ZenithOptimedia launches new global media network

Blue 449 to further develop "new and innovative" approaches to communications

ZenithOptimedia is launching a new global media network in an attempt to drive business growth and further develop what it describes as “new and innovative” approaches to marketing communications.

Blue 449 will have its global headquarters at the former Walker Media office in London, with a total of 17 offices around the world by the end of the year. The rollout will begin in Europe and North America, followed by Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

In a release, ZenithOptimedia said Blue 449 can offer solutions to clients in all global markets by utilizing existing ZenithOptimedia resources. “The world doesn’t need yet another global media agency. What it needs is a new force of energy for clients looking to break with traditions,” said global CEO Steve King, in a release. “Blue 449 is a realization of visionary attitudes and thinking set to disrupt the market.”

Blue 449 (the name references the wavelength of the colour between ZenithOptimedia’s blue and Walker Media’s purple) will work in tandem with other ZenithOptimedia brands including Zenith; Optimedia; digital performance agency Performics; branded content and experience division Newcast; digital agency Moxie and consultancy Ninah.

The new network will also have full access to the range of services within Publicis Groupe and VivaKi, utilizing a new framework the company has dubbed “Open Source.” This approach will also inform Blue 449’s relationships with media, technology and creative partners.

Sébastien Danet, global managing partner of ZenithOptimedia and chairman of VivaKi France has been appointed Blue 449’s global chairman, while James Shoreland has been promoted to global managing director from his previous role as EVP, director of corporate development at ZenithOptimedia US. The two men will be joined by UK chairman Phil Georgiadis and other members of ZenithOptimedia’s global leadership team.

ZenithOptimedia purchased a majority stake in Walker Media, at the time the United Kingdom’s largest independent media services firm, for £36m cash in late 2013.

ZenithOptimedia was ranked the third largest network in RECMA’s most recent “Overall Activity Rankings” report, with global activity of US$36.1 billion in 2013, accounting for approximately 9.6% of total activity.

 

Add a comment

You must be to comment.

Media Articles

30 Under 30 is back with a new name, new outlook

No more age limit! The New Establishment brings 30 Under 30 in a new direction, starting with media professionals.

As Prime Minister, Kellie Leitch would scrap CBC

Tory leadership hopefuls are outlining their views on national broadcaster's future

‘Your Morning’ embarks on first travel partnership

Sponsored giveaway supported by social posts directed at female-skewing audience

KitchenAid embraces social for breast cancer campaign

Annual charitable campaign taps influencers and the social web for the first time

Netflix debates contributions with Canadian Heritage

Netflix remains wary of regulation as some tout 'Anne' and 'Alias Grace' partnerships

Canadians warm up to social commerce

PayPal and Ipsos research shows "Shop Now" buttons are gaining traction

Online ad exchange AppNexus cuts off Breitbart

Popular online ad exchange bans site for violating hate speech policy

Robert Jenkyn is back at Media Experts

Former Microsoft and Globe and Mail exec returns to the agency world

2016 Media Innovation Awards: The complete winners list

All the winning agencies from media's biggest night out!