Burnett wins 30m task for global computer giant

Computer manufacturer Acer is believed to have appointed Leo Burnett to handle a global branding campaign which could be worth over 30m.

A source reveals that the Taiwanese company has appointed the agency to handle product advertising and implement a branding campaign across regions including Europe. Acer European marketing director Anita Bowles will not deny Leo Burnett has won the account, but she refuses to comment.

Global brand director Jerry Wang co-ordinated the pitch.

Acer spent 2.5m on advertising in the UK in the year to June 1998 (ACNielsen-MEAL).

The company, which has its European headquarters in Slough, Berkshire, claims to have a $6.5bn (3.9bn) worldwide turnover.

Acer extended its reach into the education market in December by signing up PC reseller Clifton Reed to push its portable products in schools and colleges throughout the UK. This long-term deal will be worth about 3m in the first year.

Acer says that the education sector will be a key market for the company this year.

In September, an agreement to buy Siemens Nixdorf’s ailing manufacturing business fell through. Acer said the main reason was its concern over the financial crisis in Asia.