David Jones heading for M&C Saatchi

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Screen shot 2010-07-22 at 10.10.34 PM.pngCB Exclusive – Campaign Brief can reveal that the David Jones account is heading to M&C Saatchi, Sydney, after a two way shootout with 13 year incumbent, Saatchi & Saatchi, Sydney. An official announcement is expected later today although the move was confirmed to CB by a top exec from each agency overnight.

The review started back in February, with a long list that included BMF and DDB.

It will be a massive blow to Team Saatchi, Saatchi’s specialist division dedicated to the DJs business, and major redundancies are expected.

CONFIRMATION: THE OFFICIAL RELEASE: M&C Saatchi has been appointed by David Jones to handle its advertising account following a competitive pitch.

 

M&C Saatchi worldwide chairman Tom Dery was “thrilled” with the prospect of working with the prestigious Australian retailer: “David Jones is an iconic brand, synonymous with both style and substance and the agency is extremely excited to have this opportunity to propel this great brand forward,” Mr Dery said.

The appointment adds to M&C Saatchi’s impressive roster of bluechip clients that includes Qantas, Optus, Westfield, ANZ, Woolworthsand Freedom Furniture.

 

David Jones Group general manager of financial services and marketingDamian Eales said “M&C Saatchi was chosen as the successfultenderer on the basis of:

Its demonstrated ability to deliver large and complex advertising programs for similar clients;

The strength of their leadership team and creative capability; and

The cost efficiency they can bring to our business through the scale and sophistication of their operation,”

The agency brings an enormous degree of experience, creative and strategic smarts to the table.”

 

M&C Saatchi beat Incumbent Saatchi & Saatchi to the business.

 

Saatchi & Saatchi had held the David Jones creative account for 14years and the decision to end that relationship was not taken lightly,Mr Eales said.

 

“This decision is not due to any dissatisfaction with the pre-existingrelationship or quality of work, it was just an opportunity for a freshdirection with a proven performer.”

 

M&C Saatchi regional creative director Asia Pacific Tom McFarlanewas excited with the creative challenge of “taking an already iconicbrand and finding ways of making it even more iconic”.

 

“Our mantra has always been to take a brand approach to the myriad ofcreative opportunities we have with our retail clients,” Mr McFarlanesaid.

 

“Producing compelling, innovative and integrated creative solutionsthat stand the test of time for our retail clients is part of our DNA.”