Leo Burnett beats Fallon to £10m Virgin Energy account

Leo Burnett has won the &£10m Virgin Energy creative account following a two-way pitch against Fallon.

Virgin Energy is poised to launch its online utilities service later this year following a tie-up with London Electricity, which will supply gas and electricity to customers.

Manning Gottlieb Media is believed to have won the media account. MGM already handles the npower account, worth up to &£20m, and is understood to be in discussions with both companies about accommodating the two accounts.

Virgin Energy marketing director Gary Tubb says: “Leo Burnett demonstrated a deep understanding of the brand and an excellent strategic awareness.”

Burnett will be responsible for launching the Virgin Energy brand in an off-line campaign.

Virgin Energy operates under its umbrella home website Virgin Home Services, which is headed by managing director Jon Kinsey, formerly director of marketing and strategy at Centrica’s British Gas Trading.

Virgin is entering the utilities market as other power companies, such as npower, ScottishPower and Centrica, expand into home services such as gas and electric repairs, home insurance and security.

Virgin is expected to consider expanding into telecoms and home services following the launch of its gas and electricity package.

Virgin Energy’s website gives customers the chance to register for information and offers comments on the utilities market.