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.
