MAM
Starcom MediaVest Group leads on RECMA’s list
MUMBAI: Paris-based research agency RECMA (Research Company Evaluating the Media Agency Industry) has named Starcom MediaVest Group (SMG) the number one ranked global media network in its 2013 Global Billings Rankings Report for the fourth consecutive year. This report evaluates the overall activity—including buying billings and specialised services—of all global media agencies across 62 countries.
In 2013, SMG increased its billings by 18.3 per cent, with an industry share of 12.5 per cent. RECMA also named the network number one in the ‘Top 14 Countries’ ranking, which is a key chart in the overall report that accounts for 81 per cent, of the media agency industry. In addition, SMG retained its position in the overall regional evaluations, including its top rank in north America and was named the number two agency in Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa and Latin America.
“Leading RECMA’s Global Rankings report is both an honor and a validation of our work at SMG. Everything we do, in partnership with the greatest brands in the world, is with an eye toward innovation. And RECMA’s report confirms that our ‘MakeNextNow’ approach is successful in both engaging consumers and helping steer our industry toward ‘what’s next,” said SMG Global CEO Laura Desmond.
SMG had its most celebrated year on record in 2013, with 525 product award recognitions. Award highlights included 15 agency and network of the year awards, 24 Cannes Lions, 35 Festival of Media awards (across all galas) and two Effie Grand Prix. Through July 2014, SMG has already been awarded media network of the year at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, along with being named the most effective agency and most effective agency network by the Effie Index at the North American Effie Awards Gala in New York, where Publicis Group also took top honors as Most Effective Holding Company.
MAM
BKT appoints Infectious Advertising as creative & digital partner
Tyre maker shifts focus to On-Highway segment with new brand narrative in India.
MUMBAI: BKT just rolled out a fresh creative tyre-kick because when your brand wants to hit the highway, you need an agency that can steer the story straight. Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT), the Mumbai-based multinational tyre manufacturer renowned globally for its Off-Highway Tyres (OHT) in agriculture, mining, construction and infrastructure, has appointed Infectious Advertising as its integrated creative and digital agency for India.
The mandate covers both mainline and digital for BKT’s tyre business in the country, including its established OHT portfolio and the newly launched On-Highway tyre range. Infectious will craft a contemporary brand narrative that translates BKT’s global legacy of performance, quality and reliability into emotional resonance with Indian consumers.
Infectious Advertising co-founder & CEO Nisha Singhania said, “It’s a huge honour to be chosen as a partner as BKT moves into the On-Highway tyre space. This is a pivotal moment for the brand, and we’re thrilled to be chosen as a brand custodian at this inflection point.”
BKT chief marketing officer for India Mahesh Koppad added, “Following a rigorous multi-agency pitch process, we chose a partner that truly understands our ambition to transform BKT from a performance-led brand into a powerful purpose-led consumer brand. As we launch the new brand purpose ‘Elevate Your Drive’, our focus is on building deeper connections with consumers.”
Infectious Advertising co-founder & creative chairman Ramanuj Shastry noted, “We look forward to creating exciting work that helps the brand earn a place in the hearts of Indian consumers. We will use our integrated mainline and digital mandate to build a brand that is rooted in performance yet powered by culture.”
The appointment comes as BKT accelerates its push into the On-Highway segment in India, aiming to blend its international pedigree with local relevance. For a brand built on tough terrain, teaming up with Infectious feels like fitting the perfect tyre for the long Indian highway ahead gripping every turn with style and substance.
