Paul Hu to VolkswagenChina’s premium auto sector is as exciting as ever, so it’s not surprising that there is still a fair bit of movement between brands. One of China’s best known automive marketers, Paul Hu seized the opportunity to rejoin Volkswagen from Land Rover when it came up. He is now MD of Volkswagen Import in the market." />
TOP 5 COMEBACKS | 1 | Paul Hu to Volkswagen
China’s premium auto sector is as exciting as ever, so it’s not surprising that there is still a fair bit of movement between brands. One of China’s best known automive marketers, Paul Hu seized the opportunity to rejoin Volkswagen from Land Rover when it came up. He is now MD of Volkswagen Import in the market.
Sheena Jeng to PublicisSheena Jeng spent just 10 months at DDB Taiwan before reclaiming her position as China chair and chief creative officer. She had moved to Taiwan (her home country) earlier to become DDB’s co-president and chief creative officer for DDB. Prior to that, she spent four years at Publicis China and 12 years in total with the Publicis Groupe." />
TOP 5 COMEBACKS | 2 | Sheena Jeng to Publicis
Sheena Jeng spent just 10 months at DDB Taiwan before reclaiming her position as China chair and chief creative officer. She had moved to Taiwan (her home country) earlier to become DDB’s co-president and chief creative officer for DDB. Prior to that, she spent four years at Publicis China and 12 years in total with the Publicis Groupe.
Tony Poon to McCannMcCann Worldgroup named Tony Poon, former global head of CRM analytics at AS Watson Group, to the newly-created position of Asia-Pacific regional director of performance. During his first stint at the network, Poon was the APAC head of analytical services for MRM." />
TOP 5 COMEBACKS | 3 | Tony Poon to McCann
McCann Worldgroup named Tony Poon, former global head of CRM analytics at AS Watson Group, to the newly-created position of Asia-Pacific regional director of performance. During his first stint at the network, Poon was the APAC head of analytical services for MRM.
Ho Kay TatIn a surprise move, the MD and CEO of Malaysia’s leading English daily news title The Star made a return to domestic rival The Edge in November as CEO and publisher. During the 15 years he spent at The Edge previously, Ho had helped turn the magazine into Malaysia’s leading business title." />
TOP 5 COMEBACKS | 4 | Ho Kay Tat
In a surprise move, the MD and CEO of Malaysia’s leading English daily news title The Star made a return to domestic rival The Edge in November as CEO and publisher. During the 15 years he spent at The Edge previously, Ho had helped turn the magazine into Malaysia’s leading business title.
BatesIt might be a bit early to call it a full comeback, but there are hopes that Bates is on the road to recovery now that former head of O&M Advertising David Mayo has stepped in as CEO. He has promised to make the tenor of the agency “hungrier”. Already, Bates has joined forces with CHI & Partners." />
TOP 5 COMEBACKS | 5 | Bates
It might be a bit early to call it a full comeback, but there are hopes that Bates is on the road to recovery now that former head of O&M Advertising David Mayo has stepped in as CEO. He has promised to make the tenor of the agency “hungrier”. Already, Bates has joined forces with CHI & Partners.
Nick WorthingtonThe New Zealander has carved himself a spot at the top of Campaign’s Creative Rankings and shows no sign of moving. Having been commended for the likes of Yellow Pages’ ‘Yellow Tree House’ in his recent years at Colenso BBDO, his highlights in 2012 include ‘Donation Glasses’ for Mars Petcare (a Cannes and Spikes Gold winner) and ‘Twigs’ for Monteith’s, which also won a Gold Lion. " />
TOP 5 CREATIVES | 1 | Nick Worthington
The New Zealander has carved himself a spot at the top of Campaign’s Creative Rankings and shows no sign of moving. Having been commended for the likes of Yellow Pages’ ‘Yellow Tree House’ in his recent years at Colenso BBDO, his highlights in 2012 include ‘Donation Glasses’ for Mars Petcare (a Cannes and Spikes Gold winner) and ‘Twigs’ for Monteith’s, which also won a Gold Lion.
Graham FinkStill a relative newcomer to China, Ogilvy’s Fink seems to have found his feet. He is credited with helping bring home China’s first Cannes Grand Prix for ‘CokeHands’, created by 20-year old Hong Kong student and Fink protégé Jonathan Mak Long." />
TOP 5 CREATIVES | 2 | Graham Fink
Still a relative newcomer to China, Ogilvy’s Fink seems to have found his feet. He is credited with helping bring home China’s first Cannes Grand Prix for ‘CokeHands’, created by 20-year old Hong Kong student and Fink protégé Jonathan Mak Long.
