since it took over STW Group last year. Earlier this week Landor and Designworks merged with the global Landor name replacing the local Designworks brand.
Mike Connaghan, CEO WPP AUNZ says: “Combining the global muscle of an iconic brand such as AKQA with the local knowledge and power of DT really does represent an amazing opportunity to further solidify our leadership position in the region. DT is one of the fastest growing of our 80 companies and 2016 was a record year for them. This is an exciting next step”.
Brian Vella, CEO of DT will join the AKQA executive team. He says: “We wanted to take our business to a global level and looked for a partner with shared values, culture and vision. In AKQA we found that partner. For the last 20 years Ajaz and his team have been an inspiration to so many, redefining the industry. I can’t wait to connect and co-create new opportunities for our clients and team”.
AKQA Co-Founder and CEO Ajaz Ahmed: “Australia and New Zealand regularly are ranked among the most creative countries in the world. It’s always been a dream to launch in the Australasia region.”
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