Wella splits from BBDO after review
Wella, the German haircare giant, has parted company with BBDO Hamburg following a review of its global advertising account.
Wella has handed it to Hamburg-based agency, Jung von Matt, following a three-way pitch which also incorporated Springer Jacoby.
The decision threatens the security of BBDO’s British affiliates, including Abbott Mead Vickers, Drum PHD and Clarke Hooper, which together manage 12m worth of local business.
According to Robert Bartlett, UK executive director consumer products, the handling of local business is still under review. Local Wella brands include Silvikrin and Vosene.
He says: “Further to the announcement from Wella AG on the decision to change its lead creative advertising agency, as yet we are unable to confirm the likelihood or nature of any impact on marketing activity in the UK.”
The decision will also affect Drum PHD’s handling of the company’s sponsorship, which has included Baywatch and Friends in the past.
It is believed that New PHD will continue to handle the company’s media account.
Bartlett says the review was initiated because BBDO’s contract was coming to a close and the company wanted a fresh approach to advertising.