Masashi Kawamura/PartySince launching Party last year, Masashi Kawamura and co-founders Morihiro Harano, Naoki Ito, Qanta Shimizu and Hiroki Nakamura have shown the potential for small independent agencies in Japan. Having won a host of accolades since its formation, the outfit was named Independent Agency of the Year at Spikes, where it won a Grand Prix in the mobile category for the innovative ‘Make TV’ campaign for Sony." />
TOP 5 CREATIVES | 3 | Masashi Kawamura/Party
Since launching Party last year, Masashi Kawamura and co-founders Morihiro Harano, Naoki Ito, Qanta Shimizu and Hiroki Nakamura have shown the potential for small independent agencies in Japan. Having won a host of accolades since its formation, the outfit was named Independent Agency of the Year at Spikes, where it won a Grand Prix in the mobile category for the innovative ‘Make TV’ campaign for Sony.
Thomas KimSince the ‘Virtual Subway Store’ for Tesco Homeplus, Thomas Kim has managed to sustain the momentum for Cheil and more broadly, for South Korea. This year his ‘Sunny Sale’ work for Emart took home Gold awards at both Cannes and Spikes." />
TOP 5 CREATIVES | 4 | Thomas Kim
Since the ‘Virtual Subway Store’ for Tesco Homeplus, Thomas Kim has managed to sustain the momentum for Cheil and more broadly, for South Korea. This year his ‘Sunny Sale’ work for Emart took home Gold awards at both Cannes and Spikes.
Elvis Chau/Yang YeoExpectations were high after last year’s ‘Heaven and Hell’ fever. The pair delivered with two Gold Lions and a Gold Spike for ‘Civilization’ for Maxam." />
TOP 5 CREATIVES | 5 | Elvis Chau/Yang Yeo
Expectations were high after last year’s ‘Heaven and Hell’ fever. The pair delivered with two Gold Lions and a Gold Spike for ‘Civilization’ for Maxam.
Media Innovation GroupWPP’s digital media investment consultancy Media Innovation Group (MIG) launched in Asia, promising to work to bring digital media buying and data insights closer to creative agencies. Based in Singapore, MIG is headed by Innocean’s former business director James Welch, who will be responsible for building partnerships with creative agencies and their clients across Asia-Pacific." />
TOP 5 MEDIA LAUNCHES | 1 | Media Innovation Group
WPP’s digital media investment consultancy Media Innovation Group (MIG) launched in Asia, promising to work to bring digital media buying and data insights closer to creative agencies. Based in Singapore, MIG is headed by Innocean’s former business director James Welch, who will be responsible for building partnerships with creative agencies and their clients across Asia-Pacific.
XaxisGroupM’s audience buying arm Xaxis, launched its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore, led by managing director Michel de Rijk. Xaxis also plans to roll out across nine new markets, including, India, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Hong Kong. Its operations in Australia, launched last May, will fall under the umbrella of the new headquarters." />
TOP 5 MEDIA LAUNCHES | 2 | Xaxis
GroupM’s audience buying arm Xaxis, launched its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore, led by managing director Michel de Rijk. Xaxis also plans to roll out across nine new markets, including, India, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Hong Kong. Its operations in Australia, launched last May, will fall under the umbrella of the new headquarters.
Quartz in APAC as part of the third leg of its global rollout. The free digital publication targets global business professionals who are young and digitally savvy, and groups articles into topics or ‘obsessions’ that run in a bar under the masthead, rather similar to a stock ticker. " />
TOP 5 MEDIA LAUNCHES | 3 | The Atlantic modernises
Late in the year, Atlantic Media launched its tablet-led global business publication Quartz in APAC as part of the third leg of its global rollout. The free digital publication targets global business professionals who are young and digitally savvy, and groups articles into topics or ‘obsessions’ that run in a bar under the masthead, rather similar to a stock ticker.
added China as first new country-specific section since 1942, when it created a section devoted to the US for the first time. The section will cover all aspects of China’s rising political, social and economic power in order to provide readers with a better understanding of the vast country." />
TOP 5 MEDIA LAUNCHES | 4 | China as seen by The Economist
The Economist added China as first new country-specific section since 1942, when it created a section devoted to the US for the first time. The section will cover all aspects of China’s rising political, social and economic power in order to provide readers with a better understanding of the vast country.
