Australia’s biggest digital agency DT is being rebadged as AKQA, giving WPP’s flagship digital agency AKQA a big presence in Australia and New Zealand for the first time.
DT was owned by holding company STW which was bought by WPP a few years ago.
DT CEO Brian Vella (below with AKQA founder Ajaz Ahmed) will stay will on as CEO. The deal appears to have been driven by AKQA’s win of Ptus, Australia’s biggest mobile and broadband operator. Vella says: “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. AKQA has always been an inspiration to so many, redefining the industry through influential work time and time again.”
AKQA CEO Ahmed says: “In a world where digital is everywhere, AKQA’s passion is a thoughtful, considered and intelligent brand experience at every connection. 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.”
WPP bought a majority stake in AKQA, founded back in 2001, four years ago in a deal valuing the digital agency at £350m. AKQA already had a network, founded, as with Wieden+Kennedy, largely on international Nike business. So far the partnership seems to have worked well with AKQA boasting about 3000 employees across the world and now with a presence in all big national markets.
