MAM
WPP acquires Canada’s john st.
MUMBAI: Global communications network WPP has acquired Canadian creative agency john st.
Founded in 2001 and based in Toronto, john st. employs approximately 100 people and has unaudited revenues for the year ended 31 December 2012 of approximately $14.0 million.
The acquisition of john st. strengthens WPP‘s presence in Canada. “We see enormous value in being part of WPP,” said john st. president Arthur Fleischmann. “We‘ll now be able to augment our current services in areas that clients are asking for, such as media, direct and public relations.”
john st.‘s clients include AstraZeneca, Kruger, ING Direct, Maple Leaf Foods and Tata. Over the last 12 years, john st. has built an international reputation as one of Canada‘s leading innovative creative agencies. It was recently named Silver Agency of the Year as well as Silver Digital Agency of the Year by Strategy, a leading Canadian marketing publication.
WPP is the leading communications services group in Canada. WPP remains committed to building and broadening its client offer in the mature economies of the world. Collectively (including associates), the Group has revenues of $450 million and employs more than 2,500 people in Canada. WPP companies represented in the market include JWT, Ogilvy, GroupM, Hill+Knowlton Strategies and Burson-Marsteller. In 2010, WPP‘s wholly-owned subsidiary Young & Rubicam Group acquired the Toronto-based TAXI creative network.
Brands
Tech2.com returns with AI-driven revamp to guide India’s tech consumers
News18 relaunches legacy tech platform with AI tools and expanded coverage
NEW DELHI: Tech2, one of India’s earliest and most recognisable technology news destinations, is staging a comeback with a fresh, AI-first approach aimed at modern digital consumers.
Originally launched in 2003, Tech2 built a strong following among India’s tech enthusiasts by simplifying complex innovations and guiding purchase decisions. Now, under the umbrella of Network18’s News18, the platform is being reimagined for an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping how users consume and interact with information.
The revamped Tech2 blends AI-powered tools with editorial expertise, aiming to deliver smarter, faster, and more personalised content. While the technology stack gets a significant upgrade, the platform is consciously holding on to its familiar brand identity, creating continuity for long-time users while attracting a new generation.
At its core, the new Tech2 is positioning itself as a decision-making companion for consumers navigating an increasingly complex tech landscape. From gadgets and apps to broader digital ecosystems, the platform plans to widen its editorial scope to reflect how deeply technology now influences everyday life.
A key part of its growth strategy includes expanding into multiple Indian languages, signalling an intent to reach audiences beyond metro cities and tap into the next wave of digital adoption.
The relaunch also strengthens News18’s portfolio of specialised digital properties, which already includes platforms such as CricketNext for cricket coverage, Showsha for entertainment, and Local18 for regional reporting.
With its return, Tech2 is not just revisiting its legacy but attempting to redefine it. In a market flooded with information, the platform’s success will hinge on whether it can turn AI into a genuine utility for users rather than just a buzzword.