dedicated Indonesian news site and Bahasa mobile newsreader this summer, delivering news and analysis of business and finance, in addition to a selection of translated articles from WSJ’s global editions. The company also launched its Korean-language site in October, bringing the total up to 11 sites in eight languages." />
TOP 5 MEDIA LAUNCHES | 5 | WSJ’s local language sites
The Wall Street Journal continued to internationalise. It launched a dedicated Indonesian news site and Bahasa mobile newsreader this summer, delivering news and analysis of business and finance, in addition to a selection of translated articles from WSJ’s global editions. The company also launched its Korean-language site in October, bringing the total up to 11 sites in eight languages.
Wang Xiangwei, a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Congress. The dispute arose from Wang’s decision to reduce a story on the suspicious death of Tiananmen dissident Li Wangyang in a Hunan hospital to a brief. “I made the decision and I stand by it. If you don’t like it, you know what to do,” was the reply to the sub-editor’s query." />
TOP 5 MEDIA CONTROVERSIES | 1 | SCMP coverage questioned
Fears for editorial independence at the South China Morning Post rose after an e-mail exchange was published between a sub-editor and Wang Xiangwei, a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Congress. The dispute arose from Wang’s decision to reduce a story on the suspicious death of Tiananmen dissident Li Wangyang in a Hunan hospital to a brief. “I made the decision and I stand by it. If you don’t like it, you know what to do,” was the reply to the sub-editor’s query.
Facebook’s promoted postsFacebook has always been open about its tweaking of news feed posts, but the introduction of its ‘promoted posts’ option gave way to large-scale accusations of reducing the reach of unpaid posts in order to enhance its revenues. Facebook countered that as long as a post attracts high levels of attention, it will stand on the same footing as paid posts. The message is clear: to be visible, either pay or be more interesting." />
TOP 5 MEDIA CONTROVERSIES | 2 | Facebook’s promoted posts
Facebook has always been open about its tweaking of news feed posts, but the introduction of its ‘promoted posts’ option gave way to large-scale accusations of reducing the reach of unpaid posts in order to enhance its revenues. Facebook countered that as long as a post attracts high levels of attention, it will stand on the same footing as paid posts. The message is clear: to be visible, either pay or be more interesting.
ATV used its own airtime to promote its cause. One solution might be to simply produce things people want to watch." />
TOP 5 MEDIA CONTROVERSIES | 5 | ATV’s survival struggle
In the ongoing saga that is the Hong Kong TV industry, ATV energetically contested the government’s decision to grant a licence to another free-to-air channel. The argument that more competition would be unfair was part one; the bigger controversy came when ATV used its own airtime to promote its cause. One solution might be to simply produce things people want to watch.
Carlton Draught Beer ChaseThis 90-second TVC by Clemenger BBDO Melbourne features all the hallmarks of a 1980s Hollywood car chase — cops and robbers, anthemic soundtrack, roadblocks — only without the car and with beer, because drinking and driving is against the law. " />
TOP 5 CAMPAIGNS | 1 | Carlton Draught Beer Chase
This 90-second TVC by Clemenger BBDO Melbourne features all the hallmarks of a 1980s Hollywood car chase — cops and robbers, anthemic soundtrack, roadblocks — only without the car and with beer, because drinking and driving is against the law.
Thai Health Promotion FoundationIn this campaign by Ogilvy Thailand, children confront smoking adults and ask them for a light. The adults lecture the kids on the dangers of smoking. The children hand them a leaflet with a hotline number, saying: “You worry about me, but why not about yourself.” Almost every adult instantly threw his or her cigarette away. No one threw away the brochure. " />
TOP 5 CAMPAIGNS | 2 | Thai Health Promotion Foundation
In this campaign by Ogilvy Thailand, children confront smoking adults and ask them for a light. The adults lecture the kids on the dangers of smoking. The children hand them a leaflet with a hotline number, saying: “You worry about me, but why not about yourself.” Almost every adult instantly threw his or her cigarette away. No one threw away the brochure.
