AD Agencies
Human bags branding and communications mandate for Co2Exist
Mumbai: Recently launched integrated agency, Human, by creative duo Chirag Raheja and Imran Khan, who are walking their independent path after a long stint in the advertising world, bags its first branding and communication mandate for Co2Exist.
Co2Exist is an Indian startup that helps companies and individuals realize their climate commitments. Their goal is to help people across the world achieve a carbon-neutral status while generating revenue for their green efforts.
Commenting on the partnership, Co2Exist director Menaka Pohani said “Human, founded by Chirag and Imran, was a logical choice for Co2Exist’s communications partner.
Their approach, work ethic and professionalism stood apart and is what helped us make our decision to partner with them for our communications plan. Their innovative strategies and expertise in creating impactful marketing campaigns align seamlessly with our commitment to promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions.
Our decision to appoint Human was driven by our mutual vision to raise awareness and take effective action in combating climate change. By engaging with Human, we aim to amplify our message, reach a wider audience, and inspire behavioural change on a global scale. We believe that this collaboration will enhance our efforts in building a more sustainable future.”
The agency’s mandate includes working on the brand’s identity and digital communication strategy, and implementing clutter-breaking ideas that effect change.
Pohani continued, “On the identity front, Human has already designed a logo for the brand – one that reflects the key aspects of sustainability – restoring our green cover and water bodies, and switching to sustainable power sources to reduce the burden of consumption on the planet.”
Commenting on the logo, Human co-founder and director Imran Khan said “Sustainability is a very broad idea, and capturing the intent of the brand is always crucial. I’m glad we found a genuine depiction of the brand’s purpose, and hope to extend it in many different ways going forward.”
Commenting on the partnership, Human co-founder and director Chirag Raheja said “Co2Exist is an idea whose time has come. Their business resonates deeply with our ethos of creating work that’s good for the people, and the planet at large. So when we were offered a chance to be their communications partner, we leaped at it. We feel honored to be their partner of choice, and intend to fully repay the trust placed in us through work that drives meaningful results.”
Khan added, “Our goal is and will always be to work with purpose-driven brands. Co2Exist’s purpose is as big as it gets – they’re literally out there trying to save the world from the clutches of climate change. We couldn’t have asked for a better first client. I’m excited about the win, and look forward to creating work that drives positive change. “
AD Agencies
Publicis posts €4.19bn Q1 revenue, 6.4 per cent growth; backs FY outlook
Ad giant signals Q2 acceleration as AI and new deals power momentum
PARIS: Publicis Groupe continues to outperform the industry, delivering a strong start to 2026 under Chairman and CEO Arthur Sadoun. Despite a volatile global macro environment, the company has now outpaced the industry for nearly 20 consecutive quarters.
For Q1 2026, total revenue reached €4,191 million, up from €4,161 million last year, with organic growth of 6.4 per cent. Net revenue, which excludes pass-through costs, stood at €3,460 million, reflecting organic growth of 4.5 per cent.
Exchange rates had a negative impact of €268 million, mainly due to a weaker US dollar and pound sterling. Acquisitions, including Adge.AI and 160over90, contributed an additional €46 million.
Performance across regions was largely positive, with some variation:
- North America, accounting for 59 per cent of net revenue, grew 4.7 per cent
- Europe recorded growth of 3.9 per cent, led by the UK at 6.2 per cent, while France grew 1.6 per cent
- Asia Pacific posted 5.9 per cent growth, driven by China at 11.7 per cent
- Latin America grew 13.3 per cent
- Middle East and Africa declined 5.1 per cent due to geopolitical challenges
AI-powered marketing services, which now make up 86 per cent of the business, grew 5.6 per cent. However, the technology segment, representing 14 per cent of revenue, declined slightly as clients reduced spending on large-scale transformation projects.
Sharing his outlook, Publicis Groupe chairman and CEO Arthur Sadoun said, “Publicis had a very strong start to the year, outperforming the industry for almost 20 quarters in a row despite the volatile macro environment. Organic revenue growth reached 6.4%, leading to 4.5% in net and further increasing the gap with our peers.” He added that the company remains confident of delivering industry-leading performance. “We are confirming our industry-leading organic growth guidance of 4 to 5%, with the 4% rock solid, and a sequential organic growth acceleration in Q2 despite a higher comparable.”
Publicis continued its expansion with the acquisition of Adge.AI in March, followed by 160over90 in April to strengthen its sports and culture marketing capabilities.
Net financial debt stood at €1,156 million at the end of March, reflecting a seasonal shift from the net cash position at the end of 2025. Average net debt over the past twelve months was €1,035 million.
The company has reaffirmed its full-year guidance, expecting net revenue organic growth of 4 to 5 per cent in 2026. It also anticipates an operating margin slightly above 18.2 per cent and free cash flow of approximately €2.1 billion.
With expectations of stronger performance in the second quarter, Publicis remains well positioned to sustain its growth momentum.
