WPP loses Ford’s creative account to BBDO after 75 years
In a huge loss for WPP, BBDO has won the global creative account for car manufacturer Ford.
WPP initially won the Ford account 75 years ago and subsequently created dedicated Ford Motors agencies which rebranded from Team Detroit, Blue Hive and Retail First to Global Team Blue (GTB), in 2016.
JWT’s relationship with Ford is among the longest in advertising history, with the agency winning the account in 1943
The advertising and communications holding group was put on notice in April when Ford launched a global review of its creative agencies.
JWT’s relationship with Ford is among the longest in advertising history, with the agency winning the account in 1943
In Australia, Ford works with WPP’s dedicated bespoke Ford Motors agency, GTB, but the brand also works with Channel T.
A spokesperson from WPP, said in a statement: “Over the past five months, WPP has been working with Ford Motor Company on its future marketing and advertising relationships. At the conclusion of the review, WPP will be responsible for activating the Ford brand through key channels and regions, through its global Ford agency GTB as well as other WPP agencies, while Ford has appointed another agency as its lead creative agency.
“WPP agencies will continue to handle activation, including media planning and buying, digital and production. These responsibilities also include Tier Two advertising work in the U.S., the
China advertising operations with its joint venture partner, all Lincoln advertising, and all the Ford public relations business.
“WPP will work closely with Ford on the shape of its future relationship and the impact on its people.”
Meanwhile in August, Clemenger BBDO Melbourne won the creative account for rival car manufacturer BMW, which may be a conflict with a Ford.
Mumbrella has approached WPP AUNZ and BBDO Australia for the local implications of the global announcement.
Linkedin
I don’t often revel in adland schadenfreude, but this one is a long time coming. Ridiculous set up, squeezing the life out of the brand and everyone who worked on it, producing globalised vanilla and beige.
WPP treated it like a cash cow, and used its “bespoke” operations as the recycling station for the refuse of their beleaguered talent culled from elsewhere.
I shall have a drink.
User ID not verified.
Wow. That’s a crippling blow.
User ID not verified.
They had the account for 75 years!
What’s to complain about?
User ID not verified.