FutureBrand and Landor hit Asian expansion trail

HONG KONG: The Interpublic-owned FutureBrand consultancy has

acquired Melbourne's FHA Image Design in line with a decision made at

last year end to develop capabilities closer to its regional

markets.

FutureBrand's move tracks similar build-ups implemented by its

expansion-minded WPP competitors, Enterprise IG (media March 30) and

Landor.

The Australian acquisition, to be renamed FutureBrand FHA, created the

branding for the Sydney 2000 Olympics and the Paralympic Games, said

FutureBrand managing director, Asia-Pacific, Matthew de Villiers. He

said the consultancy, which previously executed assignments out of its

New York and London offices, intended "to build complete FutureBrand

offices" where it expands.

Meanwhile, Landor president and chief operating officer Craig Branigan

said China's imminent WTO membership had encouraged the company to set

up a representative office in Shanghai.

Landor Asia-Pacific managing director Michael Ip said: "The growth has

been almost overnight. In 1998, we did minimal work in China, but in

1999 and 2000, business just shot up."

Branigan said Landor now derived a quarter of its regional revenues from

China, where it counts Kelon and Midea as clients.