Universal McCann on cusp of winning 2m VTech task

Universal McCann is poised to secure the 2m media planning and buying
business for educational toy maker VTech.

It is believed to be the only agency left in discussions with VTech,
with contract terms and conditions yet to be agreed. BJK&E and John…

Universal McCann is poised to secure the £2m media planning and buying business for educational toy maker VTech.

It is believed to be the only agency left in discussions with VTech, with contract terms and conditions yet to be agreed. BJK&E and John Ayling & Associates were involved at an earlier stage.

The review began in November last year and was led by VTech managing director Andrew Dixon and marketing director Katy Chan (MW November 9, 2006).

VTech insisted at the time that it would not be reviewing the business, which was handled by incumbent Starcom Mediavest, although a number of agencies were known to have been contacted. It is not known if Starcom Mediavest was invited to repitch.

VTech makes and markets a range of educational toys and computer games for young children, such as the V.Smile Learning System console and the handheld V.Smile pocket. They are aimed at children aged from three to seven years old, while a V.Smile Baby "infant development system" allows babies from nine to 36 months to learn through interacting with television.

It uses creative work produced by Bitch Productions. Previously, it worked with TBWA/London on a global basis. The creative account is unaffected by the media review.

VTech insists no decision has been made, although sources close to the agency say an announcement is expected later this week. None of the agencies involved were able to comment.