Brand experience agency, AKQA is expanding in Australia and Asia. The agency has joined forces with creative technology company DT, which works with clients including Bunnings, Optus, Bupa and Tourism Australia. The partnership is a part of AKQA’s strategy to meet client demand globally. In the last 18 months, AKQA has added more than 300 new employees by opening locations including Italy, Brazil, Sweden and UK.
The partnership aims “to architect and create the future for brands across the Asia Pacific region.”
WPP Australia and New Zealand CEO Michael Connaghan, who oversees over 80 agencies in the region, sums up the potential of the new partnership: “Combining the cultural influence, core values and global calibre of AKQA with the capability and coverage of DT represents an extraordinary platform to create the world-leading brand experience agency.”
After adding DT’s 220 employees from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland and Singapore, AKQA will now have 2,000 employees in 21 studios across the USA, Europe, Asia and Australasia.
Ajaz Ahmed, AKQA’s CEO said: “In a world where digital is everywhere, AKQA’s passion is a thoughtful, considered and intelligent brand experience at every connection,” Ajaz Ahmed, AKQA’s CEO said, in a statement. “DT’s talent and track record will strengthen the AKQA community and enhance our combined purpose to partner with progressive clients to define and deliver a better future together.”
Brian Vella, CEO of DT will continue to lead the company and join the AKQA Executive Team.
“We take pride that DT’s most recent year broke all previous records. As we look ahead to the next chapter in our journey we will now provide our clients and team with access to the global stage alongside AKQA, a globally admired partner that shares our vision,” Vella added. “AKQA has always been an inspiration to so many, redefining the industry through influential work time and time again.”
