Lee Stephens (pictured), CEO Aegis Media Pacific, announced: “There has been a great deal of speculation around the launch of Vizeum, however the key for us has been to match the needs of the market and the strengths of Vizeum globally. We have achieved this and are ready to commence trading with over A$30 million (US$24 million) in local billings.”
Founded by Martyn Thomas in 2000, FRANk media is an independent communication strategy company. The agency will be rebranded FRANkVizeum and the agency’s 16 clients and 10 staff will be integrated into the new agency.
Current clients include seek.com..au, STA Travel, carsales.com.au, Tireworld, wotif.com, Vileda, i-mate and kidspot.com.au.
Thomas said: “There were a number of players who have spoken to us in recent months and Vizeum provides by far the best fit. Vizeum carries a fresh perspective which has helped it become one of the fastest growing global media brands.”
Vizeum also has an office and a dedicated team in Sydney to support current and new clients as well as to co-ordinate several international pitches in which the agency is currently participating.
Vizeum Sydney will launch with long-term client Bayer, which has been with Carat for the past ten years. The agency also announced a new client, luxury glassware company Riedel, and is in the process of pitching for three new pieces of business.
Patrick Stahle, chairman and CEO Aegis Media Asia-Pacific, added: “The launch of Vizeum in Australia will significantly boost our presence and the network’s offering in the region.”
At the start of June, Aegis Media rolled out Vizeum in India.