IOC hunts for agency ahead of 2012

The International Olympics Committee (IOC) is looking for an agency to promote the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It is understood the IOC kicked off the tender process last week.

It has approached about 12 agencies and networks about the account, which is understood to be worth £60m. The organisation plans to shortlist four to six networks and agencies before the end of this year and the pitches will be held in early 2007.

It is thought that the brief will be to create an integrated global marketing and communications campaign. It is expected to include TV, direct marketing as well as digital and experience work It mirrors adverts created in the run-up to the 2004 Athens Games, which were created by Saatchi & Saatchi.