WPP agencies MediaCom, Media Insight to merge

WPP agencies MediaCom and Media Insight are to merge under the MediaCom brand. The decision will see the creation of a larger media network with combined operations in Beirut, Riyadh, Casablanca and the headquarters in Dubai.

It is understood that WPP aims to rationalise and consolidate its portfolio of media agencies across the Mena region focusing on MediaCom. The new MediaCom will enjoy a shared portfolio that will include Nestle, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Volkswagen Audi Group, P&G, Shell, Aujan, Turkish Airlines, etc.

Eric Hanna, formerly Grey Group's Mena COO, will now lead the MediaCom Mena network from Dubai, reporting directly to Nick Lawson, MediaCom's London-based Emea CEO. Hanna said: "Leading MediaCom and supporting the seamless merging of two WPP agencies in the region is a challenge, one I am really excited to take on. The two teams are a solid match in terms of skill set and outlook. Everyone in the region is ready to leverage the power of MediaCom globally to offer clients differentiating media solutions that help build their brands and business."

Lawson added: "The Mena has shown real resilience over the past year or two making it strategically important for our global operation and a focus for further investment. It was imperative that we identified the right person for the job and in Eric Hanna, we believe we have."

Clarification

The article on June 23 with the title Nestle Middle East partners with Howcast media, should have read as: "Nestlé Middle East has partnered with Howcast Media to provide

how-to videos relevant to the health and lifestyle needs of consumers in the region. Howcast will localise its instructional lifestyle content into Arabic and integrate the content into Nestle's regional site."

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