Sony DSLR campaignIn order to highlight the fact that most DSLR camera users are pretty clueless about their equipment, Sony and its agencies, led by Havas Sydney, set out to present an alternate option, the NEX camera. A video montage showed hapless DSLR users such as ‘macro freaks’, ‘flashers’, ‘foreign correspondents’, ‘lens spotters’, ‘F-stop fusspots’, ‘vidiots’ and ‘status updaters’." />
TOP 5 CAMPAIGNS | 3 | Sony DSLR campaign
In order to highlight the fact that most DSLR camera users are pretty clueless about their equipment, Sony and its agencies, led by Havas Sydney, set out to present an alternate option, the NEX camera. A video montage showed hapless DSLR users such as ‘macro freaks’, ‘flashers’, ‘foreign correspondents’, ‘lens spotters’, ‘F-stop fusspots’, ‘vidiots’ and ‘status updaters’.
Mentos National NightIn an apparent homage to Flight of the Conchords’ ‘It’s Business Time’, Mentos encouraged Singaporeans to give a patriotic boost to the city-state’s population with a rap song to celebrate National Day. The campaign, developed by BBH Asia-Pacific, included lyrics such as “I’ll tap you all night like an EZ Link Card” and “Let’s not watch fireworks, let’s make ‘em instead”. " />
TOP 5 CAMPAIGNS | 4 | Mentos National Night
In an apparent homage to Flight of the Conchords’ ‘It’s Business Time’, Mentos encouraged Singaporeans to give a patriotic boost to the city-state’s population with a rap song to celebrate National Day. The campaign, developed by BBH Asia-Pacific, included lyrics such as “I’ll tap you all night like an EZ Link Card” and “Let’s not watch fireworks, let’s make ‘em instead”.
Flame-emitting duckA newscast about flaming flatulence among farmyard fowls was watched more than 500,000 times online and on multiple news programmes and websites. The film reappeared a month later, promoting Sun Snack’s new ‘Hypercharged spicy duck flavour’ snack. " />
TOP 5 CAMPAIGNS | 5 | Flame-emitting duck
A newscast about flaming flatulence among farmyard fowls was watched more than 500,000 times online and on multiple news programmes and websites. The film reappeared a month later, promoting Sun Snack’s new ‘Hypercharged spicy duck flavour’ snack.
Gettin’ SeriousNot since Blackbeard has there been more terror on the high seas than in this music video ad for McDonald’s. Johnny Ruffo, an auto-tuned former X Factor Australia contestant, likes a lamb burger so much that he ruins what should have been a pleasant cruise in Sydney harbour by singing about it. Abandon ship." />
TOP 5 TURKEYS | 1 | Gettin’ Serious
Not since Blackbeard has there been more terror on the high seas than in this music video ad for McDonald’s. Johnny Ruffo, an auto-tuned former X Factor Australia contestant, likes a lamb burger so much that he ruins what should have been a pleasant cruise in Sydney harbour by singing about it. Abandon ship.
Do the dappan“Do the dappan dappan dappan dappan,” Petronas’s Deepavali ad insists. “We shake our heads, we shake our hips,” it continues. Most viewers end up doing the former." />
TOP 5 TURKEYS | 2 | Do the dappan
“Do the dappan dappan dappan dappan,” Petronas’s Deepavali ad insists. “We shake our heads, we shake our hips,” it continues. Most viewers end up doing the former.
Meat & Livestock AustraliaGordon Ramsay meets Zoolander in the ultimate kitchen nightmare. The idea behind the campaign is to “leverage spring fashion to promote lamb as a fresh and stylish meat option”. The result is an overcooked stew with strange ingredients. " />
TOP 5 TURKEYS | 3 | Meat & Livestock Australia
Gordon Ramsay meets Zoolander in the ultimate kitchen nightmare. The idea behind the campaign is to “leverage spring fashion to promote lamb as a fresh and stylish meat option”. The result is an overcooked stew with strange ingredients.
Fake FilipinoThe ad riffs on the idea that working mothers in Hong Kong have to employ domestic helpers, who get close to their charges and are often from the Philippines. The mom wins back the affection of her son with a carton of Kowloon Dairy milk. Quite sad, really." />
TOP 5 TURKEYS | 4 | Fake Filipino
The ad riffs on the idea that working mothers in Hong Kong have to employ domestic helpers, who get close to their charges and are often from the Philippines. The mom wins back the affection of her son with a carton of Kowloon Dairy milk. Quite sad, really.
