JWT forges new relationship with Asatsu-DK

J.Walter Thompson Japan and Asatsu-DK have formed a new alliance aiming to build business from major Japanese advertisers both in Japan and overseas.

“ Within Japan we will jointly be able to make a highly customized offering to major Japanese advertisers. This could include creating new agencies, divisions, joint ventures, or independent business units specifically to meet their needs,” said Ambar Brahmachary, President/CEO J.Walter Thompson Japan Ltd. “The goal is to jointly win incremental business that might not necessarily come to either of us alone,” Brahmachary added.

The new relationship will extend throughout Asia, Europe, and North America.

“ Within Asia, we are currently working out how we can work more closely together country by country. If it makes sense, and there are no client conflicts, we could merge or co-locate offices. The solutions could be different in each country,” explained Brahmachary.

In Europe, the two agencies are initially exploring how to work more closely in Germany, France, and the Netherlands. In the USA, where Asatsu-DK’s offices are already co-located within JWT in New York, similar studies are under way.

“ Essentially, we have transformed the existing partnership between WPP and Asatsu-DK into a direct relationship between JWT and Asatsu-DK. This enables us both to develop new initiatives not only in Japan but globally,” said Brahmachary. .

 

by David Kilburn

Published in MEDIA, February 13th 2004