Initial reports suggested that the agency had pulled out because it objected to the length of the seven agency-strong short-list. But Clemenger BBDO Sydney's managing director Jim Moser said this was untrue.
He said: "We have made a business decision not to participate so we can concentrate on other priorities and new business opportunities. We wish TA much luck and success in finding the right partner for the future."
He said: "We have made a business decision not to participate so we can concentrate on other priorities and new business opportunities. We wish TA much luck and success in finding the right partner for the future."
Fellow contenders M&C Saatchi, the incumbent, Publicis Mojo and Saatchi & Saatchi, Singleton Ogilvy & Mather and Whybin TBWA remain in the running for the three-year tender.
One source close to the review suggested that the size of the short-list was "absolutely ridiculous". But another commented: "With a tourism account there are many stakeholders, so a large field is to be expected."
Incumbent Carat and MPG are the only two agencies shortlisted to handle TA's media planning and buying.