Let’s GAP togetherHow? The campaign features a series of not-so-famous people, one Chinese one American, standing or sitting next to each other, but doesn’t explain how you ‘gap’. Turning nouns into verbs should be a crime, whether you are American or Chinese." />
TOP 5 TURKEYS | 5 | Let’s GAP together
How? The campaign features a series of not-so-famous people, one Chinese one American, standing or sitting next to each other, but doesn’t explain how you ‘gap’. Turning nouns into verbs should be a crime, whether you are American or Chinese.
Nick Brien’s departure from McCann Worldgroup were full of speculation—not about if he would leave, but about when. He was brought in as CEO of Interpublic’s largest agency network less than three years ago in the hopes of turning it around. Rumours were put to rest in November when the company brought in Harris Diamond as Brien’s replacement. " />
TOP 5 BREAKUPS | 1 | Nick Brien and McCann
The months leading up to Nick Brien’s departure from McCann Worldgroup were full of speculation—not about if he would leave, but about when. He was brought in as CEO of Interpublic’s largest agency network less than three years ago in the hopes of turning it around. Rumours were put to rest in November when the company brought in Harris Diamond as Brien’s replacement.
called it a day after spending 15 years in the agency. He’ll be moving on to some personal creative work, but will continue to consult and advise the agency on key clients from time to time. " />
TOP 5 BREAKUPS | 2 | Steve Elrick and BBH
In September, Steve Elrick, the regional executive creative director of BBH Asia, called it a day after spending 15 years in the agency. He’ll be moving on to some personal creative work, but will continue to consult and advise the agency on key clients from time to time.
Pickard emailed his business network to say that he would be pursuing another opportunity. The 15-year PR veteran has held senior positions across a host of agencies, including Edelman and Hill & Knowlton. " />
TOP 5 BREAKUPS | 3 | Bob Pickard and B-M
Pickard’s departure after just under three years at the helm of Burson-Marsteller came as a surprise. In October, Pickard emailed his business network to say that he would be pursuing another opportunity. The 15-year PR veteran has held senior positions across a host of agencies, including Edelman and Hill & Knowlton.
Dheeraj Sinha stepped down as regional planning director in May. The move was unexpected for many as Sinha was touted to take over as CEO of the WPP-owned agency’s India operations. Earlier in the year, the company’s India chairman and regional creative director, Sonal Dabral, and CEO Sandeep Pathak also stepped down. " />
TOP 5 BREAKUPS | 4 | Dheeraj Sinha and Bates
Barely a year after taking on a regional role at Bates, Dheeraj Sinha stepped down as regional planning director in May. The move was unexpected for many as Sinha was touted to take over as CEO of the WPP-owned agency’s India operations. Earlier in the year, the company’s India chairman and regional creative director, Sonal Dabral, and CEO Sandeep Pathak also stepped down.
Lai was forced to sell his NextMedia business to Chinatrust Charity Foundation. While his print titles were market leaders, Lai’s TV business proved to be his Achilles heel following disputes with local operators." />
TOP 5 BREAKUPS | 5 | Jimmy Lai/Taiwan Media Industry
Jimmy Lai ended his swansong interview in Next Media by writing the word sorrowful. Indeed, after dominating the Taiwan media industry for 12 years, Lai was forced to sell his NextMedia business to Chinatrust Charity Foundation. While his print titles were market leaders, Lai’s TV business proved to be his Achilles heel following disputes with local operators.
Samsung poached Damien Cummings from rival Dell in August. The new regional marketing director for digital and social media has one agenda: to transform Samsung into a digital powerhouse. At Dell, Cummings, held the role of online director. He also comes with significant agency experience having worked at Neo@Ogilvy and Ogilvy One." />
TOP 5 HIRES | 1 | Damien Cummings
Samsung poached Damien Cummings from rival Dell in August. The new regional marketing director for digital and social media has one agenda: to transform Samsung into a digital powerhouse. At Dell, Cummings, held the role of online director. He also comes with significant agency experience having worked at Neo@Ogilvy and Ogilvy One.
became Dentsu’s first non-Japanese leader in Asia in October. As chairman and CEO for Dentsu’s Southeast Asia and Oceana business, he has plenty of room for achievement. A possible sign that Dentsu really is starting to become more ‘international’. Time will tell." />
TOP 5 HIRES | 2 | Dick Van Motman
Dick Van Motman (right) seemed a solid fixture at DDB in China. That all changed suddenly when he became Dentsu’s first non-Japanese leader in Asia in October. As chairman and CEO for Dentsu’s Southeast Asia and Oceana business, he has plenty of room for achievement. A possible sign that Dentsu really is starting to become more ‘international’. Time will tell.
