Three agencies have been shortlisted in each of the seven markets where the review, launched last year (Media, 6 May 2008), is taking place. OMG’s PHD and Interpublic Group’s Initiative are reported to be involved in all the markets, while ZenithOptimedia and MEC are involved in some markets.
As the pitch is not centrally coordinated, different sets of agencies have been selected in each market after credential submissions. Countries covered under the review include Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore. Sources suggest that this procurement-led pitch has been conducted in stages, which is the reason for its delay.
Reports also suggest that presentations have already been made in two countries including Singapore and Taiwan and are likely to be made in Hong Kong and Thailand this week. Presentations in the other four countries are scheduled for this month.
The review is likely to be extended to more countries in Asia-Pacific in the next few months.
