Hong Kong Tourist Board to review 46m ad business

The Hong Kong Tourist Board (HKTB) has called a review of its 46m global advertising account. The incumbent agency, DraftFCB, is not repitching.

The Hong Kong Tourist Board (HKTB) has called a review of its £46m global advertising account. The incumbent agency, DraftFCB, is not repitching.

Euro RSCG, Ogilvy & Mather, Publicis, Saatchi & Saatchi, DDB Worldwide and Grey are believed to be on the shortlist, and will pitch for the business next month.The review is being handled by the tourism body’s head office in Hong Kong.

Agencies had been given until February 28 to respond to the HKTB tender. The body is looking for a global network to handle the brief.

DraftFCB resigned the business after eight years following a reshuffle at HKTB. It is understood that global networks, Leo Burnett, JWT and BBDO declined to pitch for the account.

The body’s strategy for 2008 will focus on promoting the destination in conjunction with this year’s Beijing Olympics. Hong Kong is to host the equestrian events and has highlighted seven markets, including the UK, that it will target.

HKTB is also eager to overcome the perception that Hong Kong is simply a city stop-off between flights – at present the average length of stay for visitors is just three days.

Hong Kong is attempting to establish itself as a cruise hub and is in the process of developing a cruise terminal in Kowloon.

HKTB has offices in several countries, including the UK.

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