roped in Michael Birkin, the chairman of its branding agency Red Peak as its chief marketing officer. Birkin will keep his role at Red Peak. He has been tasked with transforming the company from a manufacturing one to a marketing one. " />
TOP 5 HIRES | 3 | Michael Birkin
In an unusual agreement, PC maker Acer has roped in Michael Birkin, the chairman of its branding agency Red Peak as its chief marketing officer. Birkin will keep his role at Red Peak. He has been tasked with transforming the company from a manufacturing one to a marketing one.
Kel Hook jumped ship to PHD China as head of strategy and communication planning. Hook also comes with entrepreneurial experience, having run his own planning consultancy firm, Stratosphere. The top brass at PHD believe Hook will play a key role in brand strategy. " />
TOP 5 HIRES | 4 | Kel Hook
After spending five years at Wieden+Kennedy China, Kel Hook jumped ship to PHD China as head of strategy and communication planning. Hook also comes with entrepreneurial experience, having run his own planning consultancy firm, Stratosphere. The top brass at PHD believe Hook will play a key role in brand strategy.
iProspect’s MD for search and performance in Asia-Pacific joined with a strong resumé, having headed GroupM’s search and marketing operations for six years. At iProspect, Lising will lead the Search Centre of Excellence for GM’s international operations. iProspect’s CEO Ruth Stubbs believes she “hit the jackpot” with Lising’s appointment." />
TOP 5 HIRES | 5 | Rosemary Lising
Rosemary Lising, iProspect’s MD for search and performance in Asia-Pacific joined with a strong resumé, having headed GroupM’s search and marketing operations for six years. At iProspect, Lising will lead the Search Centre of Excellence for GM’s international operations. iProspect’s CEO Ruth Stubbs believes she “hit the jackpot” with Lising’s appointment.
10,000-strong protest rally. At issue was the decision to prevent locals from photographing its store façade, while permitting foreign and mainland Chinese tourists to take pictures. Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PR DISASTERS | 1 | D&G’s camera angle
In January, Dolce & Gabbana in Hong Kong issued an apology over its ban on Hongkongers taking photographs at its Canton Road store, following thousands of comments on Facebook and 10 days after a 10,000-strong protest rally. At issue was the decision to prevent locals from photographing its store façade, while permitting foreign and mainland Chinese tourists to take pictures.
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apologised for its ‘inappropriate’ Facebook message that urged fans to rush home during a tsunami scare and order a takeaway. “Let’s hurry home and follow the earthquake news. And don’t forget to order your favourite KFC menu,” it reportedly said shortly after an 8.9 magnitude earthquake off Indonesia.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PR DISASTERS | 2 | KFC’s earthquake disaster
KFC Thailand apologised for its ‘inappropriate’ Facebook message that urged fans to rush home during a tsunami scare and order a takeaway. “Let’s hurry home and follow the earthquake news. And don’t forget to order your favourite KFC menu,” it reportedly said shortly after an 8.9 magnitude earthquake off Indonesia.
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had an online meltdown after its Facebook page was overwhelmed with complaints about the newly opened mall’s slippery floors and broken elevators. One thread descended into a slanging match with a Facebook user who complained about the slow rate of improvement. “Paradigm Mall does not know magic. Cannot snap fingers and make changes. You can? Then we want to hire you!!” it began.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PR DISASTERS | 3 | Off his trolley
A social media manager at Paradigm Mall in Malaysia had an online meltdown after its Facebook page was overwhelmed with complaints about the newly opened mall’s slippery floors and broken elevators. One thread descended into a slanging match with a Facebook user who complained about the slow rate of improvement. “Paradigm Mall does not know magic. Cannot snap fingers and make changes. You can? Then we want to hire you!!” it began.
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telling a magazine that Chinese tourists would not be welcome at an exclusive new Paris hotel planned by the company. After coming under an avalanche of outraged comments on social media, particularly in China, the article was amended, referring instead to “busloads of tourists”.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PR DISASTERS | 4 | Exclusive or abusive?
