Advertising giant WPP has bought independent digital agency AKQA for an undisclosed sum.
Founded in 2001, AKQA provides digital communications campaigns, spanning social media, mobile, interactive experiences, gaming and content creation.
Clients include Delta, Diageo, EDF, GAP, Google, Microsoft Xbox, Nike, Target, Unilever and Virgin Money and many others.
Currently employing 1,160 staff worldwide, AKQA operates through offices in the US, Europe and Asia and had gross assets of US$282 million as at December 31 2011.
Revenues are forecast to increase to around US$230 million this year from US$189 million in 2011. It has also received numerous industry awards, including 19 Agency of the Year titles, WPP said.
Commenting on the arrival of AKQA, Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO, WPP said: “We are thrilled to welcome AKQA’s unique team of technological innovators and entrepreneurs to WPP. We have admired their creativity and technological skills for a long time along with their outstandingly effective and award-winning work for clients. We are looking forward to working with Ajaz and Tom to broaden their offer and our own, both geographically and functionally. We are delighted to be united!”
AKQA will continue to operate as an independent and stand-alone brand within WPP and be led by founder and chief executive Ajaz Ahmed and Chairman Tom Bedecarré.
Other appointments to the Board of WPP Ventures will be made in due course.
“With increased resources and access to new geographies, our partnership with WPP will fuel the next level of energy, excitement and opportunity, delivering innovation and creativity at scale,” said Ajaz Ahmed.
Tom Bedecarre commented: “We are delighted to preserve AKQA’s independent culture and maintain focus on serving our clients. Today we are celebrating joining WPP and tomorrow our teams will be back to business as usual.”
