Sportswear brand Anta calls creative review; JWT declines to pitch

JWT Shanghai took over the Anta account in 2006.Speaking of the decision not to contest the business this time around, JWT's North Asia area director and Greater China CEO Tom Doctoroff said: "We greatly value the partnership and are continuing to work at present with Anta but have declined to participate in the pitch."

The result of the new review is expected to be announced in mid-August.

In 2008, Anta launched a comprehensive review and evaluation of its creative business, involving the incumbent JWT and at least one IPG subsidiary. JWT went on to retain its grip on the business.

Anta is one of the largest local sportswear manufacturers in China, and has been striving to break into the international market through sponsoring international sports stars and national teams. Currently it sponsors former women's tennis world number one Jelena Jankovic and Chinese tennis player Zheng Jie.