The boss of French clothing firm Zadig & Voltaire apologised for telling a magazine that Chinese tourists would not be welcome at an exclusive new Paris hotel planned by the company. After coming under an avalanche of outraged comments on social media, particularly in China, the article was amended, referring instead to “busloads of tourists”.
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chose the wrong viral video to parody when it ran ‘Furious man about to hit elderly lady. Help him control his fire’. The fast food chain pulled the plug after a spate of negative comments about the video, which re-enacted the actions of Alex Ong, who was caught on camera pushing an elderly woman out of a bus.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PR DISASTERS | 5 | Pushing the limits
Burger King chose the wrong viral video to parody when it ran ‘Furious man about to hit elderly lady. Help him control his fire’. The fast food chain pulled the plug after a spate of negative comments about the video, which re-enacted the actions of Alex Ong, who was caught on camera pushing an elderly woman out of a bus.
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raised questions over media rebates and the commoditisation of media services.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PITCHES | 1 | Unilever
The year’s biggest media pitch, Unilever’s global review began in January and dragged on into the autumn, only to end in a resounding non-event, as Unilever and its VP of media Rahul Welde retained incumbent agencies across the region (PHD in greater China, Mindshare almost everywhere else). Besides blood pressures, the lengthy process raised questions over media rebates and the commoditisation of media services.
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HSBC in October called a global creative review that is expected to conclude early next year. The US$600 million prize has Grey and BBDO lining up against incumbent JWT, which, according to some, has failed to put its stamp on the brand; the strapline, for example, originated with Lowe, which held the creative account before JWT took it in 2004. Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PITCHES | 2 | HSBC
No longer wishing to be ‘The world’s local bank’, HSBC in October called a global creative review that is expected to conclude early next year. The US$600 million prize has Grey and BBDO lining up against incumbent JWT, which, according to some, has failed to put its stamp on the brand; the strapline, for example, originated with Lowe, which held the creative account before JWT took it in 2004.
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prevailing over Dentsu, IPG, and Publicis in the battle for Huawei’s US$100 million global branding account. The Chinese maker of mobile devices and telecoms equipment saw its name dragged through the headlines in October when a US congressional panel branded the company a “security threat”.Comment on this article --> " />
TOP 5 PITCHES | 3 | Huawei
WPP and Omnicom Group may have their work cut out for them after prevailing over Dentsu, IPG, and Publicis in the battle for Huawei’s US$100 million global branding account. The Chinese maker of mobile devices and telecoms equipment saw its name dragged through the headlines in October when a US congressional panel branded the company a “security threat”.
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issued a comprehensive creative and media RFP in June, looking to strengthen its position internationally. As of press time, the airline had reportedly short-listed five agencies, but provided no timetable for final presentations. The incumbent, Dentsu, has worked with Garuda for about six years.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PITCHES | 4 | Garuda Indonesia
Having rebranded itself through Landor in 2009, Garuda Indonesia issued a comprehensive creative and media RFP in June, looking to strengthen its position internationally. As of press time, the airline had reportedly short-listed five agencies, but provided no timetable for final presentations. The incumbent, Dentsu, has worked with Garuda for about six years.
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The business went to OMG.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 PITCHES | 5 | HTC
Apparently taking to heart the branding of its flagship phone, the ‘One’, HTC announced a review in August to consolidate its US$150 million media account. Omnicom Media Group, MediaCom and ZenithOptimedia are said to have been invited to pitch for the business, which is currently held by ZenithOptimedia in China and Europe, Deutsch Los Angeles in North America and PHD in North Asia. [Update: The business went to OMG.
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pay US$4.9 billion for Aegis Group. The companies initially expected to consummate the deal by the end of year, but it had not yet been finalised by press time, with a slow approvals process in China reportedly to blame.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 DEALS | 1 | Dentsu and Aegis
In July, just months after terminating a long-term relationship with Publicis, Dentsu announced plans to pay US$4.9 billion for Aegis Group. The companies initially expected to consummate the deal by the end of year, but it had not yet been finalised by press time, with a slow approvals process in China reportedly to blame.
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Publicis Groupe acquired the Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH) network from founders Nigel Bogle and Sir John Hegarty and their partners. The agency, famous for its black sheep icon and “when the world zigs — zag” mentality, asserted that it would retain its independent streak, and we’ve seen nothing to indicate otherwise.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 DEALS | 2 | BBH and Publicis
Also in July, Publicis Groupe acquired the Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH) network from founders Nigel Bogle and Sir John Hegarty and their partners. The agency, famous for its black sheep icon and “when the world zigs — zag” mentality, asserted that it would retain its independent streak, and we’ve seen nothing to indicate otherwise.
