Grayling retains its hold on the Singapore business and adds Thailand, previously serviced by Thana Burin. Edelman, meanwhile, will continue to handle Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai -- and also scoops the Japan and Australia accounts from Arex and Porter Novelli, respectively.
According to BA Asia-Pacific PR manager Amanda Allan, the two agencies were selected following an e-auction to identify prices, and a consequent series of pitches. While Allan declined comment, it is believed that the review included the five incumbents, along with Ketchum Newscan. "Both agencies gave excellent pitches and this, combined with their network approach to Asia-Pacific, has secured them the contracts," said Allan. "They also have coverage in the rest of Asia and the Middle East, so will be considered for the review that is now underway in those areas."