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Myanmar, Today Advertising, in May, just days after sanctions against the Southeast Asian nation were eased. Coca-Cola and Pepsi were among the major brands following suit to establish a presence in the country of about 60 million people.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 DEALS | 3 | Ogilvy and Today
Ogilvy bought a stake in a leading local agency in Myanmar, Today Advertising, in May, just days after sanctions against the Southeast Asian nation were eased. Coca-Cola and Pepsi were among the major brands following suit to establish a presence in the country of about 60 million people.
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YouTube video pictured here), then merged the social-media-dashboard company with Radian6, acquired in 2011, to form Salesforce Marketing Cloud. The new offering aims to unify social listening, content, engagement, advertising, workflow, automation and measurement on one platform.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 DEALS | 4 | Buddy Media and Salesforce
Salesforce paid a reported $689 million for Buddy Media in August (prompting founder Michael Lazerow to create the memorable YouTube video pictured here), then merged the social-media-dashboard company with Radian6, acquired in 2011, to form Salesforce Marketing Cloud. The new offering aims to unify social listening, content, engagement, advertising, workflow, automation and measurement on one platform.
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Chelsea Football Club signed an agreement that will see Myanmar’s Grand Royal Whiskey co-branded with the team’s logo and heralded as the club’s official whisky. The club is set to visit Myanmar during its 2013 pre-season tour.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 DEALS | 5 | Grand Royal Whisky and Chelsea FC
Soft drinks companies aren’t the only brands eyeing the market in Myanmar—in October, Chelsea Football Club signed an agreement that will see Myanmar’s Grand Royal Whiskey co-branded with the team’s logo and heralded as the club’s official whisky. The club is set to visit Myanmar during its 2013 pre-season tour.
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TOP 5 CEOs | 1 | Paul Heath
As head of one of the most successful agency networks in the region, Paul Heath is something of an unsung hero. This year saw the CEO of Ogilvy & Mather Asia-Pacific step up to regional chairman following the retirement of Tim Isaac. Heath later took steps to reform Bates, handing the reins to David Mayo. Having made Ogilvy the first major network to establish a presence in Myanmar, Heath deserves credit both for his vision and calculated risk-taking.
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Sakhuja is notable for having made the leap from a national to a global role. Upon appointing him global CEO for Maxus based in India in August, GroupM president Dominic Proctor said simply that Sakhuja was “the best guy for the job”. The senior management change was the first since Proctor became president.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 CEOs | 2 | Vikram Sakuja
Still relatively new in the role, Sakhuja is notable for having made the leap from a national to a global role. Upon appointing him global CEO for Maxus based in India in August, GroupM president Dominic Proctor said simply that Sakhuja was “the best guy for the job”. The senior management change was the first since Proctor became president.
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due to take over as CEO of JWT Asia-Pacific at the end of the year. With responsibility for Northeast and Southeast Asia, as well as Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand, Doctoroff seems every bit the man for the job.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 CEOs | 3 | Tom Doctoroff
After 20 years at JWT, self-styled China expert Tom Doctoroff’s commitment has at last been given full recognition. The North Asia area director and Greater China CEO is due to take over as CEO of JWT Asia-Pacific at the end of the year. With responsibility for Northeast and Southeast Asia, as well as Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand, Doctoroff seems every bit the man for the job.
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BBDO named Network of the Year at Spikes Asia. Looking ahead, the network’s chairman and CEO for Asia, Middle East and Africa will be aiming to bring similar levels of success to Pakistan, having opened there in March.Comment on this article -->" />
TOP 5 CEOs | 4 | Chris Thomas
Always an advocate of the value of creativity, and creatively awarded work, in business, Thomas’ efforts were again rewarded this year with BBDO named Network of the Year at Spikes Asia. Looking ahead, the network’s chairman and CEO for Asia, Middle East and Africa will be aiming to bring similar levels of success to Pakistan, having opened there in March.
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TOP 5 CEOs | 5 | Jean Lin
As Isobar’s regional CEO and chief strategy officer, Lin continues to forge ahead towards her goal of putting the network ahead of the pack in terms of technological understanding and innovation. The agency continues to get stronger and much is expected next year.
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